ADVERTISEMENT
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken Bites
Start by preparing the chicken. Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes. If you prefer, you can also use chicken thighs for a slightly juicier, more flavorful option.
In a large bowl, season the chicken cubes with a pinch of salt, pepper, and dried thyme and rosemary. Toss the chicken to coat it evenly in the seasonings.
2. Cook the Chicken Bites
Heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken cubes to the pan in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure the chicken sears properly.
Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic is fragrant and slightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Once the garlic is cooked, add the chicken back to the skillet and toss it in the garlic butter sauce. Stir to coat the chicken in the flavorful sauce, allowing the garlic to infuse the chicken with its aroma. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
4. Cook the Pasta
While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your fettuccine or other pasta of choice, and cook it according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
5. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
While the pasta is cooking, start on the creamy Parmesan sauce. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Next, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring frequently, and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
6. Combine the Chicken and Pasta
Now it’s time to combine everything! Add the drained pasta to the creamy Parmesan sauce, tossing to coat the noodles evenly in the rich sauce. Then, add the cooked garlic butter chicken bites to the pasta, stirring to incorporate the chicken into the creamy pasta.
Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning if desired. The sauce should be creamy and flavorful, with just the right balance of garlic, butter, and Parmesan.
7. Serve and Garnish
Once everything is combined, plate the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a touch of freshness.
Serve the dish immediately while it’s still warm, and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this indulgent meal.
Tips and Tricks for Perfecting Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
While this dish is straightforward to make, there are a few tips and tricks that can help you take it to the next level:
1. Use Fresh Garlic for Maximum Flavor
Garlic is the key ingredient in this dish, so using fresh garlic will provide the best flavor. Pre-minced garlic or garlic powder can’t compare to the vibrant, aromatic taste of freshly minced garlic.
2. Adjust the Cream Sauce to Your Liking
The cream sauce can be made to suit your taste. If you like a richer, more decadent sauce, you can use full-fat heavy cream. For a slightly lighter version, you can substitute part of the cream with half-and-half or even milk. The key is to balance the creaminess with the sharpness of the Parmesan cheese.
3. Experiment with Herbs
While thyme and rosemary are the classic herbs for the garlic butter chicken, you can experiment with other herbs based on your preferences. Basil, oregano, or sage can add interesting flavors to the garlic butter sauce.
4. Add Vegetables for Extra Flavor
To make the dish even more hearty, consider adding some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to the pasta. Vegetables can add both flavor and texture, making the dish more well-rounded.
5. Make it Spicy
If you love a little heat, add some red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a spicy kick. The heat will complement the creamy Parmesan sauce beautifully.
6. Leftovers and Storage
This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to bring back the sauce’s creamy consistency.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the perfect comfort food dish that combines savory, indulgent flavors with rich textures. The tender, juicy garlic butter chicken paired with the creamy, cheesy pasta creates a meal that’s both satisfying and luxurious. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is ideal for both novice and experienced cooks.
Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or preparing a weeknight dinner, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite in your culinary repertoire. It’s a meal that’s guaranteed to impress—and even more importantly, delight—with every bite. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy this scrumptious, hearty dish!
ADVERTISEMENT
