ADVERTISEMENT
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your pasta according to package directions. Be sure to salt the water generously for flavor. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and set it aside, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken Bites
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and season them with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant (be careful not to burn it). Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, tossing it in the garlic butter. Set the chicken aside once again.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Stir in the chicken broth, grated Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder (if using). Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and the cheese is fully melted.
If the sauce gets too thick, you can add some of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 4: Combine Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce
Once the sauce has thickened, add the cooked pasta and chicken bites to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce. If necessary, add a little more chicken broth or pasta water to keep the sauce smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Serve the garlic butter chicken and creamy Parmesan pasta immediately, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and flavor. You can also sprinkle some additional grated Parmesan cheese over the top for extra cheesiness.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and flavorful dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and additions:
- Garlic Bread: Serve with some crispy, buttery garlic bread to scoop up the creamy sauce.
- Steamed Vegetables: Add a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or green beans for a pop of color and nutrition.
- Side Salad: A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help balance out the richness of the dish.
- Wine Pairing: If you’re enjoying this meal with wine, a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio will complement the creamy Parmesan sauce perfectly.
Tips for Success
- Customize the Chicken: You can swap out the chicken for shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a different take on this dish.
- Spice it Up: For a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the top or toss the chicken in a bit of cayenne pepper before cooking.
- Extra Creamy: If you love creamy dishes, you can add more cream or even a splash of whole milk to make the sauce extra luscious.
- Leftovers: This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of cream or chicken broth to loosen the sauce.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the kind of meal that hits all the right notes—rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something comforting but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. With tender chicken bites, a rich garlic butter sauce, and a creamy Parmesan pasta that will make your taste buds dance, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. So grab your ingredients, cook up this amazing dish, and get ready to enjoy a plate of pure comfort!
ADVERTISEMENT
