This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe is a delicious, comforting meal that’s ready in about 30 minutes. Tender chicken pieces are cooked in a garlicky butter sauce and paired with a rich, cheesy pasta. It’s an easy dish that feels indulgent but uses simple ingredients you likely have on hand.
The combination of juicy chicken and creamy pasta makes it a hit for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. It’s flavorful, satisfying, and doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into why this recipe is so popular and how you can make it at home.
Why People Love This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
There’s something irresistible about the smell of garlic and butter sizzling together. It coats the chicken in a savory, golden flavor that’s hard to beat. People love how it turns basic chicken into something special with minimal effort.
The creamy Parmesan pasta is a perfect match—smooth, cheesy, and just rich enough. It balances the bold garlic taste without feeling heavy. That harmony keeps folks coming back for more.
It’s also quick and straightforward, which busy cooks appreciate. You get a restaurant-quality meal without the fuss. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser for all ages, making it a family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses pantry staples and fresh basics to create its magic. Nothing fancy is required—just good, everyday items. Here’s what you’ll need.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ¼ cup pasta water (reserved)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Fresh garlic and real Parmesan make a big difference here. You can swap the cream for half-and-half if you want it lighter.
Kitchen Tools for the Job
You won’t need anything complicated to whip this up. Standard kitchen gear does the trick. Here’s the list.
- Large skillet
- Medium pot
- Colander
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
A tongs or slotted spoon can help with the chicken, but it’s not a must. Keep it simple and practical.
How to Prepare Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
This dish comes together in about 30 minutes, with everything cooking in two pans. The steps are easy, and the result is pure comfort. Let’s get started.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions—about 8-10 minutes. Drain, reserving ¼ cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally. It should be golden and cooked through—check that it hits 165°F inside.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Butter
Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir constantly so the garlic doesn’t burn.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and reserved pasta water. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts into a smooth sauce—about 2-3 minutes. Keep the heat medium-low to avoid curdling.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Chicken
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together, then mix in the chicken bites. Let it heat through for 1-2 minutes.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley if using. Serve it hot, straight from the skillet. The aroma will have everyone ready to eat.
Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
A few simple tricks can elevate this dish even more. Here’s what works well.
- Use fresh garlic—it’s worth it for that bold flavor.
- Don’t overcook the chicken—keep it juicy by checking it early.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- Grate your own Parmesan for a smoother, meltier sauce.
These tweaks let you tweak it to your taste. It’s a forgiving recipe, so have fun with it.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is hearty enough on its own but pairs nicely with light sides. Here’s how to enjoy it.
- Serve with a crisp green salad and a lemony dressing.
- Offer garlic bread or a warm roll to soak up the sauce.
- Add steamed broccoli or asparagus for a veggie boost.
- Keep it simple with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top.
It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a casual get-together. The flavors shine no matter how you serve it.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the breakdown for one serving, based on 4 servings total. It’s a rich dish, so it’s best as a treat.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 620 |
| Total Fat | 38g |
| Saturated Fat | 20g |
| Cholesterol | 160mg |
| Sodium | 680mg |
| Carbohydrates | 38g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 2g |
| Protein | 34g |
This is an estimate and can vary with your ingredients. It’s filling and flavorful, so a little goes a long way.
Storing and Reheating
Leftovers are a treat with this recipe. Here’s how to keep them tasty.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or water—about 5 minutes. Microwaving works too, for 1-2 minutes, but stir halfway.
Freezing isn’t ideal—the sauce can separate—but it’s doable for up to a month. Thaw overnight before reheating gently.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe is a standout for its balance of ease and indulgence. The garlic butter gives the chicken a rich, savory edge, while the creamy pasta ties it all together. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but feels special enough for guests.
The one-skillet approach keeps cleanup simple, which is a huge plus. It’s a dish that delivers big on flavor without needing hours or fancy ingredients. That’s why it’s a keeper in so many homes.
Summary
This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe is a fast, flavorful meal that’s ready in 30 minutes. Juicy chicken cooked in garlic butter pairs perfectly with a rich, cheesy pasta sauce. It’s an easy, comforting dish that’s sure to satisfy.
It’s a no-stress way to bring bold flavors to your table. Make it once, and it’ll likely become a regular in your dinner lineup.
FAQ
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, any short pasta like rotini or bowties works just as well.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
Half-and-half or whole milk with a bit of extra cheese can substitute.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Cook the chicken and pasta separately, then combine and reheat with sauce when ready.
How do I keep the sauce from separating?
Keep the heat low when adding cream and stir constantly.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely, thighs add extra juiciness—just adjust cooking time slightly.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Medium pot
- Colander
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces pasta penne, fettuccine, or your favorite
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ¼ cup pasta water reserved
- Fresh parsley chopped (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions—about 8-10 minutes. Drain, reserving ¼ cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
- While the pasta cooks, pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally. It should be golden and cooked through—check that it hits 165°F inside.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Butter
- Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir constantly so the garlic doesn’t burn.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce
- In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and reserved pasta water. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts into a smooth sauce—about 2-3 minutes. Keep the heat medium-low to avoid curdling.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Chicken
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together, then mix in the chicken bites. Let it heat through for 1-2 minutes.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley if using. Serve it hot, straight from the skillet. The aroma will have everyone ready to eat.
