Let me tell you about one of my absolute favorite meals that’s become a weeknight staple in my house: garlic butter chicken bites with creamy parmesan pasta. Seriously, if you’re looking for a dish that’s quick, delicious, and feels like a warm hug on a plate, this is it! The tender chicken bites, bathed in rich garlic butter, paired with creamy parmesan pasta is a match made in heaven. What I love most is that it comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll be on rotation in your meal planning because it’s just that good! Plus, it’s a hit with the whole family—there’s nothing better than hearing those happy little noises around the dinner table!

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (the more, the merrier!)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 oz pasta of your choice (I love using fettuccine or penne!)
• 1 cup heavy cream (for that luscious, creamy texture)
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese (freshly grated adds so much flavor)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for a pop of color and freshness)

How to Prepare Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Cook the Pasta

Let’s start with the pasta, shall we? Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil. You want it nice and bubbly! Once it’s boiling, add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions. For most pasta types, this is usually around 8-10 minutes. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t get mushy—nobody likes overcooked pasta! A little tip: taste a piece a minute or two before the time is up. You want it to be al dente, which means it should have a little bite to it. Once it’s done, drain it and set it aside, but don’t rinse it! We want that starch to help the sauce stick later.

Sauté the Chicken

Now, let’s get to the good stuff—the chicken! In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. As it starts to sizzle, toss in your bite-sized chicken pieces. Season them generously with salt, pepper, and that delightful Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know it’s done when the juices run clear, and it’s no longer pink in the center. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Don’t worry about the bits left in the pan; they’ll add flavor to your sauce!

Prepare the Creamy Sauce

Using the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt. Then, add in the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute—just until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn it; burnt garlic is a total bummer! Now, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Keep stirring; this is where the magic happens! If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up.

Combine Ingredients

Alright, it’s time to bring everything together! Add your cooked pasta and sautéed chicken back into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together until every piece is well coated. If it looks a little dry, don’t hesitate to add more cream or a bit of that reserved pasta water. You want it to be creamy but not soupy—just the right consistency to cling to that pasta!

Serve and Garnish

Now for the best part—serving it up! Spoon the creamy garlic butter chicken pasta into bowls, and don’t forget to sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for that lovely pop of color. It’s not just for looks; it adds a fresh flavor that brightens everything up! Serve it while it’s hot, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!

Nutritional Information

Before we dig into the deliciousness, let’s talk about the nutrition! Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, but here’s a general idea of what one serving of garlic butter chicken bites with creamy parmesan pasta contains:

• Calories: 600
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 150mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 30g

This meal is not just tasty; it’s also packed with protein, making it a filling option for any dinner! Enjoy it guilt-free, and remember, you can always adjust the ingredients to suit your dietary needs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver for busy weeknights!
• Flavor Explosion: The rich garlic butter and creamy parmesan sauce create an irresistible flavor combination that will leave you wanting more.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore these garlic butter chicken bites. It’s a hit at the dinner table!
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or switch up the pasta type to suit your taste.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup is always a plus! Most of this recipe is made in one skillet, so you can enjoy your meal and relax afterward.
• Comfort Food: It’s a warm, hearty dish that feels like a cozy hug with every bite, perfect for any time you’re craving comfort food.

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your garlic butter chicken bites with creamy parmesan pasta turn out absolutely perfect! Here are some handy tips that I swear by:

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: This is key! Keep an eye on your chicken while it cooks. Once it’s golden brown and the juices run clear, it’s done. Overcooked chicken can turn rubbery, and nobody wants that!
• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Whenever possible, use fresh garlic and freshly grated parmesan cheese. They make a world of difference in flavor. Trust me, you’ll taste the love!
• Salt Your Pasta Water: When boiling your pasta, don’t skimp on the salt. It should taste like the ocean! This is your chance to season the pasta from the inside out.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Before you drain your pasta, save a cup of that starchy pasta water. It’s a secret weapon for adjusting your sauce’s consistency later on!
• Adjust the Creaminess: If your sauce feels too thick after adding the pasta, just stir in a bit of that reserved pasta water. You want a creamy coating, not a soup!
• Taste as You Go: Don’t be shy! Taste your sauce as you make it. You can always add a bit more seasoning if needed. This is where your personal touch comes in!
• Garnish Generously: Fresh parsley not only looks pretty but also adds a pop of flavor. So don’t hold back—sprinkle some on top before serving!

These little tips will help you nail this recipe every time. Cooking should be fun, so relax and enjoy the process! You’ve got this!

Variations

One of the best things about garlic butter chicken bites with creamy parmesan pasta is how wonderfully adaptable it is! You can easily mix things up to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add Veggies: Boost the nutrition and color of your dish by tossing in some fresh veggies! Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli work beautifully. Just sauté them in the skillet for a few minutes before adding the garlic and cream.
• Change Up the Pasta: While I love fettuccine, you can use any pasta you fancy! Penne, rigatoni, or even whole wheat options can give a different spin on the texture and flavor.
• Spice It Up: If you’re a fan of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic. It’ll add a nice kick to the creamy sauce!
• Herb It Up: Don’t hesitate to experiment with fresh herbs! Basil, thyme, or even oregano can complement the flavors of the dish wonderfully. Just toss them in right before serving for that fresh pop.
• Swap the Protein: Not a chicken fan? No problem! Try this recipe with shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is cooked perfectly.
• Cheesy Variations: For an even cheesier dish, mix in some mozzarella or a sprinkle of feta cheese right before serving. It’s gooey goodness that everyone will love!

These variations make this recipe fun and versatile, so feel free to get creative! Cooking is all about personal taste, and I encourage you to make it your own. Enjoy experimenting!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Got leftovers? Don’t worry, this garlic butter chicken bites with creamy parmesan pasta stores beautifully! Here’s how to keep it fresh and delicious for your next meal.

First, let the dish cool down to room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent condensation, which can make it soggy. Once it’s cooled, transfer your leftovers into an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to save it for longer, you can also freeze it! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container, and it should last up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Now, for reheating: If you’re using the microwave, place a serving in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel. This helps keep the moisture in. Heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it’s heated through. Just be careful not to overheat it, or your chicken might get a little tough!

If you prefer to use the stovetop, you can reheat it in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of cream or a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen it up as it heats, stirring gently until it’s warmed through. This method helps keep that creamy texture we love!

And remember, always check the temperature before serving to ensure it’s piping hot. Enjoy those delicious leftovers just as much as the first time around!

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try these garlic butter chicken bites with creamy parmesan pasta! It’s one of those recipes that not only fills your belly but also warms your heart. I promise it’ll become a favorite in your home just like it is in mine! The combination of flavors is simply irresistible, and I can already hear the happy chatter around your dinner table.

I’d love to hear how your dish turns out! Feel free to share your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or even your family’s reactions in the comments below. Cooking is all about sharing, and I’m here for all your culinary adventures! So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to whip up this delightful meal. Happy cooking!

For more information on the health benefits of garlic, check out this Healthline article.

To learn more about the nutritional value of pasta, visit this NCBI study.

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Bliss

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Garlic butter chicken bites served with creamy parmesan pasta.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 oz pasta of your choice
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
3. Add the chicken bites to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
4. Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
6. Add the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
7. Stir in the parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
8. Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet. Toss until everything is well coated.
9. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

• Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it tender.
• Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor.
• You can add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 600
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 150mg

Keywords: garlic butter chicken bites, creamy parmesan pasta, Ree Drummond recipe