Garlic Butter Chicken Bites With Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe

There's nothing quite like the irresistible combination of juicy garlic butter chicken bites and a rich, creamy Parmesan pasta. This dish is packed with bold flavors, tender chicken, and a luscious, cheesy sauce that clings to every bite of pasta.

I first made this recipe on a whim, trying to whip up something quick yet indulgent for dinner. To my surprise, it became an instant family favorite! Now, it's our go-to comfort meal—easy enough for weeknights but decadent enough for special occasions.

Why You'll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Get ready to add this dish to your regular meal rotation. Here’s why it’s bound to become a household favorite:

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. From start to finish, you can have this meal on the table in about 30 minutes—perfect for those busy evenings when time is tight but cravings are strong.

Second, it’s loaded with flavor. The garlic butter-infused chicken bites are golden, juicy, and packed with a savory kick. Combine that with a creamy, cheesy pasta, and every forkful is a dream.

Another reason to love this recipe? It’s budget-friendly and made with pantry staples. You don’t need any fancy ingredients—just chicken, pasta, butter, garlic, Parmesan, and cream—most of which you probably already have on hand.

Lastly, it’s a one-pan wonder (well, almost). You’ll only need one skillet for the chicken and sauce, plus a pot for the pasta, keeping cleanup minimal.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken Bites:

• Chicken breast or thighs – I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their extra juiciness, but chicken breast works just as well if you prefer a leaner option.
• Garlic – Freshly minced garlic is key for that rich, aromatic flavor. Avoid using garlic powder—it won’t have the same punch.
• Butter – The base of our delicious garlic butter sauce. Use unsalted butter so you can control the seasoning.
• Italian seasoning – This blend of basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme adds depth to the chicken.
• Salt & black pepper – Simple but essential.

For the Parmesan Pasta:

• Pasta – I recommend penne, fettuccine, or rotini for their ability to hold onto the creamy sauce.
• Heavy cream – Creates the rich, velvety texture of the sauce. For a lighter option, use half-and-half.
• Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully into the sauce, giving it a nutty, savory flavor.
• Chicken broth – Adds depth and prevents the sauce from becoming too heavy.
• Red pepper flakes (optional) – If you love a little heat, add a pinch for extra flavor.

Special Equipment:

• A large skillet for searing the chicken and making the sauce.
• A pot for boiling pasta.
• A microplane or grater for fresh Parmesan.

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Making this dish is simple and satisfying. Follow these easy steps:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining—this will help thin the sauce later if needed.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken bites, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook for 5-6 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown.

Once cooked, remove the chicken and set aside. Don't clean the skillet—you’ll want all those browned bits for extra flavor in the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, melt another tablespoon of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Parmesan & Pasta

Lower the heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese, whisking until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Return the garlic butter chicken bites to the skillet, stirring to combine. Let everything warm through for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat.

Garnish with extra Parmesan, chopped parsley, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.

Storage Options

Have leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat them for the best results:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: The pasta sauce may thicken when frozen, but you can still freeze this dish in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Tips:

For the best texture, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. If microwaving, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, to prevent drying out.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to customize it to your taste!

• Protein Swap: Try this with shrimp, salmon, or even tofu for a different twist.
• Low-Carb Option: Skip the pasta and serve the chicken bites over zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or spaghetti squash.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.
• Extra Veggies: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for more color and nutrients.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta—chickpea or lentil pasta works great!

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dish that’s both quick and indulgent, this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is exactly what you need. With its garlicky, buttery chicken and ultra-creamy Parmesan sauce, it’s comfort food at its finest.

Give it a try and let me know how you liked it! And if you put your own spin on it, I’d love to hear about your variations in the comments below.

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