Get ready to indulge in a dish that’s both simple and scrumptious—Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Parmesan Pasta! This recipe combines tender chicken pieces in a rich garlic butter sauce with creamy Parmesan pasta. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner, you’ll love how quickly it comes together. Join me as we explore easy steps and tips to make this delightful meal shine on your table!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Sauce: The garlic butter sauce combined with creamy Parmesan elevates the dish to comfort food perfection.
- Customizable: You can easily swap the chicken for shrimp or veggies to suit your dietary preferences.
- Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy.
Ingredients
Protein Source
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
Chicken breast is the star of this dish. It cooks quickly and stays juicy. Cut it into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and easy eating.
Condiments and Seasonings
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Butter adds richness to the dish. Minced garlic brings flavor, while Italian seasoning adds a warm taste. Use salt and pepper to enhance the overall flavor.
Sauce Components
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Heavy cream makes the sauce rich and creamy. Grated Parmesan adds a salty, cheesy flavor that ties the dish together.
Pasta Choice
- 8 oz (225g) pasta of your choice (spaghetti, fettuccine, etc.)
You can use any pasta you like. Spaghetti is classic, while fettuccine offers a nice bite. Choose what you enjoy most.
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Chopped fresh parsley adds color and freshness. It also brightens the dish and makes it look appealing.
This combination of ingredients creates a delightful meal that is both comforting and satisfying.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
To start, fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add salt to the water. This helps flavor the pasta. Once boiling, add 8 ounces of pasta. Stir and cook according to the package directions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. When done, save 1/2 cup of pasta water. Drain the rest and set the pasta aside.
Sautéing the Chicken
Now, grab a large skillet. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add 1 pound of bite-sized chicken pieces. Season them with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes. Look for a nice golden brown color. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Preparing the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Melt it over medium heat. Next, add 4 minced garlic cloves. Sauté them for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. After that, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Let it simmer gently. Lower the heat and whisk in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Keep whisking until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy. If it’s too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach the right consistency.
Combining Pasta and Chicken
Take the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet. Stir well to coat it in the sauce. Then, add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the garlic butter sauce. Make sure it’s heated through and tastes just right.
Serving Suggestions
Now it’s time to serve! Plate the pasta in a large bowl. Nestle the chicken bites on top. For a pretty touch, garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan. This dish looks wonderful and tastes even better! You might also want to serve it with garlic bread for a delightful side.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Chicken Bites
To make tender chicken bites, start with fresh chicken breast. Cut it into even pieces. This helps them cook at the same rate. Season well with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté in butter until golden brown. Don't overcrowd the pan. This way, they brown nicely. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken once it's fully cooked. Letting it rest keeps it juicy.
Achieving the Creamy Sauce
For the creamy sauce, start by sautéing garlic in butter. Watch it closely so it doesn’t burn. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese. This helps it melt smoothly. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water. This will help you reach the perfect consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. A little salt can enhance the flavor.
Best Pasta Options
When it comes to pasta, choose what you love. Spaghetti and fettuccine are great choices. They hold the sauce well and add to the dish's texture. Penne or farfalle also work, offering a fun shape. Cook pasta until al dente for the best bite. Remember to reserve some pasta water before draining. This water is great for adjusting sauce thickness later. Enjoy the dish with a side of garlic bread for extra flavor!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic offers a much more vibrant flavor compared to pre-minced versions. The difference is noticeable and will enhance your sauce significantly.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: To ensure your chicken remains tender and juicy, avoid overcooking. Cook until golden brown and just cooked through to retain moisture.
- Adjusting Sauce Consistency: If your sauce becomes too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you achieve the desired creaminess. This step helps prevent waste and enhances flavor.
- Garnish Generously: A generous sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also a fresh flavor that brightens the dish. Don’t skip this step for visual and taste appeal!
Variations
Protein Alternatives
You can switch from chicken to shrimp, beef, or even a veggie option. Shrimp cooks quickly and adds a nice seafood flavor. Just sauté it in the butter until pink and tender. Beef can bring a hearty taste. Use thin strips and cook them until browned. For a vegetarian choice, try tofu or chickpeas. Both soak up flavor well and provide protein.
Flavor Enhancements
Adding veggies or herbs can brighten the dish. Try mixing in spinach, peas, or bell peppers for color and nutrition. Sauté them with the garlic for extra flavor. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can bring freshness. You can add them right before serving for a burst of taste.
Dietary Modifications
If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta. Many types are available now, so you won't lose taste or texture. For a low-carb choice, try spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice. These swaps keep the dish light while still satisfying.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Tips
To store leftovers, let the dish cool first. Use an airtight container. Place the chicken bites and pasta together. This keeps them fresh for up to three days. Make sure to label the container with the date.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze, portion the meal into freezer-safe bags. Remove as much air as you can. Freeze for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of cream if it looks dry.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Parmesan Pasta lasts about three days. In the freezer, it can stay good for three months. Always check for any off smells or changes before eating.
FAQs
How do I make garlic butter chicken bites?
To make garlic butter chicken bites, start by cutting chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Melt two tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden brown, about five to seven minutes. Set the chicken aside. In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter, then add minced garlic and sauté for one minute. Pour in heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Gradually whisk in grated Parmesan cheese to create a creamy sauce. Combine the chicken and pasta, stirring until well coated.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you like! Spaghetti and fettuccine work well, but feel free to try penne, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to cook it until al dente according to the package instructions. The key is to have pasta that holds the sauce nicely.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with whole milk or half-and-half. For a dairy-free choice, use coconut cream or cashew cream. Just note that the sauce may be less rich with these alternatives, so adjust seasonings as needed.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep some components ahead of time. Cook the pasta and chicken, then store them separately in the fridge. When you're ready to serve, simply heat the chicken in the sauce and toss with pasta for a quick meal. However, I recommend making the sauce fresh for the best taste.
How do I reheat Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Parmesan Pasta?
To reheat, place the leftovers in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking and help rehydrate the sauce. Stir gently until heated through. You can also microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, but be careful not to overcook.
This blog shared everything you need to make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Parmesan Pasta. I covered the key ingredients like chicken, butter, cream, and pasta choices. You learned step-by-step instructions for cooking and combining everything into a delicious meal. I also shared tips for perfecting flavors and storage methods.
In conclusion, this dish is easy to make and packed with flavor. Enjoy experimenting with different proteins and pasta types. Don’t forget the fresh parsley for a perfect touch! Happy cooking!
