Description
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a quick and comforting dinner featuring tender chicken, rich garlic butter, and a smooth Parmesan cream sauce tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. This family-friendly meal comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients
Chicken & Garlic Butter
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Pasta & Sauce
- 8 ounces fettuccine or linguine
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Reserved pasta water (as needed)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prep Ingredients: Mince the garlic and cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Grate the parmesan cheese and chop fresh parsley if using for garnish.
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Lower the heat to medium. Stir in the heavy cream and remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the grated parmesan cheese and cook, stirring, until the cheese is melted and a creamy sauce forms.
- Combine Pasta & Serve: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Toss well to coat. Add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce to your preferred consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Cutting the chicken in even pieces ensures even cooking.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for best texture and flavor in the sauce.
- Don’t overcook the garlic; sauté just until fragrant to avoid bitterness.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or peas for extra texture and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main-course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American/Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 41g
- Cholesterol: 155mg
