Introduction
This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe is the perfect balance of comfort and flavor.
Juicy, golden chicken bites are coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, then paired with silky, creamy Parmesan pasta. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but tastes like something from your favorite restaurant!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Bites
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta
12 oz fettuccine (or pasta of your choice)
2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup chicken broth
Salt and pepper, to taste
Extra garlic butter (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken Bites
Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for 4–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked.
Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for another 1–2 minutes, tossing the chicken to coat it in the garlic butter.
Remove chicken from the pan and set aside, leaving any leftover sauce in the pan.
3. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
In the same pan, melt 2 tablespoons butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
Add grated Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring until melted and smooth.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Return the garlic butter chicken bites to the pan and toss everything together.
5. Serve
Drizzle with extra garlic butter if desired, and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
Serve hot with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad.
How to Make (Summary)
Cook pasta → Sear chicken → Make garlic butter → Prepare creamy Parmesan sauce → Combine → Garnish → Serve and enjoy!
Variations
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne to the chicken for a touch of heat.
Veggie Boost: Stir in spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms into the pasta for extra texture and nutrition.
Cheese Lovers: Mix in mozzarella or asiago for extra creamy richness.
Protein Swap: Try shrimp, salmon, or tofu instead of chicken for a fun twist.
Tips
Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing chicken—cook in batches if needed for the best golden crust.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother sauce (pre-grated often clumps).
Add the cream off the heat if you want to avoid curdling.
Adjust consistency with pasta water — it gives your sauce that glossy, restaurant-style finish.
For richer flavor, use a mix of butter and olive oil when cooking.
Conclusion
Creamy, garlicky, and buttery — this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate comfort meal. It’s quick to make, loaded with flavor, and guaranteed to impress anyone at your table. One bite, and you’ll be hooked!