This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe is a dream come true for anyone who loves rich, indulgent flavors combined with simple ingredients. The tender, golden-brown chicken bites come together perfectly with a creamy Parmesan sauce, making it a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this dish is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
3 tablespoons butter, divided
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
8 oz (225g) pasta of choice (e.g., fettuccine or penne)
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
First, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring everything together. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss it to coat with the creamy sauce.
Finally, add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined.
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top before serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Storage/Reheating
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but I understand if you have leftovers. If you do, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When reheating, I recommend gently reheating it in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or chicken broth to bring back the creamy texture. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, to avoid overcooking the pasta.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, absolutely! I like using fettuccine or penne, but you can swap it for any pasta shape you prefer, such as spaghetti or rotini.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute the Parmesan with Asiago or Pecorino Romano. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor profile.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can make this dish dairy-free by using a dairy-free butter alternative and substituting the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. For the cheese, use a dairy-free Parmesan-style cheese.
Can I use frozen chicken breast?
While fresh chicken breast works best, you can use frozen chicken breast. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for the best results.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, adding veggies is a great way to boost the flavor and nutrition of the dish! Consider adding spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for a delicious twist.
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a quick and easy meal that brings all the comfort and flavor you crave. With tender chicken, a rich creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it's sure to be a favorite in your household. Whether you’re cooking for a family or looking to treat yourself to something indulgent, this dish delivers every time. Plus, it’s versatile, so feel free to experiment with different pasta or cheese options. Enjoy.
Recipe:
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe is the ultimate comfort food, featuring crispy chicken bites in a rich, velvety Parmesan sauce served over tender pasta. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekend meals. With simple ingredients like chicken breast, butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, this indulgent dish will quickly become a family favorite. A creamy, savory delight that’s both quick to make and a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
3 tablespoons butter, divided
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
8 oz (225g) pasta of choice (e.g., fettuccine or penne)
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add chicken, seasoning with paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, then add minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Let simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Add cooked chicken back into the skillet, tossing to coat with the sauce.
- Add pasta and toss until combined. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
For dairy-free options, substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative in place of the heavy cream. Choose a dairy-free cheese as well.
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to the dish for added flavor and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 620 kcal
