These Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are super juicy and full of flavor! Paired with creamy Parmesan pasta, it’s a dish that just hugs your taste buds.
Honestly, who can resist chicken coated in buttery garlic goodness? I love whipping this up for dinner when I want something quick and delicious. Plus, it’s a hit with the family every time! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here for quick cooking. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you could use chicken thighs, which are juicier. For a vegetarian twist, try using cubed tofu or tempeh.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings so much flavor to the dish. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder could work, but I always prefer fresh for that aromatic punch!
Pasta: While I used fettuccine, you can switch it up with any pasta you have on hand, like penne or even gluten-free options. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor and texture. If you’re in a hurry, pre-grated works too, but it may not melt as smoothly. For a non-dairy option, look for nutritional yeast for a cheesy kick!
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Tender Chicken Bites?
Cooking chicken bites to perfection can be tricky, but here are a few tips:
- Cut chicken into uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet! Give each piece space to brown properly.
- Cook over medium-high heat for a nice sear, then move to medium for finishing without burning.
- Keep an eye on cooking time; around 5-7 minutes is usually just right.
These tips will help you lock in the juicy texture and delicious flavor in your chicken bites! Enjoy your meal!
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For The Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or your choice)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup pasta water (reserved from cooking pasta)
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes boiling and cooking the pasta, while the chicken bites will take around 15-20 minutes. It’s a quick but flavorful meal, perfect for busy weeknights!
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 done, reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water before draining it. Set the drained pasta aside for now.
2. Season and Cook the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken bites with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the butter and let it melt completely. Then, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, if using. Sauté for about 1 minute or until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. This will create a delicious garlic butter sauce!
4. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat in the garlic butter sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Once done, remove from heat.
5. Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
In a separate saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter for the pasta. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Then, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Slowly stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth, creating a creamy sauce.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the creamy sauce, tossing well to coat every strand. If the sauce seems too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta onto serving dishes and top with the garlic butter chicken bites. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a touch of freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor to the dish. Just cook them in the same way, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No worries! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk. Just keep in mind that the sauce may be a little less creamy, so you might need to add extra cheese for a richer flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if necessary.
Can I Make This Dish Spicy?
If you like a kick, feel free to add more red pepper flakes for extra heat! You could also mix in a touch of hot sauce or serve it with red pepper sauce on the side for those who enjoy spice.
