Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Introduction

When I first made Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta, I wasn’t expecting such a big hit with my family. As soon as I served it, the compliments started pouring in. The combination of the savory, tender chicken bites and the creamy, cheesy pasta made for the perfect comfort meal. The garlic butter flavor in the chicken was absolutely mouthwatering, and when paired with the rich Parmesan sauce, it became a dish that everyone couldn’t stop talking about. Even my picky eater, who’s usually skeptical about creamy pasta dishes, had seconds! This recipe is definitely a keeper—easy to make, full of flavor, and satisfying for the whole family.

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Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

1. Flavor Explosion: The garlic butter chicken bites combined with the creamy Parmesan pasta make for a dish that’s rich, savory, and utterly irresistible.
2. Comfort Food at Its Best: This dish has all the makings of a comforting meal—tender chicken, creamy pasta, and a burst of garlic butter goodness.
3. Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
4. Versatile: You can easily adjust the recipe by using different pasta types or even adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.
5. Kid-Friendly: With its familiar flavors, this dish is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken Bites:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

• 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Cook the Chicken Bites:

1. Season the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
4. Transfer the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a plate and keep it warm while you prepare the pasta and sauce.

Cook the Pasta:

1. Boil the Pasta: While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining the pasta, reserve ½ cup of the pasta water. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:

1. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet you used for the chicken, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
2. Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
3. Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine:

1. Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
2. Add Chicken: Return the cooked chicken bites to the skillet and gently toss everything together to combine. Let it simmer for a minute to blend the flavors.

Serve:

1. Garnish: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a fresh flavor.
2. Serve Immediately: Serve the dish warm, and enjoy!

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Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 2-3
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 600-750 calories (depending on portion size and specific ingredients used)

(Note: These values are approximate and may vary depending on the pasta and portion size.)

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Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

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How to Serve

This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a great standalone dish, but you can serve it in various ways:

• With a Side Salad: Serve with a crisp side salad for a lighter meal. A Caesar salad or mixed greens with balsamic dressing would pair wonderfully.
• With Garlic Bread: Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices are perfect for sopping up the creamy sauce.
• With Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or asparagus for a well-rounded meal.
• As a Meal Prep Option: This dish makes for great leftovers, so it’s perfect for meal prepping. Store the chicken and pasta in separate containers and reheat when ready to serve.

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Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor in this dish, so avoid using garlic powder in place of the minced garlic.
2. Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Be sure to cook the chicken just until it’s golden brown and cooked through to ensure it’s tender and juicy.
3. Add Vegetables: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or peas to the pasta for added nutrition and flavor.
4. Adjust the Sauce: If you prefer a lighter sauce, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
5. Fresh Parsley Garnish: Garnishing with fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness to the dish, making it more visually appealing.

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FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer—penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti will work well with this dish.

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great substitute if you prefer dark meat or want a slightly juicier texture. Just make sure to cook them through.

3. Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?
While fresh, grated Parmesan cheese is ideal for this dish, you can use pre-grated cheese in a pinch. Just know that the texture might not be as smooth as fresh.

4. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure your seasonings and sauces don’t contain gluten.

5. Can I use olive oil instead of butter?
Yes, olive oil can be used, but butter provides a richer flavor that complements the garlic in the chicken bites and sauce.

6. How can I make this dish spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, you can add crushed red pepper flakes to the pasta sauce or sprinkle some over the chicken bites before cooking.

7. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
While the sauce is best when freshly made, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Reheat it on low heat and add a little pasta water to thin it out if necessary.

8. Can I add more cheese to the pasta sauce?
Yes, you can add more Parmesan or even mozzarella for a cheesier, thicker sauce. Just keep in mind that this will change the flavor and texture.

9. Can I use a different type of seasoning for the chicken?
Definitely! If you prefer other seasonings, try using Italian seasoning, thyme, or oregano for a different flavor profile.

10. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little added cream or pasta water to keep the sauce creamy.

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Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a delightful dish that’s simple to prepare, full of flavor, and guaranteed to satisfy. The combination of succulent chicken, creamy Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta makes this meal feel both indulgent and comforting. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. It’s easy to customize with different pasta types, vegetables, or seasonings, so you can make it your own. Try it out, and I’m sure it’ll quickly become a favorite in your household!

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