These Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are tender and full of flavor, sizzling with buttery goodness. Pair them with creamy Parmesan pasta, and you’ve got a winning combo!
Honestly, who can resist buttery, garlicky chicken? Plus, that creamy pasta just makes it all even better. It’s like a hug in a bowl! I love making it for quick family dinners.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra juiciness, but chicken breasts work too. If you want a lighter option, try using turkey breast or chickpeas for a vegetarian twist!
Butter: Unsalted butter lends a nice flavor, but you can substitute with olive oil or ghee if you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative. Just remember to adjust the salt accordingly!
Garlic: Fresh garlic really elevates this dish, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch—about 1/4 teaspoon per clove should do! If you’re not a garlic fan, try shallots for a milder onion flavor.
Pasta: Use your choice of pasta! I love fettuccine or penne for this dish, but even gluten-free pasta works great if needed. Just follow package instructions for cooking times.
Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a rich creaminess. If you can’t find it, Pecorino Romano is also delicious! For a non-dairy option, try a vegan cheese blend.
How Can I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked and Flavorful?
Getting the chicken just right is key! Here are my tips:
- Make sure to pat the chicken dry before seasoning—this helps with browning.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook the chicken in batches if needed. This helps it sear instead of steam!
- Cook on medium-high heat for that golden crust. Make sure to flip it halfway through for even cooking.
- The garlic should be added towards the end of cooking the chicken to prevent it from burning; just a minute or two is enough to release that fantastic flavor.
With these tips, your chicken bites will be flavorful and juicy, complementing the creamy pasta perfectly! Enjoy your cooking!
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or mixed oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This delightful dish takes about 30 minutes in total—10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. You’ll have a deliciously satisfying meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Don’t forget to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining! This can help thicken your sauce later if needed.
2. Prepare the Chicken Bites:
While the pasta is cooking, pat the chicken pieces dry with a paper towel. Season them well with salt, black pepper, and the Italian herbs. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, cooking until they are golden brown and cooked through—this should take about 5-7 minutes. After cooking, lower the heat and add 3 tablespoons of butter along with the minced garlic. Stir to coat the chicken in the delicious garlic butter, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove the skillet from the heat and keep the chicken warm.
3. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
In a large saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until you can smell that wonderful garlic aroma. Now, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and creates a smooth, creamy sauce. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want a little kick. If your sauce feels too thick, don’t worry—just add a tablespoon of the reserved pasta water at a time until it’s just right!
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Once the creamy sauce is ready, add the cooked pasta into the saucepan. Toss it gently to make sure every piece of pasta is coated with the luscious sauce.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out the creamy Parmesan pasta onto plates and then top it with the warm garlic butter chicken bites. Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for color and extra flavor. Serve this restaurant-worthy dish immediately and enjoy every bite!
This dish beautifully balances the rich, savory flavor of garlic butter chicken with creamy Parmesan pasta, making it a very indulgent yet straightforward meal. Enjoy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and add even more flavor to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed; ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No worries! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter sauce. Just keep in mind that the sauce may be less rich and creamy.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the creamy Parmesan sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to use, gently reheat it on the stove and add a splash of reserved pasta water to restore creaminess.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little cream or reserved pasta water if necessary to bring back the sauce’s consistency.
