These garlic butter chicken bites are juicy and packed with flavor! They’re quick to cook and pair perfectly with creamy parmesan pasta that makes every bite feel like a special treat.
Who doesn’t love a meal that tastes like it took hours to make but is ready in no time? I often find myself going back for seconds (or thirds) because it’s just that good!
The best part is how easily everything comes together. Just sauté the chicken and whip up the pasta; dinner is served! Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless chicken breasts are the go-to for this dish as they cook quickly and remain juicy. If you prefer, you can use thighs for more flavor or even diced tofu for a vegetarian option.
Butter: Unsalted butter is used to control the salt level in your dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute half with olive oil or use plant-based butter.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic really enhances the flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder can work too, though I recommend using fresh for the best taste.
Pasta: Fettuccine is great for holding the creamy sauce, but spaghetti or any pasta can work in a pinch. If you’re gluten-free, try brown rice pasta or zucchini noodles.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a savory kick. If you need a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast gives a similar cheesy flavor.
How Do I Perfectly Cook Chicken Bites?
Cooking the chicken bites perfectly is key to this dish. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with evenly cut pieces to ensure they cook in the same time.
- Use medium-high heat to achieve that nice golden brown on the outside without overcooking inside.
- Don’t crowd the pan, as this can steam the chicken instead of browning it. Cook in batches if necessary.
Lastly, let the chicken rest for a minute before plating; this keeps them juicy. Enjoy your chicken bites with all their flavor!
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:
- 1 pound boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 ounces fettuccine or spaghetti
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You will need about 30 minutes to prepare this delightful dish. This includes around 10 minutes for prep work, 15 minutes for cooking, and 5 minutes for plating. It’s quick, easy, and simply delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the fettuccine or spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (tender but firm to the bite). After cooking, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until you can smell its amazing aroma. Now, season your bite-sized chicken pieces with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Carefully add the seasoned chicken to the skillet, cooking for about 4-5 minutes or until the pieces are golden brown and fully cooked. Pour in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and stir to coat the chicken thoroughly. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
In a separate saucepan over medium heat, pour in the heavy cream and mix in the garlic powder. Stir the mixture continuously until it starts to simmer, which should take just a couple of minutes. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring, until it melts and forms a smooth sauce. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
4. Combine Everything:
Now that you have your pasta and sauce ready, it’s time to mix them! Add the cooked pasta to the saucepan with the creamy Parmesan sauce, tossing gently to make sure all the pasta is well coated.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Carefully plate the creamy pasta and top it with the tasty garlic butter chicken bites. To finish off, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top and add extra Parmesan cheese if you’d like. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you like, such as penne, rotini, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in individual portions or warm gently on the stovetop. If the sauce thickens, you can add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it up!
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream in the Sauce?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a cream alternative like coconut cream for a different flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use milk, but the sauce may not be as creamy. If using milk, consider adding a bit of flour to thicken it.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add sautéed vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. You can cook them in the same skillet after the chicken for added convenience!
