Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken: You can use chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. I prefer thighs as they remain tender and juicy. If you’re avoiding meat, try using firm tofu cut into bite-sized pieces as a substitute.

Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal for better control over the saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, coconut oil or dairy-free margarine works well in seasoning the chicken.

Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for the best flavor, but you can opt for garlic powder if you’re in a pinch—just use about 1/4 teaspoon for every clove needed.

Pasta: While I suggest fettuccine or linguine for a classic pairing, you can use any pasta you like or have on hand, such as penne or spaghetti. Gluten-free pasta works great too!

Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is key for creaminess. If you’re vegan or lactose intolerant, look for nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or use vegan cheese alternatives.

How Do You Achieve Tender Chicken Bites?

Cooking the chicken just right makes a big difference. Start by using a skillet that’s preheated with olive oil. Season your chicken pieces liberally with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning before adding them to the hot pan. Give them space so they can brown nicely.

• Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally. You want a lovely golden color on the outside!
• Check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
• Don’t overcook! Removing them from the skillet as soon as they’re done will keep them juicy.

How Can You Make the Creamy Sauce Perfectly Smooth?

For a smooth creamy sauce, you’ll want to follow a few simple steps. Once your chicken is cooked and set aside, make sure you keep the heat on medium when adding garlic.

• Let the garlic sauté just until fragrant, then quickly stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth. This helps prevent the garlic from burning.
• Add the Parmesan gradually while stirring continuously to prevent clumping. This will keep your sauce silky and rich.
• If the sauce thickens too much, don’t hesitate to add reserved pasta water bit by bit until you reach your desired consistency.

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz (225g) fettuccine or linguine pasta
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup chicken broth or reserved pasta cooking water
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and about 20 minutes preparing and cooking the chicken and sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the fettuccine or linguine and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta, saving about ½ cup of the pasta water for later, and set it aside.

2. Sear the Chicken:

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. While the oil heats up, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Once hot, add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to turn the chicken occasionally to get a nice golden brown color and to ensure it’s cooked through. Once finished, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce:

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 3 tablespoons of butter. Let it melt, and then add the minced garlic, sautéing for about 1 minute or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!

4. Create the Creamy Sauce:

Next, pour in the heavy cream along with the chicken broth or the reserved pasta water. Stir well to combine everything. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer, and then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce thickens slightly. It should be creamy and luscious!

5. Combine Everything:

Return the cooked chicken bites to the skillet and toss them in the sauce, ensuring they’re well-coated. Then, add the cooked pasta to the skillet as well. Mix everything together so that the pasta is enveloped in that creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, feel free to add a little more of the reserved pasta water.

6. Final Touches:

Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy warm!

FAQ for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?

Absolutely! While fettuccine and linguine are great choices, feel free to substitute with any pasta you prefer. Penne, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta work well and will still hold that delicious creamy sauce.

What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter option or a dairy-free alternative, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and cornstarch. For a dairy-free choice, try coconut cream or a cashew cream mixture to get a similar creamy texture.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and ensure it warms up evenly without drying out.

Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?

You can prep the chicken and make the sauce ahead of time. Simply store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce, add the chicken, and toss with freshly cooked pasta for a delicious meal without the last-minute rush!