These garlic butter chicken bites are juicy and packed with flavor, making them a perfect dinner hit! They come together quickly and pair wonderfully with creamy Parmesan pasta.
I can’t resist sneaking bites of chicken while I cook! 😋 This meal is easy and sure to impress your family or friends. Serve it with a side salad, and you’ve got a winner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lean option, but thighs can add extra moisture and flavor. If you have leftover cooked chicken, that works too! Just warm it in the garlic butter.
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. If you prefer, you can use ghee or a dairy-free butter substitute to make it suitable for different diets.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder—about 1/8 teaspoon per clove—but it won’t have the same punch!
Pasta: Fettuccine and linguine are great choices, but any pasta shape you like will do. Zucchini noodles or whole wheat pasta are healthy alternatives if you’re looking for something different.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully into the sauce. Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano can work as substitutes too if you need a change!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Bites Stay Juicy?
Cooking chicken bites to perfection is key. Here’s how:
- First, make sure your chicken pieces are evenly sized for uniform cooking.
- Heat the skillet well; this helps achieve that lovely golden color.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan, as it can lead to steaming rather than browning. Cook in batches if needed.
- Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and don’t overcook to keep them tender.
If you follow these tips, you’ll have succulent, flavorful garlic butter chicken bites every time!
What’s the Best Way to Make Creamy Parmesan Sauce?
Crafting a creamy sauce can seem tricky, but with these steps, you’ll nail it:
- Use medium heat to prevent the cream from boiling too quickly, which can lead to separation.
- Whisk constantly after adding the cheese to keep it smooth. If it’s too thick, just add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Season gradually. Taste your sauce after adding each ingredient, so you can adjust it to your liking.
This approach ensures your sauce is rich and creamy every time!
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or your choice)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30-35 minutes total, with about 10 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes for cooking. You’ve got a quick and delicious dinner ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. Make sure to save a little pasta water in case you need it later!
2. Cook the Chicken Bites:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken bites in a single layer. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown and fully cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce for Chicken:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt. Return the cooked chicken bites to the skillet, tossing to coat them well in the garlic butter sauce. Remove from heat and keep warm while you make the pasta sauce.
4. Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, around 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Then, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you’re using them.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the creamy Parmesan sauce, tossing well to coat everything evenly. If you find the sauce is too thick for your liking, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
6. Serve:
To serve, plate the creamy Parmesan pasta and top it generously with the garlic butter chicken bites. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a beautiful finish. Enjoy your delicious, homemade Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta!
Bon appétit!
FAQ for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can add more flavor to the dish. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless for the best results in this recipe.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter (for every cup of cream, combine 3/4 cup milk with 1/4 cup melted butter) for a lighter version, though it may result in a less creamy texture.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can cook the chicken and pasta in advance, then combine them with the sauce when ready to serve. Just be sure to avoid overcooking the chicken during reheating!
