Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Pasta

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Pasta: A Deliciously Savory Feast 🍗🧄🥘

1. Introduction

Experience the irresistible combination of garlic butter chicken paired with rich and velvety creamy pasta. This flavorful recipe for chicken bites is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. The juicy, tender pieces of garlic butter chicken are cooked to perfection and served alongside a luscious, cream-infused pasta that will satisfy every craving. Whether you are a garlic lover or enjoy tender chicken bites, this dish combines bold flavors with comforting textures for a memorable culinary experience.

2. Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Pasta

  • 500g boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chicken bites
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 200ml heavy cream
  • 250g pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Olive oil (for cooking)

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Garlic Butter Chicken and Creamy Pasta

Preparation of the Chicken Bites

Start by seasoning the chicken bites with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken bites and cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Making the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to low and add the butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the cooked chicken bites back into the skillet to coat them evenly with the garlic butter sauce.

Cooking the Creamy Pasta

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, and cook your chosen pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about half a cup of pasta water.

Combining the Dish

Add the heavy cream to the skillet with the garlic butter and chicken bites. Mix well, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Adjust the sauce’s consistency by adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed. Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, ensuring it is well coated with the creamy sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant touch.

4. Storage Tips for Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Pasta

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess. For best results, keep the garlic butter chicken and pasta separate if possible, to prevent the pasta from becoming overly soft.

5. Serving Suggestions for the Perfect Meal

Serve this delightful garlic butter chicken with creamy pasta hot, garnished with extra parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Pair with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete, balanced meal. For an extra flavor boost, consider pairing it with a crisp white wine, such as Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker or CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set, to enhance your dining experience.

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Garlic Butter Chicken and Creamy Pasta

What is the best way to make the garlic butter chicken tender?

To ensure tender garlic butter chicken bites, cook the chicken just until fully cooked and avoid overcooking, which can make the meat dry. Marinating the chicken in some olive oil, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking can also enhance tenderness and flavor.

Can I use other types of pasta for this dish?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fettuccine, or gluten-free options. The key is to select a pasta that holds the creamy sauce well, ensuring a flavorful bite in each forkful. For inspiration, check out this tomato ricotta pasta recipe.

How do I keep the garlic butter chicken from becoming too greasy?

Using a moderate amount of butter and cooking the chicken over medium heat helps prevent excess greasiness. Draining any excess oil after cooking the chicken can also help keep the dish light and balanced.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or dairy-free alternatives like cashew cream. Use dairy-free butter or olive oil instead of butter. The flavor will differ slightly but will still be delicious.

7. Final Tips for the Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Pasta

For a more robust flavor, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of spice. Fresh herbs like thyme or basil can also elevate the dish. Remember, the key to perfect garlic butter chicken is to cook the chicken evenly and ensure the sauce is rich and luscious.

8. Why This Dish Is a Must-Try

This recipe beautifully combines garlic butter chicken and creamy pasta in a way that is satisfying and effortless to prepare. It’s perfect for those craving bold flavors, tender chicken bites, and creamy textures all in one dish. Plus, it adapts easily to dietary preferences and ingredient availability. For more dinner ideas, explore our popular dinner recipes.

9. Conclusion

If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal, this garlic butter chicken with creamy pasta dish is the ideal choice. With its rich garlic-infused sauce and tender chicken bites, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Customize it with your favorite herbs or spice level for a truly personalized culinary creation. For kitchen gadgets that can help streamline your cooking, check out the Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1 or the Ninja Smart Double Oven with FlexDoor Technology.

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Delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Bites served alongside creamy, tender pasta with garlic herbs and parsley.

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Pasta

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Indulge in the rich flavors of Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Pasta, a quick and savory meal perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Juicy chicken pieces glazed in garlic butter are served alongside velvety creamy pasta for a satisfying dining experience.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 500g boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chicken bites
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 200ml heavy cream
  • 250g pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Olive oil (for cooking)

Instructions

  1. Start by seasoning the chicken bites with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, reduce heat to low, add butter, and stir in minced garlic. Cook 1 minute until fragrant. Return chicken to coat evenly with garlic butter.
  3. Meanwhile, boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente. Drain, reserving half a cup of pasta water.
  4. Add heavy cream to the skillet with garlic butter and chicken. Mix well, then stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Adjust sauce with reserved pasta water if needed.
  5. Combine cooked pasta with the sauce and chicken. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Notes

  • You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut or cashew cream and butter with dairy-free alternatives.
  • Adding red pepper flakes gives a spicy kick, and fresh herbs like basil or thyme enhance flavor.
  • Author: Serena Miller
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten-Free options can be added

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 580 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 35g
  • Saturated Fat: 20g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg

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