These tasty garlic butter chicken bites are juicy, flavorful, and super simple to make! Paired with creamy parmesan pasta, this dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home.
I love how these chicken bites soak up all that garlic goodness. The pasta is so creamy that I often end up double-serving myself—who can resist? 😄
This dish comes together quickly, making it a go-to for busy weeknights. Just toss everything together and enjoy a delicious meal that feels special!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. If you’re looking for a quicker option, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. It’ll save you time and still taste great!
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling the saltiness in the dish. If you’re dairy-free, consider using olive oil or a vegan butter alternative.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds so much flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work, but you’ll miss that fresh kick! For each clove, use about 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder.
Pasta: I usually go for fettuccine for that classic pairing with creamy sauces. If you’re gluten-free, try gluten-free pasta! Or even zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor and texture. If you need an alternative, Pecorino Romano is a great choice for a sharper taste.
How Do You Cook Chicken so It’s Juicy and Flavorful?
Cooking chicken bites perfectly requires a few simple but key steps. You want them juicy inside with a nice golden crust outside. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by cutting your chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs to enhance flavor before cooking.
- Heat oil in a skillet, ensuring it’s hot enough so that the chicken sizzles when it hits the pan.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes over medium-high heat, flipping occasionally until golden brown.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give each piece space to sear properly.
By following these steps, you’ll end up with deliciously juicy chicken bites every time!
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or reserved pasta water)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 20-30 minutes to make. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and cooking the chicken, while the pasta cooks simultaneously. Once everything is combined, it’s just a few more minutes to toss everything together. Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your pasta of choice and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Remember to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta! Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken Bites:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season your chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce for the Chicken:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the 3 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. Toss the cooked chicken back into the skillet, stirring it in the garlic butter sauce. Cook briefly to warm and then remove from heat. Keep warm.
4. Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
In a separate large skillet or saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well to combine, and let it come to a gentle simmer.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Slowly whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta directly into the sauce and toss well to ensure every piece is nicely coated.
7. Serve:
Plate up the creamy Parmesan pasta and generously top it with the garlic butter chicken bites. Finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
8. Enjoy!
Dig in while it’s warm! This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or some crusty garlic bread.
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This recipe combines the delightful flavors of garlic butter chicken with a rich and creamy pasta, making for a cozy meal that’s perfect for any occasion! Enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and will lend even more flavor to the dish. Just make sure they are cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Yes, you can use half-and-half for a lighter option, or even coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may be slightly different.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do it gently in a skillet or microwave and add a splash of water or cream if the pasta seems dry.
Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
Sure! Just swap the regular pasta with gluten-free pasta, which is widely available. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it an easy adaptation!
