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Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is pure comfort food and comes together fast for a satisfying dinner any night of the week. The juicy chicken bites are packed with garlic flavor and nestled on a bed of creamy cheesy noodles it feels restaurant special without the hassle.
My family always fights for the crispy edge pieces of chicken and the silky pasta almost never makes it to the leftovers. I started making this when we needed an easy crowd-pleaser and it has yet to let us down.
Ingredients
- Boneless chicken breasts: Chicken stays tender and soaks up the garlic flavor Look for plump pieces that are pale pink and moist
- Olive oil: Helps brown the chicken and keeps it juicy Choose a good extra virgin oil for the best taste
- Garlic: Adds that punchy aromatic flavor Fresh and finely minced is key
- Dried Italian seasoning: Infuses the chicken with herby notes Make sure the blend has oregano and basil for balance
- Salt and pepper: Enhances every ingredient Freshly ground black pepper adds warmth
- Butter: Finishes the chicken bites with savory richness Use unsalted for better control
- Pasta: Any sturdy pasta works Penne or fettuccine hold the sauce well Use high-quality wheat pasta for the best result
- Chicken broth: Lifts the cream sauce with savory depth Go for a low-sodium option
- Heavy cream: Gives that luscious creamy texture Look for rich unwhipped cream
- Grated Parmesan cheese: The main flavor anchor Freshly grated from a block will melt better and boost taste
- Chopped fresh parsley: Finishes the dish with a bright green note Fresh flat-leaf has the most flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil your chosen pasta in a large pot of salted water following the package directions until just al dente Drain right away so it stays perfect for the sauce
- Brown the Chicken Bites:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Add the chicken pieces and season them on all sides Let the chicken cook undisturbed until it develops a golden crust which should take about six to eight minutes Stir occasionally so each piece finishes evenly colored
- Make the Garlic Butter Base:
- Once the chicken is golden push it to the edge of the pan Drop in the butter and minced garlic Let this cook for a minute until the garlic becomes fragrant but not too brown Stir everything together so the chicken gets coated Remove the chicken from the pan but leave any little browned bits behind
- Whip Up the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
- Into the same skillet pour the chicken broth and cream Scrape up any golden residue from the chicken with a wooden spoon Let this simmer gently for two to three minutes Lower the heat and add the Parmesan cheese stirring slowly until it melts into a smooth creamy sauce Taste for salt and pepper
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with your sauce Toss with tongs so every piece gets slicked in creaminess
- Finish and Serve:
- Heap the pasta onto plates then pile on the garlic butter chicken bites Sprinkle with the fresh parsley for color and freshness Serve hot for the ultimate comfort meal
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A huge part of my love for this dish is how the cheese melts perfectly into the cream every single time It is the one recipe where my kids never think twice about green herbs on top and always come back for seconds
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within three days Warm gently on the stove with a splash of extra cream or broth to revive the sauce For freezing keep the chicken and pasta separate then reheat and toss together when ready to serve
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap chicken thighs for extra juiciness or use shrimp for a lighter touch You can use half and half in place of heavy cream for a less rich sauce If Parmesan is missing try pecorino Romano for a sharper bite
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a classic Italian spread A few lemon wedges on the side help balance the richness and bring the dish to life
Cultural Touch
Creamy Parmesan pasta was always a restaurant treat growing up and now it is something we make even on ordinary weeknights There is something about a pan of sizzling garlic chicken that makes any night feel special
Recipe FAQs
- → How do you keep chicken bites tender?
Quickly searing the chicken over medium heat and avoiding overcooking helps retain moisture and tenderness.
- → Can I use different pasta shapes?
Absolutely! Penne, fettuccine, or any preferred pasta will work well with the creamy sauce and chicken bites.
- → What adds extra creaminess to the sauce?
Heavy cream and freshly grated parmesan cheese create a smooth, indulgently creamy sauce.
- → Should the chicken and pasta be combined or served separately?
The pasta is tossed in the cream sauce, then topped with the warm garlic butter chicken for best texture and presentation.
- → What herbs complement the finished dish?
Fresh parsley adds brightness and color, but basil or chives could also work beautifully as garnish.