There’s something incredibly comforting about a plate of garlic butter chicken bites served with creamy parmesan pasta. It’s one of those meals that wraps you in warmth, like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. I just love how this dish brings together tender chicken, rich garlic butter, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that dances with flavor. And the best part? It’s so easy to make! You don’t need to be a culinary expert to whip this up; in fact, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a simple yet satisfying dinner.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing a meal with loved ones, this dish is sure to impress without causing stress in the kitchen. In just about 35 minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table that feels indulgent but is made with straightforward ingredients. It’s a go-to recipe that’s become a favorite in my home, and I can’t wait for you to try it! Trust me, once you taste those garlic butter chicken bites alongside creamy parmesan pasta, you’ll be coming back for seconds – and maybe even thirds!
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need to create those delicious garlic butter chicken bites with creamy parmesan pasta. I’ve made sure to list the ingredients clearly, so you’ll know exactly what to grab when you head to the kitchen.
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (feel free to adjust if you prefer less garlic!)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 8 ounces pasta of your choice (I love using fettuccine, but any pasta works just fine!)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
These ingredients come together to create a wonderful, comforting dish that’s full of flavor. And don’t worry if you have dietary preferences; I’ll share some great substitutions later on! Happy cooking!
How to Prepare Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful dish! I promise, the process is straightforward and rewarding. Here’s how to bring those garlic butter chicken bites and creamy parmesan pasta to life!
Cooking the Pasta
First up, we need to cook the pasta. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. It’s important to add enough salt; it should taste like the sea! Once it’s bubbling away, add your 8 ounces of pasta. Follow the package instructions for cooking time, usually around 8 to 10 minutes, but I recommend checking a minute or two before the time is up. You want the pasta to be al dente, which means it should still have a little bite to it. When it’s done, drain the pasta in a colander but don’t rinse it – we want to keep that lovely starch on the surface to help the sauce stick later!
Preparing the Garlic Butter Chicken
In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. As it melts, you’ll notice that wonderful buttery aroma filling your kitchen – it’s heavenly! Once the butter is melted, add in the 4 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, just until it’s fragrant but not browned; we want it to be fragrant, not burnt! Next, toss in your diced chicken breast. Season it generously with salt and pepper to taste. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s no longer pink in the center. To check for doneness, cut a piece in half; it should be white all the way through. This is key to ensuring it’s safe to eat!
Making the Creamy Sauce
Once your chicken is cooked, it’s time to create that luscious creamy sauce. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring gently to combine. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes. Now, add in 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts into the cream, creating a smooth and creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up a bit. Trust me, this sauce is where the magic happens!
Combining Ingredients
Finally, it’s time to bring everything together. Add your drained pasta to the skillet with the creamy chicken sauce. Gently toss the pasta in the sauce using tongs or a large spoon, making sure every strand is coated in that delicious mixture. If you find it’s a bit too thick, don’t hesitate to add a little more heavy cream or some reserved pasta water. Once it’s all beautifully mixed, serve it up hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy every bite of this comforting meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This garlic butter chicken bites with creamy parmesan pasta recipe is one you’ll cherish for many reasons. Here are just a few benefits that make this dish a favorite in my home:
- Quick Preparation Time: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up a delicious meal even on the busiest of days!
- Comfort Food Qualities: This dish is the epitome of comfort food, enveloping you in rich flavors and creamy textures that warm the heart.
- Versatility in Protein Choices: Not a fan of chicken? No problem! You can easily substitute with shrimp, tofu, or even a hearty veggie mix to suit your dietary needs.
- Overall Deliciousness: The combination of garlic butter, tender chicken, and creamy parmesan sauce creates a symphony of flavors that are hard to resist.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this meal, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends!
Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why it has a special place in my heart and kitchen!
Tips for Success
To make your garlic butter chicken bites with creamy parmesan pasta absolutely perfect, here are some handy tips that I’ve learned along the way!
- Adjusting the Garlic: If you’re not sure about the garlic level, start with just 2 cloves instead of 4. You can always add more later if you want that extra zing! Garlic can be quite potent, and it’s best to find your balance.
- Alternative Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings! A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a lovely kick, or try some toasted pine nuts for a crunchy texture. Fresh basil or thyme can also elevate the dish beautifully.
- Cooking the Chicken Thoroughly: Make sure to cut the chicken into even pieces to ensure they cook uniformly. If you’re unsure if it’s done, use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F in the center!
- Saving Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will deepen overnight, making it a delicious next-day lunch option!
- Make it Your Own: Don’t hesitate to mix in your favorite vegetables, like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes, into the creamy sauce for added nutrition and flavor!
With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to serving up a fantastic meal that everyone will love!
Ingredient Notes/Substitutions
When it comes to making garlic butter chicken bites with creamy parmesan pasta, it’s great to know you can easily customize the recipe to fit your needs. Here are some ingredient notes and substitutions that can help you make this dish your own!
- Chicken: While this recipe calls for chicken breast, feel free to swap it out for chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor. If you’re looking for a seafood twist, shrimp works wonderfully too! And for a vegetarian option, try using cubed tofu or a mix of hearty vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms.
- Pasta: I love fettuccine, but you can definitely use any pasta you have on hand. If you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free pasta made from rice, quinoa, or lentils. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for cooking times, as they can vary.
- Heavy Cream: If you want a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream. Just keep in mind that this may result in a less creamy sauce. For a dairy-free option, try using coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan cheese adds the best flavor, but if you don’t have it, pre-grated cheese will work in a pinch. For a non-dairy alternative, look for vegan parmesan cheese that melts well.
- Garlic: If you’re sensitive to garlic but still want some flavor, try using garlic powder instead, starting with about 1 teaspoon. You can also adjust the amount of garlic to suit your taste – add less if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Herbs: Fresh parsley is a lovely garnish, but feel free to experiment with other herbs such as basil, thyme, or chives for a different flavor profile. Fresh herbs can brighten up the dish and add a lovely aroma!
These substitutions make it easy to adapt the recipe to your taste preferences or dietary restrictions. Cooking should be enjoyable and flexible, so don’t hesitate to get creative in the kitchen!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
It’s important to note that the nutritional values for this garlic butter chicken bites with creamy parmesan pasta recipe can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. While I strive to provide accurate information, precise nutritional data is not provided due to these variations. If you have specific dietary needs or restrictions, I recommend calculating the nutritional information based on the exact ingredients you choose to use. Enjoy this comforting dish while keeping in mind your individual dietary preferences!
FAQ Section
Q1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Cooking from frozen may result in uneven cooking, so it’s best to plan ahead and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Q2. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make garlic butter chicken bites with creamy parmesan pasta gluten-free, simply swap the regular pasta for gluten-free pasta made from rice or quinoa. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package for the best results!
Q3. Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can cook the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat the sauce and combine it with freshly cooked pasta for a quick meal.
Q4. What can I serve with garlic butter chicken bites?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. Crusty bread is also great for soaking up the delicious creamy sauce. Feel free to get creative with your side dishes!
Q5. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if needed. Enjoy your delicious meal again!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving garlic butter chicken bites with creamy parmesan pasta, there are plenty of delightful options to complement this comforting dish! A fresh, crisp salad is always a great choice; I love a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to add a nice zing. It balances the richness of the pasta beautifully!
Another wonderful side is some warm, crusty bread. A nice baguette or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce – trust me, you won’t want to leave any behind! If you prefer something veggie-packed, roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus are fantastic choices. They add color and nutrients, making your meal feel even more wholesome.
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to create a well-rounded meal that everyone will enjoy. Happy dining!
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Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Bliss
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Garlic butter chicken bites served with creamy parmesan pasta.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 8 ounces pasta of choice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add diced chicken to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until chicken is no longer pink.
- Pour in heavy cream and stir well.
- Add parmesan cheese and mix until smooth.
- Combine cooked pasta with the sauce and toss to coat.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for different protein options.
- Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free dish.
- Fresh herbs can enhance flavor; consider basil or thyme.
- Adjust garlic to taste if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: garlic butter chicken bites, creamy parmesan pasta, easy chicken recipes
