These delicious garlic butter chicken bites are packed with flavor! Served with creamy parmesan pasta, this dish will make your taste buds dance with joy.
Honestly, who can resist tender chicken smothered in garlic and butter? I love how quick and easy this meal is, perfect for busy nights when I still want something fancy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness. Breasts work fine too (that’s actually what I usually use). If you’re vegetarian or want a lighter option, try cubed tofu or chickpeas instead.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling the saltiness. If you want a dairy-free version, feel free to use olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute. You can also mix in some ghee for an extra rich flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for that bold flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder, but reduce it to about 1/2 teaspoon. I like adding a bit of roasted garlic for a sweeter taste, too!
Pasta: I prefer fettuccine, but penne or even gluten-free pasta works well. You can also swap in zucchini noodles for a low-carb option if you’re feeling adventurous!
How Can You Ensure Creamy Sauce Without Clumps?
One key to a smooth, delicious creamy sauce is to gradually add the grated parmesan while stirring constantly. This helps it melt evenly without clumping. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- After cooking the garlic in butter, lower the heat before adding the cream to prevent it from boiling too aggressively.
- Once you’ve added the cream, let it simmer gently for a couple of minutes to thicken slightly.
- Add the parmesan in small handfuls, stirring well after each addition until completely melted before adding more.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, mix in a bit of reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
This technique guarantees a creamy texture that will coat the pasta beautifully, leaving no lumps behind!
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken Bites:
- 1.5 lbs (700g) 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 (such as fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 15-20 minutes of cooking time. So, in total, expect to spend about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and tasty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta of choice and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, remember to reserve ½ cup of that flavorful pasta water before draining the rest and setting the pasta aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken Bites:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs. This will add bursts of flavor!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower your heat to medium and add the 3 tablespoons of butter along with the minced garlic. Sauté this beautiful mix for about 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant but be careful not to let the garlic burn—it can turn bitter!
5. Combine Chicken and Garlic Butter:
Now, it’s time to bring back that delicious chicken! Toss the chicken into the skillet with the garlic butter sauce, coating it evenly. Remove from heat and keep it warm while you make the creamy pasta sauce.
6. Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add in another 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute—your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
7. Add Cream:
Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring as you go, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes until it starts to thicken up slightly.
8. Add Parmesan and Season:
Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce is super smooth and creamy. If it gets a bit too thick, just mix in a little of that reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste!
9. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Now, add your cooked pasta right into that creamy Parmesan sauce. Toss it gently to coat all the noodles evenly—this is where the magic happens!
10. Serve:
Plate your creamy Parmesan pasta and generously top it with those savory garlic butter chicken bites. Don’t forget to garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
11. Enjoy:
Dig in and savor your flavorful Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta! Serve hot and share the joy of this delightful dish with family and friends.
This easy-to-make recipe offers a rich and satisfying main dish that combines tender, garlicky chicken bites with luscious, creamy pasta—perfect for a cozy dinner at home!
FAQ: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is a classic choice, you can use any pasta you have on hand, such as penne, spaghetti, or even gluten-free options. Just be sure to adjust cooking times based on the pasta type.
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs are a great alternative! They tend to be juicier and more flavorful, making them an excellent choice for this dish. You can substitute them in a 1:1 ratio without any issue.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken and pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. Use a dairy-free cheese for the Parmesan or nutritional yeast to maintain that cheesy flavor. Adjust the seasoning as needed!
