These Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are crispy, juicy, and full of flavor! Paired with creamy Parmesan pasta, this dish is like a warm hug on your plate. Yum!
If you’re like me, you’ll love how quick this meal is to whip up. Perfect for busy nights when you want something fancy with minimal effort. Plus, extra garlic butter, please! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer using chicken thighs for their rich flavor and juiciness, but chicken breasts work well too. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, consider using firm tofu or chickpeas in place of chicken.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best here so you can control the saltiness of the dish. If you need a dairy-free option, use olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute instead. It still tastes great!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor! If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder can be used in a pinch (1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder = 1 clove). But fresh is always my favorite!
Pasta: Fettuccine suits this dish well, but feel free to swap for any pasta you have on hand—penne, spaghetti, or even whole grain pasta adds a nice twist.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is ideal for that creamy texture. If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a vegan option) works as a good substitute.
How Do You Get the Chicken Bites Crispy and Flavorful?
Getting that perfect crisp and flavor in your chicken bites comes from proper seasoning and cooking. Start by seasoning your chicken well with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if you like a hint of smokiness.
- Heat oil and butter together for a great cooking fat blend—this helps with flavor and browning.
- Cook in batches if necessary; overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming instead of browning!
- Allow them to sear without moving them too much. This helps achieve a nice brown crust.
Once cooked, tossing them in garlic butter immediately will amplify that delicious flavor!
How Can You Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce Smooth and Tasty?
The creamy sauce is where the magic happens! Here are some tips to ensure it comes out perfectly:
- Use a whisk to keep the sauce smooth while adding the cheese.
- Always add cheese off the heat to prevent clumping. Allow the sauce to cool slightly before adding it.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you get that perfect creamy consistency.
This creamy sauce can really elevate your pasta dish. Adjust the thickness until it fits your liking!
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 oz (225g) fettuccine or pasta of choice
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 tsp Italian seasoning or dried oregano (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25-30 minutes to prepare and cook. With a little multitasking, you can have this delicious meal ready in no time! Just cook the pasta while you make the chicken, and it all comes together beautifully.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta, but remember to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later. This will help adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed!
2. Prepare the Chicken Bites:
While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if you’d like a touch of smoky flavor). In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce for Chicken:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant (be careful not to burn it!). Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss everything together to coat the chicken bites in that delicious garlic butter sauce. Remove from heat.
4. Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Pasta Sauce:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Next, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning or oregano if using. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss well to combine. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add a little reserved pasta water until you reach your preferred consistency!
5. Serve:
Now it’s time to plate up! Place a serving of the creamy Parmesan pasta on each plate and top it with the garlic butter chicken bites. Don’t forget to garnish with freshly chopped parsley for that beautiful touch!
6. Enjoy Immediately!
This scrumptious meal pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some steamed veggies for a complete and satisfying dinner. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are fantastic in this recipe due to their flavor and juiciness. Just make sure they’re boneless and skinless for the best results, and adjust the cooking time slightly if they’re thicker than breasts.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to revive the sauce!
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Yes, you can! For a lighter option, try using half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less creamy. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, coconut milk can work, though it will impart a different flavor.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve with This Meal?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted vegetables. Garlic bread or a fresh baguette would also be great to soak up that delicious creamy sauce!
