These garlic butter chicken bites are juicy and flavorful, making them a perfect quick meal. Pair them with creamy parmesan pasta, and you’ll have a dish everyone will love!
Honestly, who can say no to buttery chicken and cheesy pasta? They’re like the best friends of dinner time! I enjoy making this on busy nights when I need tasty food fast.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for this recipe. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using turkey breast instead. It cooks similarly and absorbs flavors well.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal here to control the saltiness. If you’re short on butter, you can use olive oil or coconut oil for a different flavor profile.
Garlic: Fresh garlic truly enhances the dish’s flavor, but if you only have garlic powder, use about 1/4 tsp for each clove. However, fresh garlic provides a stronger and fresher taste.
Pasta: I like using fettuccine for its thickness, but penne, spaghetti, or any favorite pasta works too. Gluten-free options, like chickpea or brown rice pasta, can also be used without losing flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. In a pinch, you can use Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option that still adds a cheesy taste.
How Do You Cook Chicken Bites to Keep Them Juicy?
The key to juicy chicken bites is all in the cooking method! Start by ensuring your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. Follow these steps:
- Heat olive oil and butter together in the skillet before adding garlic for flavor.
- Cook the chicken in batches if necessary, so the pieces aren’t overcrowded—this helps them brown instead of steam.
- Cook until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety and juiciness.
- Don’t skip letting the butter melt over the chicken at the end; this enriches flavor and locks in moisture!
With these tips, your chicken will come out flavorful and tender every time. Enjoy your cooking!
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or 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 (225 g) pasta of your choice (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti work well)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes in total. It includes around 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes to cook. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal that feels a bit special!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. When done, drain the pasta, but remember to save about ½ cup of the pasta water. Set the pasta aside.
2. Cook the Chicken Bites:
While your pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet. Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Now, drop in those chicken pieces, season them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, for about 6-8 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Finally, add in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, letting it melt and coat the chicken. Move the pan off the heat and keep the chicken warm.
3. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
In another large skillet or saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add in the minced garlic and stick around for about 1 minute until it releases its flavor. Next, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until it becomes smooth and creamy. Season the sauce with salt and black pepper, plus red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. If the sauce appears too thick, just add a splash of that reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Now, add the drained pasta into the creamy Parmesan sauce. Toss it gently to coat all the pasta evenly. Let it heat through for about 1-2 minutes while you prepare to serve.
5. Serve:
Plate up the creamy Parmesan pasta and top it generously with those garlic butter chicken bites. If you fancy, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful mix of flavors!
This dish offers a rich, comforting combination of buttery garlic chicken and silky parmesan pasta—a perfect weeknight meal that’s simple yet indulgent!
FAQ for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and add great flavor. Just ensure they’re cooked through (165°F or 74°C) before serving.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of butter for richness. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut cream or cashew cream.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or additional cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce a day in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, cook the pasta and then combine everything for a quick reheat!
