Delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Tender chicken in garlic butter paired with velvety parmesan pasta makes the perfect comforting and satisfying weeknight meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
8 oz fettuccine or pasta of your choice
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for the sauce.
Cook the Chicken Bites:
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Add the chicken back into the skillet, tossing it in the garlic butter sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes to coat the chicken in the flavor.
Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
In a separate large skillet or pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, then pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and continue to simmer until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the creamy Parmesan sauce, tossing it to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Serve:
Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta and top with the garlic butter chicken bites. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Add Veggies: Feel free to add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for extra nutrition and flavor.
Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a spicy kick.
Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream and a dairy-free Parmesan substitute for a dairy-free version of this dish.
Make Ahead: The chicken can be prepped ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days, making this meal even quicker on busy nights.
