Discover the ultimate comfort meal with this dreamy Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe. Imagine tender, juicy chicken bites kissed with garlic butter nestled atop perfectly coated pasta ribbons drenched in a luxuriously smooth Parmesan cream sauce. Every bite bursts with rich flavors that feel like a warm hug on a plate, making it a perfect go-to dinner for family gatherings or a cozy night in. Simple ingredients come together to create an unforgettable dish that’s both elegant and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step toward culinary magic. Each item brings its own unique touch, whether it’s the savory aroma of garlic, the richness of butter and cream, or the sharp, tangy bite of Parmesan cheese. Together, they create the harmony that defines this delectable meal.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized cubes for quick and even cooking with maximum flavor absorption.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Used for the garlic butter chicken, it adds richness and a silky texture.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Provides that irresistible aromatic base that elevates both chicken and sauce.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: Brings herby undertones that complement the garlic and butter beautifully.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance every element of the dish.
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne): Pick your favorite pasta shape to soak up the creamy sauce perfectly.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: For the sauce, adding depth and smoothness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the creamy Parmesan sauce with bold garlic flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, velvety texture that ties the sauce together.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: This is the star that gives the sauce its signature sharp, savory finish.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or pasta water): Adds moisture and helps achieve the perfect sauce consistency.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and fresh herbaceous notes to brighten the dish.
How to Make Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start with a large pot of well-salted boiling water to cook the pasta according to package directions. This simple step sets the base for your dish. Remember to reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining; it’s a secret ingredient that helps loosen the sauce later, ensuring every strand is perfectly coated.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Chicken
While the pasta cooks, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chicken cubes, then sprinkle with dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken turns golden brown and is cooked through—about 6 to 8 minutes. This creates flavorful, tender bites that steal the spotlight in this recipe.
Step 3: Infuse with Garlic
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook just long enough for its rich aroma to come alive, about 1 to 2 minutes. Then, transfer the chicken to a plate to rest. These garlic butter chicken bites are the foundation of the dish’s heartwarming flavor.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, melt another 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat and add the garlic for 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine them smoothly. Let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens slightly, building the luscious base of your sauce.
Step 5: Add Parmesan and Season
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese gradually, seasoning the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce achieves a silky, smooth consistency that’s irresistible.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta to your skillet and toss it gently in the creamy Parmesan sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, don’t be shy about adding a little of that reserved pasta water to loosen it. This ensures every bite is perfectly coated in that heavenly, creamy goodness.
Step 7: Return the Chicken Bites
Bring back those garlic butter chicken bites into the skillet. Toss everything together, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to warm through, completing this spectacular dish.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Once everything is combined, it’s time to plate. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of vibrant green color and a hint of freshness that balances the rich sauce beautifully.
How to Serve Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley is the perfect touch to finish this dish; it adds an inviting color contrast and a subtle herby note that cuts through the richness. A sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese on the side is always a welcome extra.
Side Dishes
This creamy masterpiece pairs wonderfully with light, crisp sides like a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli. These options add freshness and texture without competing with the pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this dish in elegant shallow bowls that will keep the sauce from spreading too thin. For a fun twist, plate the pasta with a sprinkle of chili flakes for heat or a drizzle of truffle oil to elevate the experience. It’s also perfect for family-style serving in a large pasta bowl garnished with herbs for a friendly, comforting meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta and chicken will soak up the sauce overnight, which can make it thicker but even more flavorful.
Freezing
This dish doesn’t freeze as well because the cream sauce can change texture after thawing. For best results, freeze only the cooked chicken bites separately and prepare fresh sauce and pasta when ready to serve.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. This prevents it from drying out and helps bring back that fresh, creamy texture you fell in love with.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?
While Parmesan is key for its signature flavor, you can experiment with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or a mix of cheeses like Asiago. Just keep in mind the texture and saltiness may vary.
What pasta shape works best for this recipe?
Fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti are ideal because they hold the creamy sauce well. However, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape—it’s all about what you enjoy most!
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative, use coconut cream or a plant-based cream substitute, and try nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for cheesy flavor.
How can I make the chicken more flavorful?
Marinate the chicken bites in a little olive oil, garlic, and herbs before cooking, or add a splash of lemon juice or white wine to the skillet for extra brightness and depth.
Can this recipe be doubled for a larger crowd?
Absolutely! Just increase all ingredients proportionally and use a larger skillet or cook in batches. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to scale up for family dinners or parties.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe enough—it really hits all the right notes for a comforting, flavorful meal that feels special yet comes together effortlessly. Whether for a busy weeknight or weekend treat, this dish will soon become a beloved staple you’ll want to make again and again. So grab your skillet, gather those ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a plateful of pure deliciousness!
Print
Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Garlic Butter Chicken Bites is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken pieces sautéed in garlic butter, nestled atop a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce tossed with your choice of pasta. Perfectly seasoned with Italian herbs and garnished with fresh parsley, it’s a satisfying meal ready in under 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken and Garlic Butter
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta and Sauce
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or pasta water)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Make the garlic butter chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat 3 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken cubes and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Add garlic to chicken: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Prepare the creamy Parmesan sauce: In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute to release the aroma.
- Add cream and broth: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add Parmesan and season: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce, tossing until well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to thin it out.
- Add chicken back in: Return the cooked garlic butter chicken bites to the skillet and toss everything together to combine evenly.
- Serve and garnish: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot for a delicious and creamy pasta dinner.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken broth with reserved pasta water for a lighter sauce.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for best melting and flavor.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your taste preferences.
- Fresh parsley adds a fresh color and subtle flavor, garnish just before serving.
- Use any pasta shape you like, but long noodles like spaghetti or fettuccine work particularly well for this sauce.
