Description
This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe combines tender, flavorful chicken pieces sautéed in rich garlic butter with a luscious, creamy Parmesan sauce tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. Ready in just 35 minutes, this comforting dish is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a special meal to impress guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Bites
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Pasta and Sauce
- 8 ounces pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining, then set the pasta aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the bite-sized chicken pieces evenly with paprika, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes if using, ensuring each piece is well coated.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown on the outside and fully cooked through.
- Add Garlic Butter to Chicken: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir well to coat the chicken in the garlic butter flavor. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to keep warm.
- Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Pour in the heavy cream, then season with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg if using. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Incorporate Parmesan: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly so that every strand or piece is evenly coated with the creamy Parmesan sauce.
- Assemble the Dish: Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta and top it generously with the garlic butter chicken bites. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Notes
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce thickness as needed.
- Use chicken thighs for more juiciness or chicken breasts for leaner protein.
- Adjust chili flakes to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder dish.
- Freshly grated Parmesan will melt better and provide more flavor than pre-grated cheese.
- This dish pairs well with a light green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Ensure not to overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
