Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe is the ultimate comfort food. With tender chicken bites cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce and tossed with creamy Parmesan pasta, this dish is perfect for a quick and indulgent weeknight meal. The combination of creamy, cheesy pasta and savory chicken bites makes it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Pasta:
- 4 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh basil
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the cubed chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
3. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream.
- Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine the Pasta and Chicken
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly in the sauce.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with freshly chopped basil and serve hot. For an extra touch, sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
Pro Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Bites and Pasta
- Use Fresh Parmesan Cheese:
Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-packaged varieties, ensuring a smooth and creamy sauce. - Don’t Overcook the Chicken:
Cook the chicken just until it’s golden and tender to avoid drying it out. - Boost Flavor with Wine:
Add a splash of white wine to the pan after cooking the chicken and before adding the cream for an elevated flavor profile. - Kick it Up a Notch:
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick, or toss in sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist. - Serve Immediately:
Cream-based sauces tend to thicken as they cool, so serve the dish right away for the best texture.
Common Questions About Garlic Butter Chicken Bites and Parmesan Pasta
Q1: Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! Fettuccine, linguine, or even rigatoni work well in this recipe. Choose your favorite pasta shape.
Q2: What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter sauce. Add a bit of flour or cornstarch to thicken it if needed.
Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can make the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.
Q4: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and work just as well in this recipe.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Mistake 1: Curdled Sauce
If the heat is too high when adding the cream, it can curdle. Keep the heat low and stir continuously while incorporating the cream and Parmesan.
Mistake 2: Overcooked Pasta
Pasta should be cooked al dente to avoid becoming mushy when combined with the sauce.
Mistake 3: Bland Chicken
Don’t forget to season the chicken generously with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance its flavor.
Pairing Suggestions
Serve this dish with:
- A warm loaf of garlic bread
- A crisp Caesar salad
- A glass of Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, or sparkling water with a slice of lemon
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