Description
If you’re craving a quick and flavorful dinner, this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a must-try! Juicy, golden-brown chicken bites tossed in garlic butter, served over rich and creamy parmesan pasta—it’s the ultimate comfort meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes!
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Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (1 lb, cut into bite-sized pieces) – Lean and tender.
- Salt & Black Pepper (to taste) – Enhances the flavor.
- Garlic Powder (½ tsp) – Adds extra garlicky goodness.
- Paprika (½ tsp) – Gives a slight smoky flavor.
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp) – For searing the chicken.
- Unsalted Butter (3 tbsp) – For rich garlic butter flavor.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – The star of the dish.
- Red Pepper Flakes (½ tsp, optional) – For a little heat.
- Fresh Parsley (2 tbsp, chopped, for garnish) – Adds freshness.
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- Pasta (8 oz, fettuccine or penne) – A perfect base for the sauce.
- Butter (2 tbsp) – Adds richness.
- Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Creates a luscious sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese (1 cup, grated) – The key to a creamy and cheesy sauce.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Infuses the sauce with flavor.
- Salt & Black Pepper (to taste) – Balances the dish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for the sauce.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken Bites
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken in a single layer and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet.
- Reduce heat to medium, add butter and garlic, and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, toss in the garlic butter, and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly.
- Add the parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and black pepper. Add reserved pasta water if needed for consistency.
Step 4: Combine & Serve
- Toss the cooked pasta in the creamy parmesan sauce.
- Plate the pasta and top with the garlic butter chicken bites.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of parmesan.
Notes
- Use Fresh Parmesan – It melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken – Keep it juicy by cooking until just done.
- Reserve Pasta Water – It helps thin out and emulsify the sauce.
- Add More Flavor – Try a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of Italian seasoning!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired