These Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are juicy and packed with flavor, cooked to crispy perfection. Paired with creamy Parmesan pasta, this dish is a winner!
Honestly, who can resist garlic butter? I love how quick this meal comes together, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: You can use boneless chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian twist!
Butter: Unsalted butter is best here to control the saltiness. If you want to lower the fat content, try using olive oil instead. Coconut oil is a good dairy-free alternative too.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work as a substitute. Use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder per clove of fresh garlic.
Pasta: While fettuccine is fantastic, any pasta works! You could use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option or even gluten-free pasta if that’s your preference.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is ideal for a rich flavor. In a pinch, you could use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Is Juicy and Flavorful?
Cooking the chicken just right takes some attention, but it’s worth it! Start by seasoning well before cooking. Here’s how to cook it perfectly:
- Make sure the skillet and oil are hot before adding the chicken to get a good sear.
- Cook the chicken in batches if needed, to avoid overcrowding in the pan.
- Once browned, let the chicken rest on the plate a moment before adding it back to the garlic butter sauce to maintain moisture.
What’s the Trick to Getting Creamy Pasta Sauce?
Getting the perfect creamy sauce is all about timing and temperature. Follow these steps for a smooth sauce:
- Keep the heat medium to avoid boiling the cream. Heat gently to thicken.
- Incorporate the Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring constantly for even melting.
- If sauce is thick, add the reserved pasta water a bit at a time. This helps create a silky texture!
Following these tips will help you nail this dish every time. Enjoy your cooking!
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For The Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
- Optional: 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes for mild heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll need around 10 minutes to cook the pasta and about 15-20 minutes for the chicken and sauce. It’s quick and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package directions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Once it’s done cooking, reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water for later, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken Bites:
While the pasta cooks, take your chicken pieces and season them with paprika, salt, and black pepper for a tasty kick!
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the seasoned chicken bites. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re golden brown and cooked all the way through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the 3 tablespoons of butter. Let it melt, then add the minced garlic and cook it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss it to coat in the delicious garlic butter sauce. Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors.
5. Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
In a separate saucepan or skillet, melt the 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it until it’s fragrant, around 1 minute. Then pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
6. Add Parmesan Cheese:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese slowly, mixing until it’s melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce gets too thick, don’t worry! Just add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Finally, season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
7. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the creamy sauce. Toss it gently to make sure all the pasta is well coated with that luscious cheese sauce.
8. Serve:
Now it’s time to plate! Serve your creamy Parmesan pasta on a dish and then top it with the garlic butter chicken bites. Finish it off with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley and some extra Parmesan if you want to indulge!
9. Enjoy!
Dig in and savor your rich and flavorful Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta! Perfect for a cozy dinner at home.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! However, make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge or use the quick method by placing it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Pat it dry before seasoning and cooking to ensure a good sear.
How Can I Make This Dish Healthier?
You can make a few easy adjustments to lighten things up! Use skinless chicken breasts, substitute the heavy cream with a lower-fat option like half-and-half or Greek yogurt, and opt for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. Adding more veggies, like spinach or broccoli, is also a great way to boost nutrition!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If the sauce has thickened, add a splash of water or milk to loosen it up while reheating.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the creamy Parmesan sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat gently on the stove before mixing it with the cooked pasta and chicken. It may need a bit of extra liquid to regain its creamy consistency.
