© Original recipe by The Culinary Delight ©
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta 🍗🧄🧀
1. Introduction
If you’re craving a comforting and flavorful dish, look no further than these delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta. This recipe combines tender chicken pieces coated in a rich garlic butter sauce with a velvety, cheesy pasta that will satisfy your cravings. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a special occasion, this dish is easy to prepare and packed with irresistible flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a cooking novice, you’ll love how quick and delicious this meal turns out.
2. Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your favorite)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
3. How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Step 1: Prepare the pasta
Cook your preferred pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. To infuse more flavor, consider adding a bit of salt to the water during boiling.
Step 2: Cook the chicken bites
Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-8 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the garlic butter sauce
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium, and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 4: Prepare the creamy Parmesan sauce
Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Bring to a gentle simmer, then add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine the chicken and pasta
Add the cooked chicken bites back into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss to coat evenly. Incorporate cooked pasta directly into the sauce, tossing gently to combine. Heat everything through for 2-3 minutes.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, reheat the dish gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
5. Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. For added flavor, sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese or freshly chopped parsley on top. Consider drizzling with a bit of balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness.
6. Tips and Variations
- For a healthier twist, substitute with whole wheat pasta or zucchini noodles.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic.
- For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to enrich the flavor profile.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work great , just ensure they are evenly cooked and tender. Thighs tend to be juicier and more forgiving during cooking.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
From start to finish, it takes about 30 minutes to prepare Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta, making it perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, but note that the sauce may thicken upon refrigeration. To serve later, reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore its creamy texture.
What are suitable substitutions for heavy cream?
You can substitute with half-and-half, evaporated milk, or cashew cream for a lighter or dairy-free version. Keep in mind that these alternatives may alter the richness slightly.
8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set – Make cooking and cleanup easier with durable nonstick cookware.
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer by Amazon Basics – Perfect for quick, crispy chicken bites or reheating leftovers.
- Philips 7000 Series Pasta Maker with 8 Shaping Discs – Elevate your pasta game by making fresh pasta at home.
- KitchenAid Classic Iconic Stand Mixer – Mix ingredients effortlessly for perfect textures.
Investing in quality kitchen tools can significantly improve your cooking experience, making tasks easier and boosting your confidence in the kitchen.
9. Conclusion
Indulge in the rich, comforting flavors of Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta. This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, combining succulent chicken, savory garlic butter, and luscious parmesan sauce on perfectly cooked pasta. With a straightforward preparation process and versatile ingredients, this dish is an excellent addition to your weeknight dinner lineup or for entertaining guests. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to customize it to your taste with your favorite ingredients or dietary adjustments!
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Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
A rich and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken bites coated in garlic butter accompanied by creamy parmesan pasta.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 8 oz pasta (e.g., fettuccine)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add chicken bites, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and cooked through.
- Stir in heavy cream and parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Combine cooked pasta with the sauce, toss to coat evenly.
- Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use freshly grated parmesan for best flavor.
- Replace heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stove-top
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 520 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 110mg