Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a mouthwatering, comforting dish that combines juicy, golden-seared chicken with a rich, cheesy pasta sauce. It’s packed with flavor from garlic, butter, and Parmesan, and it’s one of my favorite meals to make when I want something cozy and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dish blends bold garlic-butter flavor with the richness of a creamy Parmesan pasta. The chicken bites are seared to perfection—crispy on the outside and juicy inside—while the pasta is smooth and cheesy. It’s a full meal in one, and it comes together easily, making it perfect for weeknights or a casual dinner with friends.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)

• Salt and pepper

• Paprika (optional)

• Olive oil

• Butter

• Garlic (minced)

• Pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your favorite type)

• Heavy cream

• Chicken broth

• Grated Parmesan cheese

• Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

Directions

1. I start by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika.

2. In a large skillet, I heat olive oil and sear the chicken bites until golden brown and cooked through. I remove them and set them aside.

3. In the same skillet, I melt butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant.

4. I pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, letting it simmer gently before stirring in Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and smooth.

5. Meanwhile, I cook the pasta in salted water according to the package directions and drain it.

6. I return the chicken to the skillet and add the cooked pasta, tossing everything together so the sauce coats evenly.

7. I finish with a sprinkle of parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6 people. It takes about 15 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook, so the whole dish is ready in about 40 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the pasta for extra flavor and color. For a smoky twist, I use smoked paprika or add a bit of crumbled bacon. If I want to lighten the sauce, I replace part of the cream with milk or use half-and-half.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. When reheating, I warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce and keep everything creamy.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, I’ve used leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken before. I just warm it in the garlic butter and mix it into the pasta.

What’s the best pasta for this dish?

I usually go with penne or fettuccine, but any type of pasta works as long as it holds the sauce well.

Can I make this without heavy cream?

Yes, I’ve used half-and-half or a mix of milk and a bit of butter for a lighter version. It’s still creamy and flavorful.

How do I keep the chicken juicy?

I don’t overcook it—just a few minutes per side in a hot skillet is enough. Letting it rest for a few minutes before adding it back to the sauce helps too.

Can I freeze this dish?

I don’t recommend freezing it, since the creamy sauce may separate when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored short-term in the fridge.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta is one of my favorite comfort meals—rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. The garlic butter chicken and creamy pasta come together in perfect harmony, making every bite a delicious experience. Whether I’m cooking for family or just treating myself, this dish never disappoints.

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