If you’ve been on the lookout for a comforting yet elegant dish to spice up your weeknight dinners, you’re going to fall in love with this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe. Picture tender, golden chicken bites bathed in a rich, buttery garlic sauce that perfectly hugs al dente pasta, all elevated by the nutty depth of Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil. It’s the ideal blend of simple ingredients coming together for maximum flavor impact, guaranteed to make everyone around your table ask for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe is straightforward but plays a crucial role in building layers of taste, texture, and color. Let’s dive in so you can gather everything and get ready to cook this delightful meal.
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed: Lean and juicy, chicken breast soaks up the garlic butter while staying tender.
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini): These shapes hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully and add a pleasant bite.
- 4 tbsp butter: The star that creates that luscious, silky garlic base for the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses the recipe with that unmistakable aroma and punch.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adds the richness needed to make the Parmesan sauce irresistibly creamy.
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: This cheese brings savory depth and a slightly nutty flavor that ties everything together.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and highlighting all other flavors.
- Fresh basil for garnish: A splash of green freshness that brightens the entire dish visually and in taste.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions until perfectly al dente. It’s key to drain it well because you want a firm bite that won’t get mushy once mixed with the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Chicken
Next, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat and add the minced garlic. Let it gently sizzle until fragrant, then toss in the cubed chicken breast. Cook the chicken until it develops a beautiful golden-brown crust, locking in juiciness and adding texture.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Lower the heat slightly and stir in the heavy cream along with the grated Parmesan cheese. Let these simmer together, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens to a perfect creamy consistency. Season it carefully with salt and pepper so the flavors sing in harmony.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Finally, add the drained pasta to your skillet and gently toss until every piece is generously coated with that silky sauce. This is the moment the garlic butter chicken bites and creamy Parmesan pasta truly unite into one unforgettable dish.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Simplicity works best here—fresh basil leaves are a wonderful choice. Their bright, herbal notes provide a lovely contrast to the richness of the sauce, and they add a pop of vibrant color that makes the plate extra inviting.
Side Dishes
Serve this dish alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. These will balance out the creamy texture and provide a fresh, healthy crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe in a bread bowl or even layered in a shallow casserole dish sprinkled with extra Parmesan and broiled for a minute for a golden crust. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the sauce doesn’t dry out by sealing tightly to keep that luscious creaminess intact.
Freezing
If you’d like to save some for later, this dish freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and use within 2 months for best flavor. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until warmed through, making sure not to overcook the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne or rotini are ideal for holding sauce, feel free to use spaghetti, fettuccine, or any pasta you love. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use coconut cream or another plant-based cream instead of heavy cream. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for cheesy flavor.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Cook until the chicken is no longer pink inside and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The golden-brown exterior is a good visual cue too.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely. Spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes work wonderfully added when you stir in the cream to boost flavors and nutrition.
What can I use instead of fresh basil?
If fresh basil isn’t available, dried basil or even fresh parsley will still add a lovely touch of greenery and freshness to the dish.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend enough that you try this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe soon. It feels like a special occasion meal but comes together quickly and easily, perfect for sharing with family or friends. Once you make it, it’s going to become one of your go-to meals for busy days when you still want something homemade and utterly delicious.
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Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Bites served with a creamy Parmesan pasta make for a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breast is cooked in garlic butter, then combined with a luscious Parmesan cream sauce and tossed with your favorite pasta. Garnished with fresh basil, this comforting dish balances rich flavors and simple ingredients for an irresistible dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 4 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
Garnish
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Cook Chicken and Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the cubed chicken breast and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Make Creamy Parmesan Sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet with the chicken and garlic. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes creamy, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce and chicken. Toss well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce and chicken pieces are well distributed.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat. Serve the garlic butter chicken bites with creamy Parmesan pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smoother sauce.
- If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- Cook the garlic gently to avoid burning and bitterness.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrition.
- This recipe can be doubled for larger gatherings or meal prep.
