These Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are juicy and full of flavor, tossed in rich butter with a hint of garlic. Pair them with creamy parmesan pasta for a match made in heaven!
You won’t believe how easy this is to whip up! I love serving it on busy nights because it’s quick and sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, who can resist that buttery goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. If you prefer, you can swap chicken for shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Both will take on the delicious garlic butter flavor nicely!
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add a great punch. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but I recommend sticking with fresh for the best taste.
Pasta: Fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti are all fantastic choices. Feel free to use whole grain or gluten-free pasta if it fits your dietary needs!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is key for creaminess. If you can’t find it, Pecorino Romano or a blend of other hard cheeses can work too.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Bites Are Juicy and Flavorful?
Cooking the chicken bites properly is crucial for a juicy texture. Start with seasoning before cooking: salt, pepper, and garlic powder work wonders.
- Heat your olive oil on medium-high before adding the chicken. This helps give a nice sear, locking in flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook in batches if needed to ensure they brown nicely.
- Cook until just cooked through (5-7 mins). Take them off the heat as soon as they’re done for the best juiciness!
What’s the Best Way to Create a Creamy Sauce?
Getting that creamy consistency for your pasta sauce is all about timing and temperature.
- Start by sautéing the garlic on medium heat to prevent burning. You want it nice and fragrant.
- Add heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer; this helps it thicken without curdling.
- Add cheese gradually and stir until it’s fully melted before adding the pasta. This ensures a smooth sauce!
- Don’t forget to adjust thickness with reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until your sauce is just right.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (such as fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend approximately 10 minutes cooking the pasta and chicken, and another 20 minutes to put together the creamy sauce and combine everything. It’s a quick and satisfying meal for busy evenings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water. Set the pasta aside while you prepare the chicken.
2. Prepare the Chicken Bites:
Season the chicken bites with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Let it melt, then add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic until it becomes fragrant, about 1 minute. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing it to coat in the garlic butter. If you’re using parsley, stir it in now, then remove from the heat and cover to keep warm.
4. Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
In a separate large pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer, allowing it to reduce slightly for about 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Next, add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat thoroughly. If the sauce feels too thick, add some reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta and top it with the garlic butter chicken bites. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs. Serve immediately and enjoy this tasty dish!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, making them a great option for this recipe. Just follow the same cooking instructions, and you’ll have delicious chicken bites!
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No worries! If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half or whole milk. However, for a creamy consistency, consider adding a little bit of flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce if using milk.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat or use the microwave in short intervals to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! You can replace the chicken with firm tofu or your favorite vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms. Sauté them in the garlic butter as you would with chicken for a tasty vegetarian alternative!
