If you’re craving a meal that’s rich, comforting, and packed with flavor, this garlic butter chicken bites with creamy parmesan pasta recipe is about to become your new go-to. Tender, juicy chicken pieces coated in a garlicky, buttery goodness pair perfectly with a luscious, cheesy pasta that’s smooth as silk. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent but comes together without much fuss—ideal for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat.
This recipe blends simple ingredients into something irresistible. The chicken gets a quick sear for that golden edge, while the pasta soaks up a creamy sauce made with parmesan and a touch of garlic. Together, they create a harmony of textures and tastes that’s hard to beat. Let’s dive into how to make it step-by-step.
Why People Love Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
There’s something about this dish that hooks people from the first bite. The garlic butter chicken bites are tender and bursting with savory, melt-in-your-mouth flavor, thanks to that golden sear and rich buttery coating. Pair that with the creamy parmesan pasta, and you’ve got a combo that’s both comforting and decadent—think cozy nights in with a plate of pure satisfaction.
It’s not just the taste, though. This recipe wins hearts because it’s quick and approachable, turning everyday ingredients into a meal that feels gourmet. Families love it for its kid-friendly appeal, while foodies appreciate how easy it is to tweak with spices or veggies. It’s versatile, reliable, and leaves everyone scraping their plates clean.
Ingredients You’ll Need
First, gather everything you’ll need for both the chicken and the pasta. Keeping it simple means you won’t be running around for fancy extras—just pantry staples and a few fresh items.
For the garlic butter chicken bites:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch chunks)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the creamy parmesan pasta:
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite shape)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water (optional, for thinning the sauce)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Everything here is straightforward, and you can tweak the seasoning to your liking once you’ve got the basics down.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
The chicken is the star of this dish, and it cooks up fast. You’ll have juicy, flavorful bites in no time.
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and cut it into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes. Season them with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, tossing to coat evenly.
Step 2: Heat the Pan
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Let it shimmer—hot enough to sizzle when the chicken hits it.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Add the chicken pieces in a single layer, working in batches if needed. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp should hit 165°F).
Step 4: Add Butter and Garlic
Lower the heat to medium, add the butter, and let it melt. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, coating the chicken in that garlicky goodness.
Step 5: Set Aside
Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm while you tackle the pasta.
The garlic butter clinging to the chicken is what makes every bite so addictive—it’s simple but bold.
How to Make Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Now, let’s get that pasta going. It’s creamy, cheesy, and ties the whole dish together.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, then drain, reserving 1/4 cup of the water.
Step 2: Start the Sauce
In the same skillet (wipe it out if there’s too much grease), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until it smells amazing.
Step 3: Build the Creaminess
Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally for 2-3 minutes as it thickens slightly.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Stir in the parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Keep stirring until the cheese melts into a smooth, velvety sauce—about 2 minutes.
Step 5: Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. If the sauce feels too thick, splash in a bit of reserved pasta water until it’s just right.
This sauce clings to the pasta beautifully, making every forkful a delight.
Bringing It All Together
With the chicken and pasta ready, it’s time to plate up. Spoon a generous portion of creamy parmesan pasta onto each plate, then top it with a handful of garlic butter chicken bites. Sprinkle some fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. The contrast of the golden chicken against the creamy pasta is as pretty as it is tasty.
You can serve it family-style in a big bowl if you’re feeding a crowd, or keep it neat on individual plates for a dinner-party vibe. Either way, it’s a dish that looks like you worked harder than you did.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick breakdown of what you’re getting per serving (based on 4 servings total). It’s hearty, so it fills you up without feeling too heavy.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 850 kcal |
| Protein | 48g |
| Fat | 52g |
| Saturated Fat | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Sodium | 980mg |
Numbers can vary depending on exact portions or tweaks, but this gives you a solid idea of the meal’s profile.
Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Chicken Bites and Pasta
To make this dish even better—or switch it up next time—here are some handy pointers:
- Use Fresh Garlic: Pre-minced garlic works in a pinch, but fresh cloves give a punchier flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Pull it off the heat as soon as it hits 165°F to keep it juicy.
- Swap the Pasta: Try spaghetti, rigatoni, or even a gluten-free option if that’s your thing.
- Add Veggies: Toss in steamed broccoli or spinach with the pasta for extra color and nutrition.
- Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes in the chicken or sauce adds a nice kick.
These little tweaks can keep the recipe fresh every time you make it.
Serving Ideas
This dish is versatile and pairs well with a few simple sides. Here’s how to round it out:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up any extra sauce—because why not double down on garlic?
- Green Salad: A crisp mix of lettuce, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness.
- Roasted Veggies: Asparagus or zucchini roasted with olive oil keeps it easy and flavorful.
- Glass of White Wine: A chilled Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy, garlicky vibes.
It’s flexible enough to fit whatever you’ve got on hand or whatever mood you’re in.
Summary
This garlic butter chicken bites with creamy parmesan pasta recipe is all about big flavor with minimal effort.
The chicken comes out tender and golden, drenched in a buttery garlic coating, while the pasta wraps itself in a smooth, cheesy sauce that’s pure comfort. It’s a meal that feels special but doesn’t demand hours in the kitchen—perfect for busy nights or when you just want something delicious.
You’ll love how the ingredients come together with ease, and the little tips and serving ideas let you make it your own. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with others, it’s a winner every time.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless thighs work great—just adjust the cooking time slightly as they might take a minute or two longer.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can cook the chicken and pasta separately ahead, but the sauce is best made fresh—it thickens up too much if it sits.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
Half-and-half or a mix of milk and butter can work, though the sauce won’t be as rich.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely—the flavors are bold but not spicy, and the bite-sized chicken is easy for little hands to manage.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Large pot
- Cutting Board and Knife
- Tongs or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Colander
- Plate
Ingredients
For the garlic butter chicken bites:
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch chunks)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the creamy parmesan pasta:
- 12 oz pasta penne, fettuccine, or your favorite shape
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water optional, for thinning the sauce
- Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and cut it into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes. Season them with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, tossing to coat evenly.
Step 2: Heat the Pan
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Let it shimmer—hot enough to sizzle when the chicken hits it.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
- Add the chicken pieces in a single layer, working in batches if needed. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp should hit 165°F).
Step 4: Add Butter and Garlic
- Lower the heat to medium, add the butter, and let it melt. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, coating the chicken in that garlicky goodness.
Step 5: Set Aside
- Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm while you tackle the pasta.
- The garlic butter clinging to the chicken is what makes every bite so addictive—it’s simple but bold.
