Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Introduction

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a quick and indulgent meal that combines tender chicken bites, rich garlic butter sauce, and creamy Parmesan pasta. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a special occasion, this dish is bursting with flavor and guaranteed to please.

Why Make This Recipe

Flavor-Packed

This recipe features juicy, golden chicken bites coated in garlic butter, paired with pasta tossed in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce.

Quick and Easy

Ready in just 30 minutes, this is a hassle-free meal for busy nights.

Family Favorite

With a rich and creamy texture and bold garlic flavors, this dish is loved by kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Bites:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

  • 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup pasta water (reserved from cooking the pasta)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Bites

  1. Season the chicken pieces with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Reduce heat to medium, add the butter and minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Toss the cooked chicken back into the skillet to coat in the garlic butter sauce. Remove from heat and cover to keep warm.

2. Cook the Pasta

  1. Boil the pasta according to package instructions in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining.

3. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

  1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and sauté minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
  3. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and whisk until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
  4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

4. Combine and Serve

  1. Toss the cooked pasta in the Parmesan cream sauce until evenly coated.
  2. Plate the pasta and top with garlic butter chicken bites.
  3. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Pro Tips

  1. Even Cooking: Cut the chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
  2. Save Pasta Water: Reserved pasta water helps adjust the sauce’s consistency.
  3. Fresh Parmesan: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.

Customizations & Variations

  • Add Vegetables: Stir in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition.
  • Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a bit of heat.
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

FAQs

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
A: Yes, chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, but cook the pasta fresh before serving.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce.

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