Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe

From the moment the aroma of garlic and butter started wafting through my kitchen, I knew this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe was going to be a hit. As a busy parent, weeknight dinners often feel like a race against the clock, and finding dishes that are both quick and satisfying can be a real challenge. But this recipe? It’s a game-changer. The tender, juicy chicken bites, bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce, paired perfectly with the creamy, cheesy parmesan pasta. My family, from the pickiest eater to the most adventurous, devoured every last bite. The kids even asked for seconds, which is always the ultimate stamp of approval in our house! This dish is not just delicious; it’s comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight meal or something a little special to impress, this recipe is guaranteed to become a new family favorite. Get ready to experience a symphony of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for the recipe!

Ingredients

This recipe is divided into two main components: the garlic butter chicken bites and the creamy parmesan pasta. Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece:

For the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:

• 1.5 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Opt for chicken breasts that are plump and evenly sized for consistent cooking. You can also use chicken thighs for a richer flavor, but cooking times may need to be adjusted slightly.
• 4 Cloves Garlic: Fresh garlic is key to the robust flavor of this dish. Feel free to add an extra clove or two if you are a true garlic lover! Look for firm, unblemished cloves.
• ½ Cup Unsalted Butter: Butter is the foundation of our luscious garlic butter sauce. Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish.
• 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil: Olive oil helps to prevent the butter from burning and adds a healthy fat component to the dish. Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its flavor and health benefits.
• 1 Tablespoon Dried Italian Seasoning: This blend of herbs adds depth and complexity to the chicken. If you prefer, you can use a mix of dried oregano, basil, rosemary, and thyme.
• 1 Teaspoon Paprika: Paprika adds a subtle smoky note and beautiful color to the chicken bites. Smoked paprika can be used for an even more intense smoky flavor.
• ½ Teaspoon Salt: Salt enhances the flavors of all the ingredients. Adjust to your taste.
• ¼ Teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a touch of spice.
• 2 Tablespoons Fresh Parsley, Chopped (for garnish): Fresh parsley adds a pop of freshness and visual appeal to the finished dish.

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

• 1 lb Pasta of Choice: Penne, fettuccine, spaghetti, or rotini all work wonderfully in this recipe. Choose your favorite pasta shape! For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta.
• 8 oz Cream Cheese, softened: Softened cream cheese is crucial for a smooth and creamy sauce. Allow it to come to room temperature for easier blending. Full-fat or reduced-fat cream cheese can be used.
• 1 Cup Heavy Cream: Heavy cream provides richness and luxuriousness to the sauce. Half-and-half can be used for a lighter option, but the sauce will be less thick.
• 1 Cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan cheese is essential for the best flavor. Avoid pre-shredded parmesan as it often contains cellulose and doesn’t melt as smoothly.
• ½ Cup Reserved Pasta Water: Don’t discard the pasta water! It is starchy and helps to emulsify the sauce, creating a silky smooth texture.
• ½ Teaspoon Garlic Powder: While we have fresh garlic in the chicken, a touch of garlic powder in the pasta sauce enhances the overall garlic flavor profile.
• ¼ Teaspoon Salt: Adjust to taste, keeping in mind that parmesan cheese is already salty.
• ⅛ Teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle warmth to the creamy sauce.
• Optional: Red Pepper Flakes (for a touch of heat): If you enjoy a little spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick to the pasta.

Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your own Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta masterpiece:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Bites

1. Cut the Chicken: Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, approximately 1-inch cubes. Uniformly sized pieces will ensure even cooking. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to help them brown nicely.
2. Mince the Garlic: Peel and mince the garlic cloves finely. Mincing releases the maximum flavor of the garlic. You can use a garlic press or chop it with a knife.
3. Season the Chicken: In a medium bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the seasonings. This step infuses the chicken with flavor right from the start.
4. Melt Butter and Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet (preferably cast iron or stainless steel) over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Once the butter is melted and shimmering, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter. The aroma of sautéing garlic is a wonderful indicator that it’s ready.
5. Sear the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding can steam the chicken instead of searing it. Work in batches if necessary. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
6. Remove Chicken from Skillet: Once the chicken is cooked through and nicely browned, remove it from the skillet and set aside on a plate. Leave the flavorful garlic butter sauce in the skillet.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Pasta

1. Cook the Pasta: While you are preparing the chicken, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. “Al dente” means “to the tooth,” and pasta cooked al dente will have a slight firmness in the center. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. The starchy pasta water is essential for creating a creamy sauce.
2. Create the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet you used to cook the chicken (with the garlic butter sauce remaining), reduce the heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and smooth, incorporating the garlic butter sauce.
3. Add Heavy Cream and Parmesan: Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Gradually add the grated parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. The parmesan cheese will thicken the sauce beautifully.
4. Season the Sauce: Stir in the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed. If you like a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes at this stage.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked and drained pasta to the creamy parmesan sauce in the skillet. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached. The pasta water will help to create a silky, emulsified sauce.

Step 3: Assemble and Serve

1. Add Chicken Bites to Pasta: Gently fold the cooked garlic butter chicken bites into the creamy parmesan pasta. Ensure the chicken is well distributed throughout the pasta.
2. Garnish and Serve: Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy! A sprinkle of extra parmesan cheese on top is always a welcome addition.

Nutrition Facts

(Estimated per serving, based on 6 servings)

• Servings: 6
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 650-750 calories

Approximate Nutritional Breakdown (per serving):

• Protein: 45-55g
• Fat: 35-45g
• Carbohydrates: 40-50g

Important Notes:

• These are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used, portion sizes, and pasta type.
• Using reduced-fat cream cheese and half-and-half instead of heavy cream will reduce the fat and calorie content.
• Adding vegetables like broccoli or spinach will increase the nutritional value and fiber content.
• For more accurate nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator app and input the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (chopping chicken, mincing garlic, grating cheese)
• Cook Time: 25 minutes (cooking chicken, pasta, and sauce)
• Total Time: 45 minutes

This recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal as it comes together in under an hour! The majority of the time is spent cooking, with minimal prep work required.

How to Serve

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a complete and satisfying meal on its own. However, you can elevate your dining experience by serving it with complementary sides and garnishes. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

Garnishes:

• Fresh Parsley: As mentioned before, chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of extra parmesan cheese on top enhances the cheesy flavor and adds a beautiful visual appeal.
• Red Pepper Flakes: For those who like a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be sprinkled on top as a garnish.
• Fresh Basil: In addition to parsley, fresh basil leaves can also be used as a garnish for a different herbaceous note.

Side Dishes:

• Garlic Bread or Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the delicious creamy parmesan sauce. Warm, crusty bread or garlic bread complements the richness of the pasta beautifully.
• Side Salad: A light and refreshing side salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a contrast to the richness of the pasta and adds freshness. Consider a simple green salad, a Caesar salad, or a Caprese salad.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts add fiber and nutrients to the meal. The slight char from roasting provides a nice textural contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Steamed Green Beans: A simple and healthy side dish that pairs well with the richness of the pasta. Steamed green beans are quick to prepare and offer a vibrant green color to the plate.
• Tomato Salad: A fresh tomato salad with balsamic vinaigrette provides a bright and acidic counterpoint to the creamy pasta, cutting through the richness.

Serving Occasions:

• Weeknight Family Dinner: This recipe is quick and easy enough for a weeknight meal, yet delicious and satisfying enough to please the whole family.
• Casual Dinner Party: Impress your friends with this flavorful and comforting dish at a casual dinner gathering.
• Potluck or Bring-a-Dish Event: This pasta dish travels well and is always a crowd-pleaser at potlucks and gatherings.
• Comfort Food Night: When you’re craving something warm, comforting, and cheesy, this recipe is the perfect choice.

Additional Tips for Perfection

Here are five extra tips to help you achieve culinary perfection with your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

1. Marinate the Chicken for Extra Flavor: For even more flavorful and tender chicken, consider marinating it for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking. A simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning will do wonders. This step is optional but elevates the chicken to another level of deliciousness.
2. Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Chicken breasts can become dry and tough if overcooked. Cook the chicken until it is just cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure perfectly cooked, juicy chicken.
3. Use Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese: As mentioned earlier, freshly grated parmesan cheese melts much smoother and has a superior flavor compared to pre-shredded parmesan. Invest in a block of parmesan cheese and a grater for the best results.
4. Adjust Garlic and Parmesan to Your Taste: This recipe is a guideline, feel free to adjust the amount of garlic and parmesan cheese to suit your personal preferences. If you are a garlic lover, add an extra clove or two. If you prefer a cheesier sauce, add more parmesan cheese.
5. Make it Ahead (Partially): You can save time on busy weeknights by prepping some components ahead of time. You can cut the chicken into bites and season it earlier in the day, or even the night before. You can also grate the parmesan cheese ahead of time. However, it’s best to cook the chicken and pasta fresh for optimal texture and flavor.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

A: Yes, you can definitely use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. Chicken thighs are richer in flavor and tend to stay more moist. Keep in mind that chicken thighs may take slightly longer to cook than chicken breasts. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Q2: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

A: To make this recipe vegetarian, you can substitute the chicken with other protein sources like:

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like cauliflower, broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini would pair beautifully with the creamy parmesan pasta and garlic butter sauce.
• Grilled Halloumi Cheese: Halloumi cheese grills or pan-fries nicely and has a satisfyingly salty and chewy texture that would complement the pasta.
• Chickpeas or White Beans: For a plant-based protein option, roasted or sautéed chickpeas or white beans can be added to the pasta.

Q3: What kind of pasta is best for this dish?

A: While you can use any pasta shape you prefer, some pastas work particularly well with creamy sauces. Excellent choices include:

• Penne: The ridges of penne pasta hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Fettuccine: Long, flat fettuccine noodles are classic for creamy sauces like Alfredo and parmesan cream sauce.
• Spaghetti: While spaghetti is more commonly paired with tomato-based sauces, it also works well with creamy sauces and is a versatile option.
• Rotini: The spirals of rotini pasta are great for capturing and holding onto the sauce.
• Bow Tie (Farfalle): Bow tie pasta adds a fun shape to the dish and its crevices hold the sauce nicely.

Q4: Can I add vegetables to this dish?

A: Absolutely! Adding vegetables is a great way to boost the nutritional value and flavor of this dish. Consider adding:

• Broccoli Florets: Steamed or roasted broccoli florets can be added to the pasta during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Spinach or Kale: Fresh spinach or kale can be wilted into the sauce just before adding the pasta.
• Asparagus: Roasted or sautéed asparagus spears add a delicate flavor and vibrant green color.
• Sun-dried Tomatoes: Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of intense flavor and chewiness.
• Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms, like cremini or button mushrooms, add an earthy and savory element.

Q5: How long can I store leftovers, and how do I reheat them?

A: Leftovers of Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

To reheat:

• Microwave: The quickest method is to microwave individual portions in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Add a tablespoon of milk or cream to help prevent the pasta from drying out.
• Stovetop: For larger portions, reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce as needed. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.

Enjoy your delicious and easy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will become a staple in your recipe rotation.

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