Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Description:
This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the perfect comfort meal. Tender chicken bites cooked in a rich, savory garlic butter sauce are paired with a luscious, creamy Parmesan pasta. It’s quick to make, full of flavor, and sure to become a family favorite. The chicken is golden and juicy, while the pasta soaks up the delicious creamy sauce, making each bite irresistible. This dish is ideal for busy weeknights or a special dinner!
Storage and Reheating Tips:
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the dish in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Stir occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, to prevent drying out.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz pasta of your choice (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne work great)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
- Season the chicken: Sprinkle the chicken pieces with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook the chicken: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Cook the pasta: While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Make the creamy sauce: Once the chicken is cooked, lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the cream to warm through. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine the pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it to coat evenly in the creamy sauce. Let the pasta simmer for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Transfer the creamy garlic butter chicken pasta to serving plates. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
20 FAQs About Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast? Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a more tender and juicy option.
- What kind of pasta should I use? Any pasta will work, but spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne are ideal for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Can I use a dairy-free alternative for the heavy cream? Yes, you can use coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream substitute.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? If you use gluten-free pasta, this dish can be made gluten-free.
- How can I make the dish spicier? Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the garlic and butter while sautéing.
- Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can make it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat with a little cream or milk.
- Can I freeze this recipe? The pasta and chicken can be frozen, but the cream sauce may separate when reheating. It’s best to make it fresh.
- How do I make the sauce thicker? To thicken the sauce, you can add more Parmesan cheese or a cornstarch slurry (mix cornstarch with water).
- Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe? Yes, pre-cooked chicken can be added to the skillet with the garlic and butter, then proceed with the sauce.
- Can I substitute Parmesan with another cheese? Yes, you can use Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even mozzarella for a different flavor.
- Can I use olive oil instead of butter? Yes, olive oil can replace butter for a lighter dish, though the flavor will be slightly different.
- How can I make the dish lighter? Use half-and-half or a reduced-fat cream, and consider a lower-calorie pasta option like zucchini noodles.
- What can I serve with this dish? A simple side salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread would pair wonderfully.
- How do I keep the chicken from drying out? Make sure not to overcook the chicken; it should be golden brown and cooked through but still moist.
- Can I add vegetables to this recipe? Yes, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli would be great additions.
- How long does this dish take to make? This dish takes about 20-30 minutes from start to finish.
- Can I make this recipe dairy-free? Yes, substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free version, and use a non-dairy cheese.
- What type of garlic should I use? Fresh garlic cloves are best for this recipe. Pre-minced garlic can be used in a pinch but won’t have the same flavor.
- Is this recipe spicy? No, the recipe is not spicy, but you can add spice by including red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
- Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double the ingredients to serve more people.
20 Tips for Making the Best Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- Use room temperature chicken for even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan while cooking the chicken to ensure it browns properly.
- Toast the garlic in the butter until fragrant but not burnt to avoid bitterness.
- Add the cream slowly to the skillet to create a smooth sauce.
- Grate your own Parmesan instead of using pre-shredded cheese for a smoother sauce.
- Reserve pasta water before draining to help adjust the sauce consistency later.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente so it doesn’t get mushy.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning before combining with pasta.
- Use a large skillet so the chicken has enough room to cook evenly.
- Sear the chicken on high heat for the first 2-3 minutes for a crispy golden crust.
- Let the sauce simmer gently to thicken without separating.
- Use freshly minced garlic for the best flavor.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the sauce for a touch of acidity and freshness.
- Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor in the sauce.
- Toss the pasta in the sauce for a few minutes to absorb the creamy flavors.
- Make sure to check the pasta seasoning; a little salt in the water can elevate the flavor.
- Serve immediately for the best texture, as the pasta can absorb too much sauce over time.
- Consider using a non-stick skillet to prevent the butter from burning and sticking.
- Top with extra Parmesan before serving for added flavor and presentation.
- Garnish with fresh parsley just before serving for color and a fresh burst of flavor.
Enjoy this rich and comforting dish that’s guaranteed to impress with its savory garlic butter chicken and creamy Parmesan sauce!
