This dish is a flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds. Picture juicy chunks of chicken coated in rich garlic butter, all served over a bed of creamy parmesan pasta that’s as comforting as a warm hug on a cold day. It’s the kind of meal that can turn an ordinary Tuesday evening into a gourmet experience worthy of a five-star restaurant.
Now, let me take you back to when I first made this dish for my family. The kitchen filled with the irresistible aroma of sizzling garlic and melted butter. My kids raced into the room like moths to a flame, their faces lighting up as they caught a whiff of dinner. Just one bite and I knew I had created something special; it quickly became a family favorite and the go-to recipe for impressing our guests.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These garlic butter chicken bites are simple yet packed with flavor and comfort
- The creamy parmesan pasta balances perfectly with the savory chicken
- It’s visually stunning and sure to impress anyone at your dining table
- You can customize it easily based on your pantry favorites or dietary needs
My cousin once declared it “the best thing since sliced bread” after devouring two plates in record time!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well; adjust based on your crowd size.
- Fresh Garlic: Peel several cloves for maximum flavor; fresh is always better than pre-minced.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter for control over saltiness; it adds richness to the sauce.
- Pasta (Fettuccine or Spaghetti): Choose your favorite type; it will soak up the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese gives the best flavor and texture; don’t skimp on this!
- Heavy Cream: For creaminess that makes you want to swoon; it takes this dish to another level.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that imparts an aromatic quality; it’s like Italian magic in your kitchen.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that will enhance all other flavors; use them generously but wisely.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare the Chicken Bites: Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season generously with salt and pepper so every piece shines with flavor.
Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt some butter until bubbly. Add minced garlic and sauté until golden brown—this takes about 1-2 minutes but smells divine.
Cook the Chicken: Toss in seasoned chicken pieces and stir frequently until they’re cooked through—about 7-10 minutes—making sure they get nicely golden on all sides.
Create the Cream Sauce: Once the chicken is done, pour in heavy cream and add grated parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and creamy—let it simmer for 3-5 minutes while you twirl around like you’re in a cooking show.
Boil Your Pasta: Meanwhile, cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain but reserve some pasta water—the secret ingredient should always be nearby!
Toss Together: Finally, combine cooked pasta with your luscious chicken mixture in the skillet. If needed, add reserved pasta water for extra creaminess before serving hot.
Enjoy every last bite of these Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with creamy parmesan pasta! It’s guaranteed to be gobbled up faster than you can say “seconds.”
You Must Know
- Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with creamy parmesan pasta combine rich flavors and textures that will elevate your dining experience
- The aroma of garlic and butter wafting through your kitchen is simply irresistible, setting the stage for a delightful meal
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken bites in garlic butter for a golden crust. While they cook, boil the pasta and prepare the creamy parmesan sauce simultaneously for maximum efficiency.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to enhance flavors and nutrition. You can also swap chicken for shrimp if you’re feeling adventurous!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream to revive the sauce.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh garlic for a robust flavor that dried garlic simply can’t match
- Make sure to not overcrowd the pan while searing; this allows proper browning
- Lastly, remember to taste your sauce before serving; adjust seasoning as needed!
Sharing this recipe always brings back fond memories of family gatherings when everyone would gather around, raving about how delicious dinner was. Nothing beats good food shared with loved ones!
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add more flavor and tenderness to the dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to your garlic butter for some heat.
What pasta works best with this recipe?
Fettuccine or penne are great choices for holding onto that creamy parmesan sauce beautifully.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in tender garlic butter chicken bites atop creamy parmesan pasta, creating a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté the minced garlic until golden brown (about 1-2 minutes).
- Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until golden and cooked through (7-10 minutes).
- Pour in heavy cream and stir in parmesan cheese; simmer for 3-5 minutes until creamy.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain, reserving some pasta water.
- Combine cooked pasta with the chicken mixture in the skillet, adding reserved pasta water as needed for creaminess. Serve hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
