Hey y’all! If you’re on the hunt for a dish that ticks all the boxes for taste, ease, and elegance, look no further than these Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta. It’s a delightful fusion of juicy chicken and a creamy, cheesy pasta that’s just perfect for casual gatherings or fancy dinners. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- Quick and Easy: Comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
- Rich and Flavorful: The garlic butter sauce infuses the chicken with incredible depth.
- Family-Friendly: A dish that both kids and adults will love.
- Customizable: Easy to tweak to suit your dietary preferences.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 12 ounces pasta of your choice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Directions
1. Prepare the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Add Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.
4. Combine Ingredients
Return the chicken to the skillet and coat with the sauce. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until thoroughly combined. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
- For an extra burst of flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic. Learn more about how spices enhance your dishes.
- Grating your own Parmesan results in a creamier sauce. Discover why freshly grated cheese melts better here.
Variations
- Herb Chicken Pasta: Add fresh basil and oregano for an herbaceous twist.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate sliced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken for mushrooms or tofu.
Required Equipment
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Colander
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.
Suggested Pairings
Serve your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta alongside a crisp green salad and a glass of your favorite white wine for a complete meal.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor impact. Learn how to properly mince garlic here.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking chicken to ensure even browning.
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed.
FAQ
- Can I use pre-cooked chicken? Yes, pre-cooked chicken can be used; just add it to the sauce to warm through.
- What type of pasta works best? Penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti are great choices for this dish.
- How can I make this dish gluten-free? Substitute with gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.