Crispy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites: A Cheesy Pasta Recipe

Weeknight dinners just got a delicious upgrade with these irresistible garlic butter chicken bites.

Crispy edges and tender centers make this dish a total winner.

Melted butter creates a rich, velvety coating that locks in incredible flavor.

Parmesan pasta serves as the perfect companion, catching every delectable sauce drop.

Each bite promises a symphony of herbs and savory goodness that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Simple ingredients combine to create something magical on your plate.

Gather These Ingredients for Creamy Parmesan Pasta and Chicken Bites

• Chicken Pieces: Tender morsels that form the main protein of this delicious dish.

• Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder, Paprika: Essential spices that enhance the chicken's flavor and create a delicious coating.

• Butter: Provides rich flavor and helps create a golden-brown exterior for the chicken.

• Pasta: The hearty foundation that soaks up the creamy sauce and completes the meal.

• Heavy Cream: Adds luxurious richness and creates a smooth, velvety sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Brings a sharp, salty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
• Italian Seasoning: Adds depth and aromatic herbs to the sauce.

• Garlic: Provides a bold, intense flavor that elevates both the chicken and the sauce.

• Fresh Parsley: Adds a pop of color and fresh herb flavor to finish the dish.

Step-by-Step Guide to Garlic Butter Chicken Bites and Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season chicken pieces with a blend of spices. Heat a skillet and melt butter, then cook chicken until golden and perfectly crispy.

Toss in fresh garlic and let it dance with the chicken for an extra flavor punch. Move the chicken to a warm plate to rest.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

Cook pasta in generously salted water until it reaches that perfect al dente texture. Scoop out some pasta water before draining – this liquid gold will be your secret weapon later.

Step 3: Craft the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

• Parmesan cheese
• Italian seasoning

Stir until the sauce transforms into a smooth, dreamy concoction.

If it’s too thick, splash in some reserved pasta water to create the ideal consistency. Season with salt and pepper to your heart’s content.

Step 4: Bring Everything Together

Tumble the pasta into the luxurious sauce, coating each strand. Gently reunite the chicken with the pasta, letting the flavors mingle and get to know each other.

Let everything simmer for a moment to create pure magic.

Step 5: Serve and Celebrate

Shower the dish with fresh parsley.

Serve piping hot and watch everyone’s eyes light up with excitement. Dinner is served!

Insider Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Every Time

• Ensure chicken pieces are similar in size for even cooking and consistent texture.
• Pat chicken dry before seasoning to help achieve a golden-brown crispy exterior.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a richer, more authentic flavor profile.
• Reserve pasta water strategically to adjust sauce consistency without losing creamy texture.
• Keep heat at medium to prevent burning garlic and scorching the delicate sauce.

Creative Twists to Try with Chicken Bites and Parmesan Pasta

• Lighter Herb Chicken Option: Swap butter for olive oil, use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream, and add fresh thyme and rosemary for a healthier, lower-fat version.
• Spicy Mexican Chicken Pasta: Replace Italian seasoning with chili powder, cumin, and add diced jalapeños. Use pepper jack cheese instead of Parmesan for a zesty kick.
• Gluten-Free Friendly Version: Substitute regular pasta with zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta. Use cornstarch to thicken sauce if needed and ensure all seasonings are gluten-free certified.
• Mediterranean Inspired Variation: Use feta cheese instead of Parmesan, add kalamata olives, and sprinkle with fresh oregano. Replace butter with extra virgin olive oil for an authentic Mediterranean flavor profile.

Ideal Food and Drink Pairings for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

• Elevate Wine Pairing: Choose a crisp, medium-bodied white wine like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay to complement the rich, creamy garlic butter sauce and cut through the chicken's savory profile.
• Craft Perfect Beer Match: Select a light, refreshing wheat beer or a hoppy pale ale that balances the dish's buttery richness and enhances the garlic and parmesan flavors without overwhelming the palate.
• Design Ideal Side Companion: Prepare a simple mixed green salad with a zesty lemon vinaigrette to provide a fresh, tangy contrast to the creamy pasta and add a bright, acidic element to the meal.

Best Practices for Storing Garlic Butter Chicken Bites and Pasta

Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Chicken and pasta will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Transfer to freezer-safe containers, removing excess air. Freeze for up to 2 months. Separate chicken and pasta for better texture preservation.

Place portion in microwave-safe dish. Add splash of cream or water to prevent dryness. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until thoroughly warmed.

Warm in skillet over medium-low heat. Add small amount of butter or cream to restore sauce consistency. Stir gently to prevent pasta from breaking, heating until chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature.

FAQs

• Why season the chicken with multiple spices?

The blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika creates a flavorful crust that enhances the chicken’s taste and adds depth to the overall dish.

• Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, you can use various pasta shapes like fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni. Choose a pasta that holds sauce well and complements the creamy Parmesan sauce.

• Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can cook the chicken and pasta ahead of time and store them separately. Reheat gently and mix just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.

• How can I make this dish healthier?

Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream, opt for whole wheat pasta, and add extra vegetables like spinach or roasted bell peppers to increase nutritional value.

Discover What Makes Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Irresistible

• Taste Explosion: Garlic butter chicken bites deliver a burst of flavor that dances on your taste buds with perfectly seasoned meat and creamy Parmesan sauce.
• Quick Kitchen Hero: Prepare this restaurant-quality meal in a single skillet, minimizing cleanup and maximizing convenience for busy home cooks.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Combines kid-friendly chicken with sophisticated pasta, making it an ideal dish for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
• Customizable Delight: Easily adapt the recipe by adjusting seasonings or adding vegetables to suit personal preferences and dietary needs.

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites With Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe

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4.6 from 12 reviews

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

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Description

Succulent garlic butter chicken bites dance alongside creamy parmesan pasta in this irresistible comfort meal. Hearty flavors meld together, promising a delightful culinary experience that satisfies your craving for a quick and delicious dinner.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 1 pound (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

Spices and Seasonings:

• Salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 0.5 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Dairy and Flavor Enhancers:

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Additional Ingredients:

• 8 ounces (8 oz) pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken by coating it with a blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, ensuring each piece is evenly seasoned.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium temperature, melt butter, and carefully place the seasoned chicken pieces into the pan.
3. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, rotating periodically to achieve a golden-brown exterior and ensure thorough internal cooking.
4. Introduce minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing for an additional minute to release its aromatic essence.
5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside, keeping it warm for later incorporation.
6. Simultaneously, bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook the pasta until it reaches al dente perfection.
7. Before draining, carefully extract and reserve 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water.
8. In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt additional butter over medium heat.
9. Add minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden, approximately 1-2 minutes.
10. Pour heavy cream into the skillet, then incorporate Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning.
11. Stir continuously until the cheese melts completely, creating a smooth, creamy sauce.
12. Adjust the sauce’s consistency by gradually adding reserved pasta water if needed.
13. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to enhance its flavor profile.
14. Introduce the cooked pasta to the sauce, gently tossing to ensure complete coating.
15. Return the golden chicken bites to the skillet, delicately mixing with the creamy pasta.
16. Allow the dish to simmer briefly, enabling the flavors to meld together harmoniously.
17. Finish by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately while piping hot.

Notes

• Ensure chicken pieces are similar in size for even cooking, preventing some bites from being undercooked or overdone.
• Pat chicken dry before seasoning to help achieve a golden-brown, crispy exterior that locks in moisture.
• Experiment with alternative protein options like tofu, shrimp, or plant-based chicken for dietary adaptations.
• Use gluten-free pasta to make the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities, maintaining the same creamy, rich flavor profile.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 698 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 470 mg
• Fat: 45 g
• Saturated Fat: 26 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
• Trans Fat: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 39 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 40 g
• Cholesterol: 150 mg