Looking for a quick, satisfying, and absolutely delicious dinner that will please the entire family? Look no further than Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta. This dish combines golden, flavorful chicken bites with a luscious Parmesan cream sauce, all served over perfectly cooked pasta. It’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you need a hearty, comforting meal that comes together in no time.
Whether you’re exploring Easy Flavorful Pasta Recipes or searching for Chicken Family Recipes that everyone will love, this recipe is bound to be your new favorite. Plus, it’s affordable, making it a perfect fit for those seeking Cheap Chicken Meals Budget options without compromising on taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for those nights when you’re short on time but want a home-cooked meal. These Garlic Chicken Butter Bites cook up in under 30 minutes!
- Budget-Friendly: Using simple, pantry-staple ingredients, this recipe is great for anyone looking for Cheap Chicken Meals Budget ideas.
- Family-Friendly: Creamy pasta paired with juicy chicken bites makes this dish a hit with both kids and adults.
- Restaurant Quality at Home: With its rich, velvety sauce and perfectly cooked chicken, this dish rivals anything you’d find in a restaurant—but it’s made in your kitchen!
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 12 ounces bucatini pasta (or spaghetti, fettuccine, or your favorite pasta)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bucatini pasta according to the package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sear for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, until fragrant. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the chicken and toss again until the cheese melts slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- In a separate skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the creamy Parmesan sauce and toss to coat.
- Top the pasta with the garlic butter chicken bites. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the ultimate Easy Yummy Chicken Dinners dish!
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Bite-sized pieces cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to ensure they stay juicy and tender.
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Pre-grated Parmesan can be dry and doesn’t melt as smoothly. Freshly grated cheese ensures a silky, creamy sauce.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until it’s perfectly creamy.
- Double the Recipe: This dish reheats beautifully, so make extra for quick lunches or dinners later in the week!
Why This Recipe Works
This dish combines the best elements of comfort food: creamy pasta, savory chicken, and rich garlic butter. It’s the perfect balance of flavors—savory, slightly nutty from the Parmesan, and indulgently creamy. The Garlic Chicken Bites With Parmesan Pasta are incredibly versatile, pairing well with a side salad or even roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter or Parmesan sauce for a spicy twist.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for added nutrition and color.
- Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the garlic butter for a bright, zesty flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with:
- Garlic Bread: To soak up every bit of the creamy Parmesan sauce.
- Side Salad: A crisp Caesar or arugula salad balances the richness of the pasta.
- Steamed Veggies: Broccoli or green beans add a light, fresh contrast.
Why It’s Perfect for Weeknights
In the world of Best Weeknight Dinners Easy Meals, this recipe shines for its simplicity and versatility. With just a handful of ingredients and a single skillet for the chicken,
this dish minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor. The buttery chicken bites and creamy pasta come together quickly, making it an ideal choice for those evenings when you want a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a dinner that satisfies every craving. It’s hearty, indulgent, and easy to make—a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Whether you’re looking for Easy Yummy Chicken Dinners or experimenting with new Chicken Bucatini Recipes, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
From the savory chicken to the creamy Parmesan sauce, this recipe delivers comfort and elegance in every bite. Make it once, and it’ll earn a permanent spot on your dinner rotation!
