Garlic, butter, and Parmesan—three ingredients that speak straight to the soul of any comfort food lover. This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe brings together tender, flavorful chicken and rich, velvety pasta in a dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite. It’s quick, satisfying, and perfect for a cozy dinner at home or even as a showstopper at a casual dinner gathering.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 12 oz fettuccine or pasta of your choice
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Extra garlic butter (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. - Cook the Chicken Bites:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken bites and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sear for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Stir in half the minced garlic during the last minute of cooking. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. - Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the remaining garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the garlic butter sauce. - Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
In another skillet or saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté briefly. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Slowly whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and thick. Season with salt and pepper to taste. - Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
Toss the cooked pasta into the creamy Parmesan sauce, stirring gently to ensure it’s well coated. If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it with a little pasta water. - Serve:
Divide the pasta between plates or bowls. Top each serving with a generous portion of garlic butter chicken bites. Drizzle extra garlic butter over the top if desired, and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or even a warm piece of garlic bread. It’s a delightful combination of savory, creamy, and garlicky that’s guaranteed to satisfy.
Cooking Tips and Variations
- Cheese Matters: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor.
- Pasta Choice: While fettuccine works wonderfully, penne, rotini, or spaghetti are great alternatives.
- Add Veggies: Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes can be added to the pasta for extra nutrition and color.
- Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick if you like a bit of heat.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Cook components separately and assemble before serving. The sauce and chicken reheat well.
This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is more than just a recipe—it’s a weeknight miracle. With simple steps, rich flavors, and universal appeal, it’s the kind of meal you’ll return to again and again. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or treating yourself, this dish delivers comfort and joy in every creamy, garlicky, cheesy bite.