If you’re looking for a comforting, easy-to-make meal that combines tender, garlicky chicken bites with rich, creamy Parmesan pasta, this recipe is for you. Perfect for busy weeknights or a special weekend dinner, Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta delivers big flavors in under an hour.
Here’s how to prepare this irresistible dish step by step.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30–40 minutes.
- One-Pan Convenience: The chicken and pasta come together seamlessly.
- Bursting with Flavor: Garlic, butter, and Parmesan create a creamy, savory masterpiece.
- Versatile: Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to make it your own.
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 oz (225 g) fettuccine or your favorite pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
INSTRUCTIONS:
Method
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Bites
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken bites with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6–8 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Reduce the heat to medium, add butter and minced garlic to the skillet, and stir until the garlic is fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Remove the chicken bites from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir until combined.
- Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy Parmesan sauce.
- Toss to coat the pasta evenly, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve your desired consistency.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta and top with the garlic butter chicken bites.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
