Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make meal that your whole family will love? Look no further than garlic butter chicken bites with creamy parmesan pasta! This dish combines tender chicken bites sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce, served over a bed of creamy parmesan pasta. It’s a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds dance.

The Appeal of This Recipe

This recipe is not just about taste; it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, enjoying a family meal, or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, these garlic butter chicken bites will fit the bill. The creamy parmesan pasta complements the savory chicken perfectly, making it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or herbs.

Why Garlic Butter Chicken Bites?

Garlic butter chicken bites are not only delicious but also packed with flavor. The combination of garlic and butter creates a rich sauce that enhances the natural taste of the chicken. When paired with creamy parmesan pasta, it transforms into a comforting meal that feels indulgent yet is simple to prepare.

For those who want to dive deeper into the health benefits of garlic, check out this informative article on Health Benefits of Garlic. Garlic is known for its numerous health benefits, including boosting the immune system and reducing blood pressure.

The Creamy Parmesan Pasta

The creamy parmesan pasta is the perfect accompaniment to the garlic butter chicken bites. The creaminess of the sauce, combined with the sharpness of the parmesan, creates a delightful contrast to the savory chicken. This pasta dish is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to make, making it a favorite in many households.

Ingredients

To make garlic butter chicken bites with creamy parmesan pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients

• Chicken: 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces. Chicken breast is lean and cooks quickly, making it ideal for this recipe.
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced. Fresh garlic adds a robust flavor that is essential to the dish.
• Butter: 4 tablespoons. Use unsalted butter for better control over the seasoning.
• Parmesan cheese: 1 cup, grated. Freshly grated parmesan will melt better and provide a richer flavor.
• Pasta: 8 ounces of fettuccine or your preferred pasta. Fettuccine holds the sauce well, but you can use any pasta shape you like.

Optional Ingredients

• Herbs: Fresh parsley or basil for garnish. Fresh herbs brighten up the dish and add a pop of color.
• Vegetables: Spinach or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition. These can be sautéed with the chicken or added to the pasta.
• Spices: Paprika and black pepper for seasoning. These spices enhance the flavor profile of the dish.

Directions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the preparation steps for this mouthwatering dish.

Preparation Steps

1. Marinate the Chicken Bites
   • In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to enhance the flavor. Marinating allows the chicken to absorb the garlic flavor, making each bite delicious.
2. Cook the Chicken
   • In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken bites and cook until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
   • In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Gradually whisk in the grated parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. The key to a successful sauce is to whisk continuously to prevent clumping. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook the Pasta
   • Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve a cup of pasta water. Cooking the pasta al dente ensures it retains some bite and doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the sauce.
5. Combine Everything
   • Add the cooked pasta to the creamy parmesan sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. The starchy pasta water helps to bind the sauce to the pasta and enhances the overall texture. Finally, return the chicken bites to the skillet and mix everything together.
6. Plating and Serving Suggestions
   • Serve the dish hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil. This adds a burst of color and freshness that elevates the dish. This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

For tips on cooking pasta perfectly, refer to this guide on How to Cook Pasta Perfectly. Cooking pasta al dente ensures the right texture and prevents it from becoming mushy.

Pro Tips

To make your cooking experience even better, here are some pro tips:

• Cooking Tips
  • Ensure the chicken is tender and juicy by not overcrowding the skillet. Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can cause the chicken to steam instead of sear, resulting in less flavor.
  • To achieve the perfect creamy sauce, add the parmesan gradually and stir continuously to prevent clumping. If you find the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up.
• Storage Suggestions
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish reheats well, making it great for meal prep.
  • Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving for extended periods, as this can dry out the chicken and pasta.

Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional value of your meals is essential for maintaining a healthy diet. Here’s a breakdown of the calories and health benefits of the key ingredients in this dish:

• Caloric Breakdown
  • One serving of garlic butter chicken bites with creamy parmesan pasta contains approximately 600-700 calories, depending on portion sizes and additional ingredients. This makes it a hearty meal that can satisfy your hunger without being overly indulgent.
• Health Benefits
  • Garlic: Known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, garlic can help improve heart health. It also has antibacterial properties that can boost your immune system.
  • Chicken: A great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Protein is vital for maintaining a healthy metabolism and supporting overall bodily functions.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Provides calcium and protein, contributing to bone health and muscle function. It also adds a delicious umami flavor that enhances the overall dish.

Irresistible Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Over Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Print Recipe

Indulge in this delicious dish featuring tender garlic butter chicken bites served over creamy parmesan pasta.

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Chicken Bites:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

• 8 ounces fettuccine or your preferred pasta
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken:
   • In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   • In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Gradually whisk in grated parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook the Pasta:
   • Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve a cup of pasta water.
5. Combine:
   • Add cooked pasta to the creamy sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency. Return chicken to the skillet and mix everything together.
6. Serve:
   • Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil.

Notes

• For added flavor, sauté vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes with the chicken.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Author: Victoria
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 1.5 cups)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions about making garlic butter chicken bites with creamy parmesan pasta:

• Can I use other types of pasta?
  Yes, you can substitute any pasta you prefer, such as penne, spaghetti, or gluten-free options. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the type of pasta you choose.
• What can I substitute for parmesan cheese?
  If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor. Alternatively, use pecorino romano or another hard cheese that melts well.
• How do I make this dish gluten-free?
  Simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure that the other ingredients, like butter and chicken, are gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free pasta that tastes great and holds up well in sauces.
• Can I prepare this dish in advance?
  Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Just combine everything right before serving. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining guests.
• What vegetables can I add?
  You can add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even broccoli for added nutrition. Sauté the vegetables with the chicken for a complete meal.

Conclusion

In conclusion, garlic butter chicken bites with creamy parmesan pasta is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and comforting textures. Not only is it easy to make, but it also offers versatility for various occasions. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your experiences with family and friends.

Don’t forget to experiment with different ingredients and make it your own. Whether you’re adding seasonal vegetables or trying different types of pasta, the possibilities are endless. This dish is sure to become a staple in your home, providing warmth and satisfaction with every bite.

So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to create a meal that everyone will rave about. Happy cooking!