Garlic Butter Chicken Bites With Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe

Sizzling Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe

Crispy garlic butter chicken bites dance deliciously alongside a luxurious parmesan pasta that promises pure comfort.

Tender chicken pieces nestle perfectly in a golden, buttery embrace that whispers culinary magic.

Each morsel carries robust flavors melding seamlessly with the rich, creamy sauce.

Weeknight dinners demand something spectacular, and this recipe answers that delectable call.

Home cooks seeking simplicity without sacrificing taste will adore this effortless meal.

Minimal ingredients create maximum satisfaction, ensuring everyone at the table craves seconds.

Prepare to fall in love with a dish that feels like a warm culinary hug.

Best Pairings for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Parmesan Pasta

  • Crisp Pinot Grigio complements the rich, creamy Parmesan sauce with its bright acidity, cutting through the butter and balancing the garlic's intensity.
  • Bold Belgian-style wheat beer with citrusy notes creates a delightful contrast against the chicken's savory seasoning, refreshing the palate between bites.
  • Fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette offers a zesty, peppery counterpoint to the creamy pasta, adding lightness and cutting through the dish's richness.
  • Sparkling water infused with fresh basil and mint provides a clean, herbaceous backdrop that enhances the Italian seasoning in the chicken bites.

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Parmesan Pasta Variations to Explore

  • Low-Carb Zucchini Noodle Version: Replace pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles for a lighter, keto-friendly meal that cuts carbohydrates while maintaining the rich garlic butter flavor.
  • Dairy-Free Alternative: Swap heavy cream and Parmesan cheese with coconut cream and nutritional yeast to create a creamy sauce suitable for lactose-intolerant or dairy-sensitive individuals.
  • Vegetarian Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas, seasoned similarly to maintain the original recipe's hearty texture and spice profile.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta or cauliflower rice instead of traditional wheat pasta, ensuring those with gluten sensitivities can enjoy the same delicious meal.
  • A Family-Friendly Flavor Explosion
  • Whip up this mouthwatering meal in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy families craving delicious dinner without endless kitchen time.
  • Minimal ingredients create maximum taste, combining garlic butter chicken's rich, savory notes with creamy Parmesan pasta for an irresistible combination.
  • Adjust spice levels with red pepper flakes, swap protein types, or add vegetables to make this recipe uniquely yours while maintaining its delightful core flavor profile.
  • Reduce dishes and cleanup time by preparing everything in a single pan, making this recipe a stress-free cooking experience for home chefs of all skill levels.

What You’ll Need for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Parmesan Pasta

Main Course Components:
  • Pasta, Chicken: Core protein elements for a hearty and satisfying main dish. Choose a short pasta like penne or rotini that catches the creamy sauce well.
Protein Base:
  • Chicken: Tender protein that absorbs flavors beautifully. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for even cooking and quick preparation.
Seasoning Blend:
  • Paprika, Italian Seasoning, Salt, Pepper: Classic spice combination for building rich flavor. Fresh ground black pepper provides more intense taste compared to pre-ground versions.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: Optional spicy element that adds gentle heat. Great for those who enjoy a slight kick in their meal.
Sauce Ingredients:
  • Heavy Cream, Butter, Parmesan Cheese: Creamy base that creates luxurious sauce texture. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting and flavor profile.
  • Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that provides depth and warmth. Fresh garlic cloves deliver more robust taste than pre-minced options.
Garnish:
  • Fresh Parsley: Bright finishing touch that adds color and fresh herb note. Finely chopped for best presentation and flavor distribution.
Cooking Oils:
  • Olive Oil: Helps prevent sticking and adds subtle flavor during chicken cooking process.

Guidane to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Step 1: Boil Pasta to Perfection

Grab your favorite pasta

Fill a pot with water

Add a pinch of salt

Bring water to a rolling boil

Cook pasta until tender

Drain and set aside

Step 2: Create Golden Chicken Bites

Heat skillet with olive oil and butter

Add chicken pieces

Sprinkle in:
  • Paprika
  • Italian seasoning
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Sear chicken until golden brown

Toss in minced garlic

Add red pepper flakes for extra kick

Cook until chicken is fully done

Remove chicken from skillet

Step 3: Whip Up Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Melt butter in same skillet

Add fresh garlic

Pour in heavy cream

Bring to gentle simmer

Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese

Stir until sauce becomes silky smooth

Season with salt and pepper

Step 4: Marry Pasta with Chicken

Pour pasta into creamy sauce

Toss until completely coated

Gently add chicken bites back into skillet

Stir everything together

Step 5: Serve and Savor

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley

Plate immediately

Enjoy hot and delicious

Kitchen Tips for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Parmesan Pasta

  • Boost Chicken Tenderness: Marinate chicken pieces in buttermilk or yogurt for 30 minutes before cooking to ensure maximum juiciness and flavor penetration.
  • Control Sauce Consistency: Adjust sauce thickness by adding pasta water gradually if the sauce becomes too thick, creating a silky smooth texture.
  • Enhance Flavor Depth: Toast Italian seasoning and paprika in the pan for 30 seconds before adding chicken to release deeper, more complex aromatic notes.
  • Prevent Pasta Sticking: Toss cooked pasta with a little olive oil immediately after draining to prevent clumping and ensure even sauce coating.
  • Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute regular pasta with zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta, and use cornstarch instead of flour for thickening the sauce.

Storing Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Parmesan Pasta Properly

  • Store leftover chicken and pasta in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping the dish fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Transfer cooled chicken bites and pasta to a freezer-safe container, where it can stay good for 2-3 months without losing flavor quality.
  • Warm the dish in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to restore moisture and prevent dryness.
  • When using microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to distribute heat evenly and maintain the sauce's creamy texture.
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Garlic Butter Chicken Bites With Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites With Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe


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4.6 from 26 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Succulent garlic butter chicken bites dance alongside creamy parmesan pasta in this irresistible comfort meal. Rich flavors and simple ingredients combine to create a restaurant-quality dinner you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 1.5 pounds (680 grams) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

Seasonings and Spices:

  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Fats and Aromatics:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons butter, divided
  • 8 garlic cloves, minced (4 for chicken, 4 for sauce)

Pasta and Sauce Ingredients:

  • 12 ounces (340 grams) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1.5 cups (360 milliliters) heavy cream
  • 1 cup (100 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Garnish:

  • ¼ cup (15 grams) chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and prepare pasta according to package guidelines, ensuring it reaches an ideal al dente texture. Strain the pasta and reserve to the side.
  2. Select a spacious skillet and warm olive oil with butter over medium-high temperature. Introduce chicken pieces seasoned with paprika, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
  3. Sauté the chicken, stirring periodically, until achieving a golden-brown exterior and thoroughly cooked interior, approximately 5-6 minutes. Incorporate minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes, allowing aromatics to develop for an additional 1-2 minutes.
  4. Transfer chicken to a separate plate, maintaining the flavorful skillet remnants for the upcoming sauce creation.
  5. Reduce skillet heat to medium and melt additional butter. Introduce minced garlic, allowing it to become fragrant and translucent.
  6. Stream heavy cream into the skillet, creating a luxurious base. Gently simmer while gradually whisking in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce transforms into a smooth, velvety consistency.
  7. Season the sauce with salt and pepper, adjusting to personal taste preferences.
  8. Introduce the reserved pasta into the creamy Parmesan sauce, thoroughly coating each strand with the rich mixture.
  9. Reintegrate the seared chicken bites into the pasta, gently stirring to ensure uniform distribution of flavors.
  10. Finish the dish by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley across the top, creating a vibrant and appetizing presentation. Serve immediately while piping hot.

Notes

  • Adjust pasta doneness by checking package instructions and tasting for that perfect al dente texture, ensuring a firm bite without being hard.
  • Prevent chicken from becoming tough by not overcrowding the skillet, which allows proper browning and maintains juicy, tender meat.
  • Create a gluten-free version by substituting regular pasta with zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta alternatives for diet-specific requirements.
  • Reduce sauce calories by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, maintaining creamy consistency while cutting down on fat content.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch, Appetizer
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 730
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 44g
  • Saturated Fat: 24g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 53g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 43g
  • Cholesterol: 160mg
Dave Mitchell

Dave Mitchell

Founder & Chief Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Grilling Techniques and Innovations​
  • Recipe Development and Testing
  • Culinary Education and Workshops​
  • Food Photography and Styling

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and menu planning, with a special emphasis on grilling and outdoor cooking. ​


Dave Mitchell is the heart behind Daves Grill, a cook, writer, and lover of all things grilled. He studied Culinary Arts at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and spent years cooking, testing, and sharing recipes that actually work.

Dave started Daves Grill to keep things simple: one great recipe at a time. His food is bold, easy to follow, and made for real people with regular kitchens. From juicy steaks to quick sides, Dave’s recipes bring the heat without the hassle.

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