If you’re craving a dish that feels both cozy and indulgent, you’re going to love this recipe. Plate the pasta and top with garlic butter chicken bites is a divine combination of tender, flavorful chicken paired with a luxuriously creamy Parmesan pasta. Every bite bursts with garlic richness and savory comfort, creating a meal that’s as simple to prepare as it is impressive to serve. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish hits all the right notes and never fails to bring smiles to the table.

Plate the pasta and top with garlic butter chicken bites Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each adding layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this dish unforgettable. From the succulent chicken bites to the silky creamy sauce, every component works in harmony.

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Provides tender, juicy bites that absorb the garlic butter perfectly.
3 tablespoons butter, divided: Adds rich creaminess and helps build that signature garlic butter flavor.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the chicken and sauce with an irresistible aroma and savory depth.
1 teaspoon paprika: Brings a subtle smoky warmth to the chicken seasoning.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all flavors and balances the richness.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick to the seasoning.
1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional): For just a hint of heat that brightens the dish.
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Offers a fresh, green contrast that’s beautiful and flavorful.
8 ounces pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice): The comforting base that soaks up every bit of the creamy sauce.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to create the luscious sauce and prevent sticking.
2 cups heavy cream: The rich foundation for the creamy Parmesan sauce that clings to the pasta.
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melted into the sauce for a sharp, savory depth.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the garlicky notes without overpowering.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sauce perfectly.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Subtle heat to complement the creaminess.
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional): Adds a warm, nutty hint that elevates the sauce’s complexity.

How to Make Plate the pasta and top with garlic butter chicken bites

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling your pasta until it’s just al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite to it without being mushy. Don’t forget to save half a cup of that magical pasta water before draining — it’s key to adjusting the sauce’s consistency later on and ensuring every strand of pasta is perfectly coated.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, toss your chicken bites with paprika, salt, pepper, and chili flakes if you like a bit of heat. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken pieces. Cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally until they’re beautifully golden and cooked through. That golden crust is where the flavor magic happens.

Step 3: Create the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Next, add another tablespoon of butter along with the minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken. Stir gently to coat the chicken completely in the glossy, fragrant garlic butter. This step transforms your chicken bites into bite-sized pockets of garlicky goodness. Set them aside once done.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, add a bit more butter and olive oil, heating over medium. Pour in the heavy cream and season it with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and nutmeg if you’re using it. Let it come to a gentle simmer, then stir in the Parmesan until melted and smooth. Now’s the time to slowly mix in reserved pasta water to achieve that silky sauce that perfectly hugs your pasta.

Step 5: Combine Pasta with Sauce and Chicken

Toss the al dente pasta in the creamy Parmesan sauce, making sure every forkful will be deliciously coated. Finally, Plate the pasta and top with garlic butter chicken bites, allowing the golden garlic notes from the chicken to melt perfectly into the rich, velvety sauce.

How to Serve Plate the pasta and top with garlic butter chicken bites

Garnishes

Brighten your dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley. Not only does this add a refreshing pop of color to the plate, but the fresh herbaceous burst cuts through the richness, leaving you wanting more.

Side Dishes

Balance this rich meal with a crisp, green salad lightly dressed with lemon vinaigrette. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or broccoli also pair beautifully, adding crunchy texture and fresh flavors to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a little extra charm, serve the pasta nest in shallow bowls and arrange the garlic butter chicken bites on top in a circular pattern. Drizzle a bit more garlic butter over the top and finish with a Parmesan shave or two. Presentation can elevate the experience, making your loved ones feel like they’re getting a gourmet treat right at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, transfer the pasta and chicken bites to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To help maintain the sauce’s creaminess, consider storing the pasta and chicken separately.

Freezing

Freezing this dish isn’t recommended due to the creamy sauce, which can separate upon thawing. For best taste and texture, enjoy this meal fresh or within a few days of cooking.

Reheating

When reheating, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of cream or milk to bring back the silky sauce consistency. Gently reheat the chicken bites alongside to avoid drying them out, and enjoy the dish almost as good as freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are slightly more flavorful and juicy, making them an excellent substitute for breasts in this recipe.

What type of pasta works best with this dish?

Fettuccine and penne are fantastic choices because their shapes hold the creamy sauce well, but feel free to use any pasta you love or have on hand.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, you can substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream, paired with a dairy-free cheese substitute.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level is quite mild by default. You can skip the chili flakes for no spice or add more if you like it hotter.

Can I prepare the chicken bites ahead of time?

You can cook the chicken bites earlier in the day and warm them up gently before serving. Just add the garlic butter fresh to keep that vibrant flavor.

Final Thoughts

This dish truly shines when you Plate the pasta and top with garlic butter chicken bites, delivering a perfect blend of creamy, garlicky, and savory flavors that feel like a comforting hug on a plate. Give it a try for your next meal, and I promise it will quickly become a favorite you’ll want to make again and again.

Plate the pasta and top with garlic butter chicken bites Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 9 reviews

Author: Marina
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

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Description

This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe combines tender, flavorful chicken bites cooked in garlic butter with a luscious, creamy Parmesan sauce tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. Ideal for an easy yet indulgent weeknight dinner, this dish offers a rich blend of garlic, butter, and cheese with a subtle hint of spice and fresh herbs.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with paprika, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes if using. This seasoning adds depth and a gentle heat to the chicken.
Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Add Garlic Butter: Add another tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked chicken. Stir well to coat the chicken in the garlic butter. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to keep warm.
Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Pour in the heavy cream and add garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg if using. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Add Parmesan Cheese: Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, adjust the consistency by adding some of the reserved pasta water.
Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the creamy Parmesan sauce and toss thoroughly to coat every piece of pasta evenly with the sauce.
Serve and Garnish: Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta and top with the garlic butter chicken bites. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired for a fresh, vibrant finish.

Notes

For a spicier kick, increase the amount of chili flakes or add freshly ground black pepper.
You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts for juicier bites.
If you prefer a lighter sauce, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, but the sauce will be less rich.
Reserve some pasta water to loosen the sauce and help it cling better to the pasta.
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts best for this sauce compared to pre-grated varieties.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner, Pasta, Chicken
Method: Sautéing, Boiling
Cuisine: Italian-American