Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Delight 🍗🧄🧀
1. Introduction
Looking for an easy chicken pasta recipe that combines tender garlic butter chicken with rich, creamy parmesan pasta? This flavorful dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave comfort food with a gourmet touch. The combination of succulent garlic butter chicken bites and luscious parmesan-infused pasta creates an irresistible meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re preparing a quick dinner or impressing guests, this recipe offers a perfect balance of savory flavors and creamy textures.
2. Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or dried thyme and oregano)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 12 oz (340g) of your favorite pasta (fettuccine, penne, or linguine)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Chopped parsley and extra parmesan for garnish
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Preparing the Chicken Bites
Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken
Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing it to coat in the garlic butter sauce. Keep warm while preparing the pasta.
Cooking the Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Cook your preferred pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over low-medium heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Combine the cooked pasta into the sauce, tossing well to coat evenly.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
Transfer the creamy pasta to serving bowls and top with garlic butter chicken bites. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired for a gourmet presentation.
4. Storage Tips for Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to restore creaminess. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the creamy pasta may change after thawing.
5. Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Chicken and Creamy Parmesan Pasta
This dish is perfect as a standalone main course. For added variety, serve alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables. You can also pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal. For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle with red pepper flakes or fresh basil.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu?
Absolutely! Shrimp cooks quickly and adds a seafood twist, while tofu makes this dish suitable for vegetarians. Adjust cooking times accordingly and ensure the protein is cooked thoroughly.
What are some variations of this recipe?
You can add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture. Using different cheeses like Asiago or Pecorino can also change the flavor profile.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
The entire process takes approximately 30 minutes, making it an easy chicken pasta recipe perfect for busy evenings.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
To make your cooking experience effortless, consider using these essential tools:
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer — Even though air fryers are not required for this dish, they are fantastic for quick side dishes or reheating leftovers to keep them crispy.
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set — A reliable cookware set ensures easy cooking and cleanup, making this easy chicken pasta recipe even more enjoyable.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer — For grilled vegetables or chicken, this versatile tool expands your recipe options.
- Cuisinart 2-Quart Stainless Steel Ice Cream Maker — For a delightful dessert, try serving ice cream alongside this pasta dish.
8. Conclusion
This easy chicken pasta recipe with garlic butter chicken bites and creamy parmesan sauce balances delicious flavors with minimal effort. It’s ideal for weeknights and special occasions alike, delivering a satisfying meal in just about 30 minutes. Experiment with optional add-ins or spice levels to tailor the dish to your taste buds. Enjoy crafting this flavorful and comforting dinner that the whole family will adore!
Print
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Delight
Juicy chicken bites cooked in garlic butter, complemented by a luscious parmesan cream sauce over al dente pasta for a satisfying meal.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bites
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add chicken bites, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through.
- Pour in heavy cream, bring to a simmer, then stir in parmesan cheese until melted and sauce thickens.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet, toss to coat evenly with the sauce.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or lemon zest.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free option available
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 550 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 150mg