Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

This dish comes together quickly, and the flavors meld perfectly to create a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Follow these steps to make the magic happen!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. Be sure to save about a cup of pasta water in case you need to adjust the sauce later.

Step 2: Cook the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter is melted, add the chicken pieces to the skillet in a single layer. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.

Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and the garlic has softened.

Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. You can keep it covered to stay warm while you make the creamy Parmesan pasta.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, add another 2 tablespoons of butter. Allow it to melt and get slightly bubbly, then pour in the heavy cream. Stir the cream to combine with the butter and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.

Once the cream has thickened, add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder (optional), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir constantly until the cheese is fully melted, and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy Parmesan sauce and toss to coat the pasta in the rich sauce. Once the pasta is fully coated, add the cooked garlic butter chicken bites back to the skillet. Gently toss everything together to combine.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Serve the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta on plates and garnish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness. You can also add an extra sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top for even more cheesy goodness.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

• Chicken Alternatives: If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for more flavor and tenderness. Just be sure to cook them through properly.
• Pasta Choice: While this recipe works with any pasta you like, fettuccine or penne are particularly good choices, as they hold the creamy sauce well.
• Make It Lighter: For a lighter version, you can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream cheese for a slightly healthier twist.
• Add Veggies: Feel free to add some sautéed vegetables, like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli, to make the dish even more colorful and nutritious.

Why This Dish Works So Well

• Flavors That Work Together: The garlic butter chicken adds rich and savory flavors, while the creamy Parmesan pasta provides a smooth, cheesy base. The combination of both creates a harmonious dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Comforting Yet Elegant: It’s the kind of meal that feels both comforting and special. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or even a romantic date night at home.
• Quick and Simple: Despite its indulgent flavors, this dish is easy to make. The creamy pasta and garlic butter chicken are both quick to prepare, so you can have dinner on the table in about 30 minutes.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the perfect dish for any occasion. It’s rich, satisfying, and bursting with flavor—plus, it’s easy to make with just a few ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this meal is sure to be a hit. With tender chicken, creamy pasta, and a garlicky kick, this recipe is one you’ll want to make again and again.

So grab your ingredients, fire up the stove, and enjoy a comforting, flavorful dinner that’s bound to become one of your favorite go-to recipes!