Introduction
If you’re looking for a meal that combines rich flavors, creamy textures, and comforting ingredients, look no further than Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta. This dish is a delightful blend of succulent chicken bites sautéed in a luscious garlic butter sauce, served over a bed of creamy, cheesy pasta. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s a recipe that pleases both adults and kids alike. Let’s explore how to make this mouthwatering dish step-by-step!
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)
Directions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add your pasta of choice, whether it be fettuccine or another type. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes, but be sure to check the package for exact timings. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving a little bit of the pasta water for later use if needed.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken Bites
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the bite-sized pieces of chicken, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. You can check for doneness by cutting into a piece; it should no longer be pink inside. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Using the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, reduce the heat to medium. Add the unsalted butter and allow it to melt completely. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently to prevent burning. The garlic should become fragrant and slightly golden. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it to coat in the garlic butter sauce. This will infuse the chicken with delicious garlic flavor, making it even more irresistible.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
In a separate skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds, allowing the garlic to release its flavor into the butter. Gradually stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic happens—whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese slowly until it’s fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting according to your preference. The sauce should be creamy and rich, perfect for coating the pasta.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Now it’s time to combine everything. Toss the cooked pasta into the creamy Parmesan sauce, ensuring each strand is well-coated. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. The goal is to have a silky, smooth sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
Step 6: Serve
To plate the dish, serve the creamy Parmesan pasta first, creating a generous base. Top it with the garlic butter chicken bites, allowing the buttery, garlicky goodness to drip onto the pasta. For an added touch, drizzle a little extra garlic butter over the top. Finally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Tips for Perfecting Your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- Chicken Variations: While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe, you can also use thighs for a juicier option. Just ensure they are cooked through.
- Pasta Choices: Fettuccine is traditional, but feel free to experiment with other types of pasta like penne, rigatoni, or even gluten-free options.
- Extra Flavor: For a kick of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the chicken or into the creamy sauce. This adds a delightful warmth to the dish.
- Herb Substitutions: If you don’t have fresh parsley on hand, you can use other fresh herbs like basil or thyme. These herbs complement the dish beautifully.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Make It Ahead: This dish can be partially prepared in advance. You can cook the chicken and pasta and store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, just heat everything together with the sauces.
Nutritional Information
While this dish is certainly a comfort food indulgence, it also provides some nutritional benefits. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health. The cream and cheese provide calcium, while the garlic adds not only flavor but also health benefits, including potential immune-boosting properties.
Serving Suggestions
To complement your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta, consider serving a simple side salad. A fresh arugula or spinach salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette can provide a nice contrast to the richness of the pasta. You might also enjoy some crusty garlic bread on the side to mop up the delicious sauces.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a dish that delivers on flavor, comfort, and ease of preparation. With its buttery chicken and creamy pasta, it’s a surefire hit for any dinner table. Whether you’re serving it for a family meal or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your culinary repertoire. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to savor every bite of this delicious dish! Happy cooking!
