Name: Irresistibly Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds chicken breasts, cubed; 1 teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 tablespoons butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 8 ounces pasta (any type); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

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There’s something incredibly comforting about a plate of Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta. I still remember those cozy evenings at home, where the aroma of garlic wafted through the air like a warm hug, signaling that dinner was almost ready. It was a family favorite, combining juicy chicken bites with a luscious, creamy sauce that even the pickiest eaters couldn't resist.

This quick and easy recipe not only captures that nostalgia but guarantees a delicious meal on your table in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a family-friendly meal that brings everyone together without sacrificing flavor. Plus, the versatility of this dish means you can easily customize the type of pasta to suit your mood or what's on hand, making it meal-prep friendly too. So grab your skillet and let’s bring that heartwarming goodness back to your dining room!

How can Garlic Butter Chicken Bites transform dinner?

Imagine the sizzling sound of tender chicken bites bathing in a luscious garlic butter sauce, their golden edges glistening under a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan. This dish doesn’t just fill your stomach; it fills your heart with warmth and comfort. For an additional fast and flavorful option, consider trying out these delightful chicken feta pasta bites as well! With every bite, you’ll be reminded of why homemade meals reign supreme, bringing everyone to the table with smiles.

Ingredients

Full measurements are in the recipe card below.

For the Chicken
• Chicken Breasts (cubed) – The main protein; cubing helps with even cooking and quicker prep time.
• Paprika – Adds a delightful hint of smokiness, enhancing the flavor of the chicken.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to elevate the dish’s overall taste.

For the Sauce
• Butter – Provides richness and flavor; opt for unsalted to better control salt levels.
• Garlic Cloves (minced) – Freshly minced garlic infuses the sauce with savory depth and aroma.
• Heavy Cream – Forms the creamy base of the sauce; no substitutions suggested for the best result.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds umami and a touch of saltiness; fresh grated cheese works best.

For the Pasta
• Pasta (your choice) – Acts as the hearty foundation of the dish; any type can be used, just follow package instructions.
• Olive Oil – Used for sautéing the chicken for perfect browning and to prevent sticking.

For Garnish
• Fresh Parsley – Adds a pop of color and freshness; sprinkle it on top just before serving.

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling a pot of salted water and cooking your chosen pasta according to the package instructions. Once al dente, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken, seasoning it with paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked through.
Infuse the Garlic: Lower the heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until fragrant, approximately 1-2 minutes. Then, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter along with the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously for about 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Combine Pasta & Chicken: Toss the cooked pasta into the creamy sauce, giving it a gentle stir to coat the pasta. Then, add the garlic butter chicken bites back into the skillet, combining everything well.
Garnish & Serve: Finish by garnishing your dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!

Optional: Add a splash of reserved pasta water to the sauce if it's too thick.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Perfect Chicken Bites: Ensure even cooking by cutting chicken breasts into uniform sizes; this will prevent some pieces from being overcooked while others remain undercooked.

Fresh Garlic Matters: Use freshly minced garlic for the best flavor; pre-minced garlic can lose its robust taste and aroma, affecting your sauce.

Pasta Perfection: Don't forget to reserve some pasta water before draining; this starchy water can help adjust the sauce consistency later if needed.

Sauce Thickness: If your creamy sauce thickens too quickly, add a splash of the reserved pasta water gradually until you achieve your desired consistency.

Ending Touches: Garnish generously with fresh parsley just before serving, as this not only enhances the look but adds a burst of freshness to your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta.

How to Store and Freeze Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Fridge: Store leftover garlic butter chicken bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze chicken bites in a sealed freezer bag for up to 2 months. Label the bag with the date for easy reference.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight. Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or cream to maintain moisture.

Serving Tip: Pair reheated chicken bites with freshly cooked pasta to revive the dish and keep it mouthwatering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What makes Garlic Butter Chicken Bites kid-friendly?
A: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are tender, flavorful, and easy to eat! Their creamy sauce paired with pasta makes them appealing to kids, ensuring family dinner supports everyone’s tastes.

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! You can easily adapt Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta to your favorite pasta shape, such as penne or fettuccine, making it versatile for any meal.

Q: How long will the leftovers last in the fridge?
A: Leftover Garlic Butter Chicken Bites can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, ensuring you can enjoy that deliciousness again quickly!

Q: Is there a way to make the sauce even creamier?
A: For creamier Garlic Butter Chicken Bites, consider adding a bit more heavy cream while stirring the sauce, or incorporating a touch of cream cheese for richness!