If you’re looking for a flavorful, comforting meal that’s simple to make yet packed with rich, savory flavors, this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is just the recipe for you. Crispy, tender chicken bites tossed in a buttery garlic sauce, served with creamy, cheesy pasta — it’s a match made in heaven that’ll please everyone at the dinner table.
Let me guide you through this delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.
- Full of flavor: The garlic butter sauce and creamy Parmesan pasta come together for a flavor explosion.
- Comforting: This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or date night.
- Kid-friendly: The chicken bites and creamy pasta are a hit with both kids and adults.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
Here’s what you’ll need for this flavorful meal:
For the Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized cubes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons butter (for the garlic butter sauce)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional, for extra flavor)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, spaghetti, or your favorite pasta)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour (for thickening)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Step 1: Cook the pasta.
Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, saving a little pasta water in case you need to thin out the sauce later.
Step 2: Prepare the chicken.
While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken cubes with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the garlic butter sauce.
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. If using, sprinkle in the dried thyme and stir.
Step 4: Make the creamy Parmesan sauce.
Add the flour to the skillet and stir constantly for 1 minute to create a roux. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking to combine. Add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine and serve.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy Parmesan sauce, tossing to coat. Add the garlic butter chicken bites and stir until everything is well mixed and heated through.
Step 6: Garnish and serve.
Serve the garlic butter chicken bites with creamy Parmesan pasta in bowls or on plates, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Pro Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- Use fresh garlic: Fresh garlic gives the garlic butter sauce a rich, vibrant flavor.
- Thicken the sauce: If your creamy sauce is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken up, or add a splash of pasta water.
- Substitute cream: If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk.
- Flavor variations: Try adding a squeeze of lemon juice to the sauce for a fresh, zesty kick.
- Make it extra cheesy: Don’t be afraid to add more Parmesan cheese to the sauce for a cheesy, indulgent dish.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
This meal is a complete dinner on its own, but you can serve it with:
- A side salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta.
- Garlic bread: Perfect for mopping up any leftover creamy sauce.
- Roasted vegetables: Serve with roasted broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini for a healthy side.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Here’s an estimate for one serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: ~550
- Protein: ~35g
- Carbs: ~50g
- Fat: ~25g
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of milk or cream to rehydrate the sauce.
- Freezing: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the chicken and sauce separately for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the kind of dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for when you want to treat yourself to something comforting yet easy to prepare.
I hope you enjoy this delicious recipe! Let me know how it turns out, and feel free to share your variations. Happy cooking!
Hi, I’m Emma Collins, a 24-year-old mom of two daughters and a little boy who keeps life full of energy. Cooking is my passion and my way of bringing my family together. Whether I’m experimenting with new recipes or perfecting old favorites, I love making meals that are simple, delicious, and full of love. As a busy mom, I’ve learned how to keep things quick and easy without sacrificing flavor. I’m excited to share my recipes and tips with you, hoping they inspire you to create memorable moments in your own kitchen with your loved ones.