These creamy garlic butter chicken bites are perfect for a cozy dinner! Juicy chicken cooked in rich garlic butter and served with tasty Parmesan pasta makes every bite a delight.
Honestly, who can resist that creamy sauce? I always find myself sneaking extra bites of pasta, and hey, it’s totally worth it! 🍝 What’s great is it’s easy to whip up for any night.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey breast is a nice substitute! If you’re vegetarian, try using diced tofu or cauliflower instead.
Butter: Unsalted butter builds a great base for flavor. If you’re dairy-free, vegan butter or olive oil can work well too. Just remember it might change the final taste a little!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for the most robust flavor. If you’re short on fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder, but reduce the amount since it’s more concentrated.
Pasta: Any pasta you have on hand will do! I love using fettuccine for its silky texture, but penne or even spiral pasta works great too. Gluten-free pasta is a fantastic substitute for those with dietary restrictions.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated gives the best flavor and melts beautifully. If you can’t find Parmesan, Pecorino Romano is a great alternative, or nutritional yeast for a vegan version.
How Do I Get the Chicken Just Right?
Cooking the chicken properly is essential for tender bites. Here are some tips:
- Start with medium-high heat for a nice sear. This locks in the juices and adds flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary to get each piece nicely browned.
- Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be fully cooked.
- Let it rest for a couple of minutes after cooking for juicier bites!
How Do I Make the Sauce Ultra Creamy?
To achieve that rich creamy sauce, follow these steps:
- Cook garlic in butter carefully; don’t brown it as it can taste bitter.
- Add heavy cream gradually while stirring to combine smoothly. Allow it to simmer so it thickens properly.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese slowly. This keeps the sauce smooth and prevents clumping.
- If the sauce seems too thick, just add a splash of pasta cooking water to loosen it up!
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning or mixed herbs
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for slight heat)
For the Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 oz (225g) pasta of your choice (fettuccine, linguine, or penne)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and cooking the pasta and chicken, and the rest of the time is for making that luscious creamy garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. You want it ready to toss with your creamy sauce later!
2. Cook the Chicken Bites:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant—be careful not to let it brown. Now, toss in the chicken pieces and season them with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and the optional red pepper flakes. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (check that it reaches 165°F or 75°C). Set the chicken aside in a bowl.
3. Make the Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce:
Using the same skillet (to keep that garlic flavor!), melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add in 3 more cloves of minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. Then, slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Let the cream simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
4. Add the Cheese and Combine:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts completely into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste—the creaminess should balance well with the flavors! If it seems too thick, you can add a splash of pasta water. Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss everything together, making sure the chicken is well coated in that delicious sauce. Keep this warm on low heat.
5. Prepare the Parmesan Pasta:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your drained pasta, 2 tablespoons of butter, 1/4 cup heavy cream, and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Toss gently until the pasta is fully coated and creamy. If needed, add seasoning of salt and pepper to enhance the taste!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to serve! Plate generous portions of the creamy Parmesan pasta topped with those savory garlic butter chicken bites. Don’t forget to garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if you like. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Parmesan Pasta immediately while it’s warm and comforting!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it’s completely thawed before cooking. The best way to thaw chicken is overnight in the fridge or by placing it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels before cooking for the best texture.
What Pasta Works Best for This Recipe?
You can use any pasta you prefer! Fettuccine and linguine are great for holding the creamy sauce, but penne or even spiral pasta will work well. Feel free to use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier or dietary-friendly option.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce if it thickens too much.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time! Just cook them as directed and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce and chicken together and toss with freshly cooked pasta for the best results.
