Irresistibly Juicy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Parmesan Pasta Recipe

Golden, crispy chicken bites drenched in a mouthwatering garlic butter sauce with parmesan pasta create a delectable dinner dream.

The skillet sizzles with rich, savory flavors that promise pure comfort.

These tender chicken morsels dance with robust garlic and creamy butter, delivering an irresistible meal in minutes.

Each bite combines perfectly seasoned chicken with silky pasta coated in a luxurious parmesan embrace.

The simple ingredients transform into something extraordinary with minimal effort.

Weeknight cooking reaches new heights of deliciousness with this crowd-pleasing recipe.

Prepare to experience a symphony of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Calories: 756 kcal

Servings: 4

Ingredients That Bring Garlic Butter Chicken Bites to Life

• Paprika: Adds warm, smoky depth and gorgeous golden color to chicken.
• Garlic Powder: Delivers concentrated garlic flavor without raw garlic intensity.
• Salt: Enhances overall taste and helps chicken achieve perfect seasoning.
• Black Pepper: Provides subtle heat and aromatic complexity to chicken.

• Chicken Pieces: Select boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for tender, quick-cooking protein.
• Olive Oil: Creates ideal searing environment for beautifully caramelized chicken exterior.
• Butter: Contributes rich, luxurious flavor and helps create silky sauce texture.
• Fresh Garlic: Brings bold, authentic aromatics and vibrant taste to dish.

• Heavy Cream: Produces luxurious, velvety sauce base with restaurant-quality richness.
• Parmesan Cheese: Delivers sharp, nutty complexity and helps thicken sauce naturally.
• Italian Seasoning: Provides herbaceous undertones with traditional Mediterranean flavor profile.
• Fresh Parsley: Offers bright, fresh finish and beautiful green color contrast.

Tools for Cooking Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Pasta

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta with enough space to cook noodles properly.
• Large skillet: Perfect for cooking chicken and creating creamy sauce, with ample room for stirring.
• Cutting board: Needed for chopping garlic and parsley safely.
• Chef's knife: Sharp tool for precise mincing of garlic and herbs.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring chicken and mixing pasta with sauce.
• Colander: Helps drain pasta quickly and efficiently.
• Measuring spoons: Useful for accurately measuring seasonings and spices.
• Measuring cups: Helps measure cream and other liquid ingredients precisely.

Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

• Boil Pasta Perfectly

Grab a big pot, salt the water generously, and cook pasta until it’s tender with a slight bite. Drain and set aside.

• Create Zesty Chicken Bites

Sprinkle chicken pieces with a flavor-packed blend of spices. Sizzle in a hot skillet with olive oil until they turn golden and crispy. Splash in butter and fresh garlic, tossing chicken to coat with aromatic goodness.

• Whip Up Creamy Parmesan

In the same skillet, melt butter and dance minced garlic around until fragrant. Pour in silky cream, letting it bubble gently. Stir in Parmesan cheese and Italian herbs, watching the sauce transform into a luxurious coating.

• Marry Pasta and Sauce

Tumble cooked pasta into the creamy sauce, swirling until every strand is embraced. Sprinkle fresh parsley for a burst of brightness and adjust seasoning to your taste.

• Plate and Devour

Pile creamy pasta onto plates, crown with garlicky chicken bites. Scatter extra parsley for a pop of color and dive right in while it’s hot and tempting.

Tips for Flavor Balance in Chicken and Pasta Combo

• Pat chicken pieces completely dry before seasoning to ensure a golden, crispy exterior that locks in delicious flavor.
• Swap heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a lactose-free version that maintains creamy texture.
• These chicken bites and pasta can be stored separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days, making them excellent for quick weeknight dinners or lunch prep.
• Experiment with different seasoning blends like smoked paprika, Cajun spice, or Italian herb mix to transform the flavor profile and keep the dish exciting.
• Replace pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a lighter, lower-carbohydrate meal that still delivers incredible taste and satisfaction.

Serve Garlic Chicken Bites with Parmesan Pasta Just Right

• Flavor Explosion Plating: Create a stunning presentation by arranging golden chicken bites attractively on top of creamy pasta, ensuring each bite gets maximum sauce coverage.
• Family-Style Feast: Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic, inviting dinner experience that encourages sharing and creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere around the table.
• Fresh Herb Finish: Sprinkle additional chopped parsley or basil just before serving to add a bright, fresh pop of color and enhance the dish's aromatic profile.
• Protein Power-Up: Complement the meal with a light side salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the creamy pasta and provide extra nutritional value.

Save the Pasta and Bites for Another Round

• Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cool the chicken and pasta completely before sealing to maintain optimal texture and prevent moisture buildup.
• Warm individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore sauce consistency. Stir midway through heating to distribute warmth evenly and prevent dry spots.
• Separate chicken and pasta before freezing to prevent soggy textures. Store in individual freezer-safe containers for maximum 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator and reheat gently to preserve flavors.
• Prepare chicken and sauce components separately during weekly cooking sessions. Store in separate containers, allowing flexible combination for quick weeknight dinners. Chicken can stay fresh for 3-4 days in refrigerator when properly sealed.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, thighs, or tenders. Just ensure they’re cut into bite-sized pieces and cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F.

• Is it possible to make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! Add red pepper flakes to the chicken seasoning or include a dash of cayenne pepper in the spice mix to increase the heat level.

• What can I do if I don't have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce might be slightly less rich and creamy. For a lighter version, try using Greek yogurt or a mixture of milk and cream cheese.

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your Parmesan cheese is certified gluten-free. Replace regular flour-based seasonings with gluten-free alternatives if needed.

Succulent Garlic Butter Chicken Bites With Parmesan Pasta

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4.8 from 15 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 5 1x

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Description

Savory garlic butter chicken bites nestled atop creamy Parmesan pasta create a comforting Italian-inspired meal. Tender chicken pieces glazed with rich garlic butter complement the silky, cheese-laden pasta for a satisfying dinner that delights palates.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb (450 g) chicken breasts, boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 ½ cups (360 ml) heavy cream
• 2 tbsps olive oil
• 4 tbsps unsalted butter
• ½ cup (50 g) Parmesan cheese, grated
• 300 g (10 oz) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• 2 tbsps fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• salt, to taste
• black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Pasta Preparation: Boil salted water and cook pasta according to package instructions, then drain completely and set aside.
2. Chicken Seasoning: Thoroughly coat chicken pieces with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to enhance flavor profile.
3. Chicken Sautéing: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, add seasoned chicken, and cook for 5-7 minutes, rotating occasionally until golden-brown and fully cooked through.
4. Garlic Butter Infusion: Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet, thoroughly coating chicken and allowing flavors to meld for 1-2 minutes, then transfer chicken to a separate plate.
5. Sauce Creation: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant, then pour in heavy cream while continuously stirring. Incorporate Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, gently simmering and whisking until sauce reaches a luxurious, slightly thickened consistency.
6. Pasta and Sauce Fusion: Combine cooked pasta with the creamy Parmesan sauce, ensuring thorough and even coating.
7. Final Touches: Fold chopped parsley into the pasta mixture, adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Plate the creamy pasta, strategically arranging garlic butter chicken bites on top, and garnish with additional fresh parsley. Serve immediately to maintain optimal temperature and texture.

Notes

• Chicken Doneness Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F internally, preventing undercooking and potential foodborne illness.
• Pasta Texture Control: Cook pasta al dente to maintain slight firmness, preventing mushiness when mixed with creamy sauce.
• Garlic Burning Prevention: Sauté garlic quickly at medium-low heat to release flavor without scorching, which creates bitter taste.
• Sauce Consistency Tip: Whisk Parmesan cheese gradually into cream to prevent clumping and achieve smooth, silky sauce texture.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5
• Calories: 650
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 36 g
• Saturated Fat: 20 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 60 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 150 mg