Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites w/ Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Creamy Parmesan Pasta is more than just a dish; it’s a heartwarming culinary experience that promises to transform your dinner table into a haven of savory indulgence. I am absolutely delighted to share with you a recipe that has become a firm favorite in my kitchen, a true testament to how simple, high-quality ingredients can combine to create something truly extraordinary. Prepare yourself for a meal that expertly balances the robust flavors of garlic and butter with the unparalleled richness of a creamy parmesan sauce, making every bite an absolute pleasure.

Why This Dish is a Modern Classic

While the precise combination of this particular creation might be a contemporary comfort food innovation, it beautifully marries the beloved Italian tradition of pasta with the universal appeal of succulent, tender chicken infused with garlic and butter. It’s an homage to global flavors, drawing inspiration from classic techniques to deliver a dish that feels both familiar and exciting. People absolutely adore this recipe for its irresistible taste and texture: the chicken bites are incredibly juicy and flavorful, the pasta is cooked to al dente perfection, and the luscious, velvety parmesan sauce ties everything together into a symphony of pure comfort. There’s a reason why this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Creamy Parmesan Pasta has captured so many hearts; it’s incredibly satisfying, relatively straightforward to prepare, and universally adored by families and dinner guests alike, offering an impressive meal without the fuss.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch bites
• 1 lb fettuccine, linguine, or your preferred pasta
• 6-8 cloves garlic, minced (divided)
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1.5 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
• 1 teaspoon salt, plus more for pasta water
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, plus more for seasoning chicken
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a subtle kick)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (divided, for garnish and mixing)
• Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Preparing the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

1. Prepare the Chicken: First things first, let’s get our chicken ready. I like to take my boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs and pat them really, really dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because it helps us achieve that beautiful golden-brown crust later on. Once dry, cut the chicken into uniform 1-inch bite-sized pieces. Aim for consistency here, as it ensures all the chicken cooks evenly.
2. Season the Chicken: In a medium bowl, toss the chicken bites with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Make sure every piece is nicely coated with our flavorful spice blend. This initial seasoning is key to building a deep, rich flavor profile for our “Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Creamy Parmesan Pasta.”
3. Dredge the Chicken: Now, let’s prepare the chicken for searing. In a shallow dish, place the 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour. Take each seasoned chicken bite and dredge it lightly in the flour, shaking off any excess. We’re not looking for a thick batter here, just a very thin coating. This thin flour coating will help create a lovely crust and also slightly thicken our sauce later on. It’s a little trick that adds so much to the texture!
4. Sear the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and the oil is shimmering, carefully add the floured chicken bites to the pan in a single layer. It’s important not to overcrowd the pan. If you put too many pieces in at once, the temperature will drop, and the chicken will steam instead of sear, preventing that coveted golden-brown crust. Work in batches if necessary, allowing each batch to cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, until deeply golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, transfer the chicken bites to a plate and set aside. Don’t worry about any browned bits left in the pan – those are pure flavor and we’ll use them for our sauce!
5. Infuse with Garlic (First Pass): After removing the chicken, reduce the heat to medium. Add 2 more tablespoons of unsalted butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add about half of your minced garlic (roughly 3-4 cloves). Sauté the garlic for just about 30-60 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter. This step builds the initial garlic butter base that our chicken bites will eventually be swimming in.

Cooking the Pasta

6. Boil the Pasta Water: While the chicken is resting, it’s time to get our pasta going. Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Don’t skimp on the salt here; the water should taste like the sea. This is your only chance to season the pasta itself, and it makes a huge difference in the final dish.
7. Cook the Pasta: Add your chosen pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or whatever your heart desires) to the boiling water. Cook according to package directions until it’s al dente. What does “al dente” mean? It means “to the tooth” – the pasta should be tender but still have a slight firmness when you bite into it. It’s crucial not to overcook it, as it will continue to cook a little bit when we toss it with our hot sauce.
8. Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining the pasta, be sure to reserve about 1 to 1.5 cups of the starchy pasta cooking water. This pasta water is like liquid gold for our sauce! It’s full of starch, which helps to emulsify the sauce, making it incredibly creamy and velvety, and helping it cling beautifully to the pasta. Trust me on this; it’s a game-changer.
9. Drain and Set Aside: Once you’ve reserved the pasta water, drain the rest of the water from the pasta and set the pasta aside. You can drizzle it with a tiny bit of olive oil if you’re worried about it sticking, but if you’re moving straight to the sauce, it’s usually not necessary.

Crafting the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

10. Build the Garlic Butter Base: Using the same skillet where you seared the chicken (don’t clean it – those browned bits are flavor!), ensure the heat is still at medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the pan. Once melted, add the remaining half of your minced garlic (3-4 cloves) along with the 1/2 teaspoon of Italian seasoning and 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is wonderfully fragrant and slightly softened, but not browned. This aromatic foundation is vital for our “Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Creamy Parmesan Pasta.”
11. Deglaze with Chicken Broth: Pour in the 2 cups of chicken broth. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up all those delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan – this is called deglazing, and it’s where a tremendous amount of flavor comes from. Let the broth simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly and concentrate those flavors.
12. Add the Heavy Cream: Reduce the heat to low. Slowly pour in the 2 cups of heavy cream, stirring continuously. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, but be careful not to let it boil aggressively, as heavy cream can sometimes curdle if heated too intensely. We want a smooth, luxurious base for our creamy Parmesan sauce.
13. Incorporate the Parmesan Cheese: This is where the magic truly happens! Begin adding the 1.5 cups of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a handful at a time, stirring constantly until each addition is fully melted and incorporated into the sauce before adding more. Using freshly grated Parmesan is absolutely key here; pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce gritty or prevent it from melting smoothly. Stir until the sauce is smooth, velvety, and beautifully thickened.
14. Season the Sauce: Taste the sauce. Now is the time to adjust the seasoning. Add more salt and pepper to your liking. If you feel it needs a little brightness, a tiny squeeze of lemon juice (optional, but highly recommended by me!) can elevate the flavors without making it taste lemony. The sauce should be rich, savory, and perfectly balanced.
15. Adjust Consistency with Pasta Water: If your sauce is too thick (and it might be, especially as the cheese melts in), gradually whisk in some of that reserved starchy pasta water, a tablespoon or two at a time, until you reach your desired creamy consistency. This pasta water not only thins the sauce but also helps it emulsify, making it incredibly silky and ensuring it coats every strand of pasta beautifully.

Bringing It All Together: Assembling the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Creamy Parmesan Pasta

16. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Gently return the seared garlic butter chicken bites to the skillet with the creamy Parmesan sauce. Stir carefully to coat all the chicken pieces evenly. Let the chicken warm through in the sauce for a minute or two.
17. Add the Pasta: Now, add the cooked and drained pasta directly into the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Using tongs, gently toss everything together, ensuring every strand of pasta and every chicken bite is thoroughly coated with that luscious, creamy Parmesan sauce. This is why we wanted that reserved pasta water – to make sure the sauce is the perfect consistency to cling to the pasta.
18. Final Touches: Stir in about half of your fresh chopped parsley (approximately 2 tablespoons). This adds a burst of freshness and color that beautifully complements the richness of the dish. Give it one last taste test. Does it need a little more salt? A dash more pepper? A tiny bit more Parmesan? Adjust according to your preference.

Serving and Garnish

19. Serve Immediately: This “Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Creamy Parmesan Pasta” is best enjoyed fresh off the stove. The creamy sauce is at its peak when warm and just made.
20. Garnish: Plate generous portions of the pasta. Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of the remaining fresh chopped parsley and an extra dusting of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. If you enjoy a touch of acidity, a lemon wedge on the side for a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can really brighten up the flavors.

21. Enjoy Your Homemade Masterpiece!

    There you have it – a truly decadent and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight family dinner or a special occasion. The tender, flavorful garlic butter chicken bites nestled in a rich, creamy Parmesan pasta is simply irresistible. This dish truly highlights the versatility and deliciousness of chicken and pasta, all brought together by a spectacular sauce. I hope you love making and eating this “Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Creamy Parmesan Pasta” as much as I do! It’s a complete meal in one, offering a wonderful balance of protein, carbs, and incredible flavor.

Conclusion:

Well, my friends, we’ve come to the end of our culinary journey, and I genuinely hope you’re feeling as inspired and hungry as I am right now. After all we’ve discussed, I believe it’s abundantly clear why this particular recipe for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Creamy Parmesan Pasta isn’t just another dish to add to your repertoire; it’s a true game-changer. It’s the kind of meal that manages to be both incredibly comforting and remarkably elegant, striking that perfect balance between homely warmth and restaurant-quality flair. From the moment those succulent chicken bites sizzle in fragrant garlic butter to the luscious embrace of the creamy Parmesan sauce coating every strand of pasta, this recipe delivers an explosion of flavor that will undoubtedly tantalize your taste buds and leave you utterly satisfied.

I crafted this recipe with the busy home cook in mind, knowing that we all crave delicious, hearty meals that don’t require an entire afternoon of slaving over a hot stove. It’s designed to be straightforward, forgiving, and incredibly rewarding. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, allowing the high-quality ingredients to truly shine. The tender, golden-brown chicken, infused with savory garlic and rich butter, provides the perfect counterpoint to the velvety, cheesy pasta, creating a symphony of textures and tastes that dance on your palate. It’s truly a dish that brings people together, fostering warmth and happiness around the dining table, making it ideal for a weeknight family dinner or a relaxed gathering with friends.

Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Meal

While the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Creamy Parmesan Pasta is undoubtedly a complete and satisfying meal on its own, a few thoughtful additions can transform it into an even more memorable dining experience. To cut through the richness and add a refreshing element, I highly recommend serving it alongside a simple, crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette – perhaps a lemon-herb or balsamic dressing. A basket of warm, crusty artisan bread is also an absolute must; it’s perfect for soaking up every last drop of that glorious creamy sauce. For beverages, a glass of crisp, dry white wine like a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc would complement the flavors beautifully, or for a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a hint of lemon or lime would be lovely. Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil right before serving to add a pop of color and an extra layer of freshness.

Endless Variations to Make It Your Own

One of the things I love most about cooking is the freedom to experiment and customize, and this recipe is incredibly adaptable. Don’t be afraid to make it your own! If you like a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes added with the garlic will give it a wonderful kick. Looking to sneak in some extra veggies? Sauté some fresh spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, sliced mushrooms, or tender asparagus spears right along with the chicken, or stir them into the sauce at the end. For a different twist on protein, consider swapping the chicken for succulent shrimp or even some pan-seared scallops. If you’re catering to dietary needs, gluten-free pasta works wonderfully, and for a lighter touch, you could experiment with whole wheat pasta. You could also play with different cheese blends – a touch of Gruyère or even some smoked Gouda could add an exciting new dimension to the creamy sauce. The possibilities are truly endless, and I encourage you to get creative in your kitchen!

So, there you have it. My heartfelt plea for you to give this phenomenal recipe a try. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create something truly delicious and bring joy to your table. I promise you, once you taste the exquisite combination of flavors in this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Creamy Parmesan Pasta, it will become a cherished favorite in your home. When you do make it, please don’t keep the experience to yourself! I would absolutely love to hear all about your culinary adventures. Share your photos, tell me about any variations you tried, and let me know what you and your loved ones thought. Your feedback and creativity inspire me, and I can’t wait to see your wonderful creations. Happy cooking, everyone!

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Creamy Parmesan Pasta

A heartwarming culinary experience, this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a delicious fusion of comfort food and Italian-American flavors. Tender, bite-sized chicken in a fragrant garlic butter sauce is served over luscious, rich Parmesan pasta, making every bite an absolute pleasure. Perfect for cozy weeknights or special occasions, it delivers an indulgent and satisfying meal with simplicity.

Prep Time
20 Minutes

Cook Time
35 Minutes

Total Time
55 Minutes

Servings
4-6 servings

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch bites
• 1 lb fettuccine, linguine, or preferred pasta
• 6-8 cloves garlic, minced (divided)
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1.5 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
• 1 tsp salt, plus more for pasta water
• 1/2 tsp black pepper, plus more for seasoning chicken
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (divided)
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (divided)
• Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Pat 1.5 lbs chicken dry, cut into 1-inch bites. Season with 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp onion powder, and 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning. Lightly dredge in 1/4 cup flour. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil and 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken in batches, 3-4 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through (165°F). Remove chicken. Add 2 tbsp butter and half of minced garlic to skillet, sauté 30-60 seconds until fragrant.
2. Step 2
   Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add 1 lb pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 to 1.5 cups of pasta water before draining.
3. Step 3
   In the same skillet, add remaining 2 tbsp butter, remaining minced garlic, 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté 1 minute. Deglaze with 2 cups chicken broth, simmering 3-5 minutes. Reduce heat to low, stir in 2 cups heavy cream, bringing to a gentle simmer. Gradually add 1.5 cups freshly grated Parmesan, stirring until smooth and velvety. Season with salt and pepper, and whisk in reserved pasta water for desired consistency.
4. Step 4
   Return seared chicken bites to the skillet with the sauce. Add cooked pasta and toss to thoroughly coat. Stir in half of the 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Step 5
   Serve immediately, garnished with remaining fresh chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. A lemon wedge can be served on the side for an optional burst of acidity.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.