Are you on the hunt for an incredible dinner that’s both flavorful and easy to prepare? Look no further than Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta. This dish is the perfect combination of tender, juicy chicken bites coated in savory garlic butter and served with creamy, Parmesan-laden pasta that’s sure to delight your taste buds. It’s an ideal meal for weeknights when you’re craving something hearty and satisfying, but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

In this article, we’ll take you step-by-step through how to make this mouthwatering dish, giving you detailed instructions and tips to ensure your meal turns out just perfect. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or just treating yourself to something special, this recipe promises to deliver on flavor every time!

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Before you begin, let’s gather everything you’ll need to create this incredible dinner. The ingredients are simple, yet they come together beautifully to create a flavor-packed dish that’s sure to impress.

For the Chicken Bites:

1 lb chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
3 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

8 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
1 tablespoon butter
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

These ingredients are easily accessible and should already be in your kitchen, making this a straightforward recipe to whip up any day of the week!

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

This recipe is a breeze to prepare, yet it delivers big on flavor. Here’s how to make it, step by step.

1. Cook the Pasta

To get started, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta (whether you’re using fettuccine, penne, or another type) and cook according to the package instructions. Once it’s al dente, drain the pasta and set it aside. Remember to reserve a small amount of pasta water in case you want to thin out the sauce later.

Pro Tip: Adding salt to the water helps flavor the pasta as it cooks, making the entire dish more delicious.

2. Make the Chicken Bites

Next, we’ll cook the chicken bites. Heat 3 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add your chicken pieces to the pan. Season with oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir occasionally, cooking for about 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.

Once the chicken is perfectly cooked, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for another 1-2 minutes, until the garlic becomes fragrant and starts to soften. This is where the magic happens the garlic infuses the chicken with an irresistible aroma and flavor.

Once done, remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with fresh parsley. The chicken bites should be beautifully browned and ready to serve on top of your creamy pasta.

3. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet you used for the chicken (no need to clean it the leftover garlic and chicken bits will add extra flavor to your sauce), melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Allow the cream to come to a simmer, stirring occasionally. After a couple of minutes, stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder.

The Parmesan will melt into the cream, creating a rich and velvety sauce. Let the sauce simmer for about 3-4 minutes, or until it thickens up nicely. Make sure to season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference.

Pro Tip: If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Once your sauce is thick and creamy, it’s time to add the cooked pasta. Pour the pasta into the skillet with the Parmesan sauce, and toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Let everything cook together for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the pasta to absorb some of the sauce, making it even more flavorful.

5. Serve the Dish

Now comes the best part serving! Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta first, and then top it with your garlic butter chicken bites. Sprinkle a little more fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve the dish hot and enjoy the amazing flavors!

Nutritional Information

If you’re watching your calorie intake, you’ll be pleased to know that this recipe provides a satisfying meal without overindulging. Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown:

Calories: 500 kcal per serving
Servings: 4 servings

This makes for a perfectly balanced dinner, combining protein from the chicken with the creamy richness of the Parmesan pasta. It’s filling without being too heavy — just right for a cozy meal!

Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

While this dish is already a meal in itself, you can enhance it by adding a few tasty sides:

Roasted Vegetables: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers. They’ll add a healthy crunch and complement the richness of the pasta.
Garlic Bread: What’s pasta without garlic bread? The crispy, buttery bread pairs wonderfully with the creamy pasta sauce.
A Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette will cut through the richness of the pasta and add a refreshing balance to the meal.
Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus is another great option that adds a vibrant green touch to your plate.

Pairing this dish with a chilled glass of iced tea or sparkling water will make for a refreshing dinner experience.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

This recipe is simple, but here are a few tips to help you achieve the best results:

Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Be mindful not to overcook the chicken. It should be golden brown and juicy, but not dry. Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a stronger, more vibrant flavor compared to pre-minced garlic. Always opt for freshly minced garlic when possible!
Customize Your Pasta: Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta. Fettuccine works beautifully, but penne, spaghetti, or even whole wheat pasta can also work great with the creamy sauce.

Variations and Customizations

This dish is incredibly versatile, so don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own:

Add Vegetables: Toss in some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes into the sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
Make it Spicy: If you like a little heat, try adding some red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the chicken bites for a spicy kick.
Swap the Chicken: If you prefer a different protein, you can easily swap the chicken for shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Lighten Up the Sauce: If you’re looking for a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or milk. You can also reduce the amount of butter to make it less rich.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make sure your dish turns out perfectly, here are a few common mistakes to watch out for:

Burning the Garlic: Garlic burns easily, so be careful when cooking it. Always add it last and cook it just until fragrant — about 1-2 minutes.
Overcrowding the Pan: When cooking the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches to ensure it browns evenly.
Not Tasting the Sauce: Always taste your sauce before serving and adjust the seasonings accordingly. Salt and pepper are key to balancing the richness of the cream and Parmesan.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! You can swap in your favorite pasta type, whether it’s penne, rotini, or even spaghetti. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While the chicken and pasta are best served fresh, you can prep the chicken and the creamy sauce earlier in the day. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat and combine the elements.

How can I make the dish spicier?

For a spicy twist, add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce or the chicken before cooking.

Can I use a non-dairy option for the sauce?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, try using coconut cream or almond milk in place of the heavy cream, and nutritional yeast as a substitute for Parmesan.

What can I serve with this dish?

This garlic butter chicken and creamy pasta pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, a side salad, garlic bread, or even a crispy baguette.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a delightful, flavor-packed dish that will become a household favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight dinner or preparing for a special occasion, this meal has everything you need: rich, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and a satisfying pasta base. It’s simple to make, yet full of impressive flavors that will leave everyone at the table asking for more.

Looking for more delicious recipes? Try out these other tasty ideas:

Let us know how your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta turned out in the comments, and share your tips for making it your own!

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Author: Amelia Sullivan
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a quick, delicious, and flavor-packed dinner. The tender chicken bites are perfectly seasoned, sautéed to golden perfection, and paired with a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. This easy recipe is sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken Bites:

1 lb chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
3 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

8 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
1 tablespoon butter
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
Make the Chicken Bites:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.
Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and garlic powder, cooking for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the creamy Parmesan sauce and toss to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the pasta to absorb the sauce.
Serve:
Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta and top with the garlic butter chicken bites. Garnish with additional fresh parsley and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Notes

You can use any pasta variety you prefer, but fettuccine or penne works best for this creamy sauce.
For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top of the pasta before serving.
Make sure to cook the chicken until golden brown for the best texture and flavor.
This dish can be made in one skillet for easy cleanup!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Skillet Cooking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (based on 4 servings)
Calories: 500 kcal
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 560mg
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: Garlic butter chicken bites, creamy parmesan pasta, garlic butter chicken, creamy chicken pasta, chicken bites recipe, easy pasta dinner, chicken and pasta recipe, comfort food, dinner ideas, creamy parmesan sauce, weeknight dinner, family dinner