Name: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 3 tablespoons butter, divided; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional); 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish); 8 ounces pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is perfect for anyone who loves rich, garlicky, and cheesy meals. It’s a one-pan recipe that minimizes cleanup while delivering maximum flavor. The creamy Parmesan pasta and tender garlic butter chicken come together in just 35 minutes, making it both convenient and indulgent. Plus, it’s highly customizable, whether you want to add vegetables or swap ingredients for dietary needs.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
3 tablespoons butter, divided
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

8 ounces pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

Directions

Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken with paprika, salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if using). Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken in garlic butter. Remove chicken and set aside.
Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce until evenly coated.
Assemble the Dish: Plate the pasta and top with garlic butter chicken bites. Garnish with parsley, if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Substitute shrimp for chicken for a seafood twist.
Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra vegetables.
Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
Mix in sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for added flavor.
Swap heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to refresh the sauce. Avoid microwaving to maintain the creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead. Store them separately in the fridge and combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

What type of pasta works best?

Fettuccine, penne, or linguine are great options, but you can use any pasta you prefer.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

It’s not recommended to freeze this dish as the creamy sauce may separate when thawed.

How can I lighten this recipe?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and opt for grilled chicken instead of sautéing in butter.

What can I pair this with?

A side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad complements this dish perfectly.

Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add spinach, mushrooms, or even roasted red peppers for extra flavor and nutrients.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh chicken for even cooking. If using frozen, make sure it’s thoroughly thawed before cooking.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Can I use pre-cooked pasta?

It’s recommended to cook fresh pasta for the best texture, but you can use pre-cooked pasta if you’re in a hurry.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a meal that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat. It’s rich, flavorful, and versatile enough to suit any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting guests, this dish is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy the harmony of creamy, cheesy, and garlicky flavors in every bite.