Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Few aromas are as comforting and instantly crave-worthy as garlic and butter sizzling together in a hot pan. It’s the kind of smell that pulls everyone into the kitchen and sets the tone for a meal that feels indulgent, cozy, and deeply satisfying. This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe brings that magic to life with tender, golden chicken and pasta coated in a luxuriously smooth Parmesan cream sauce.
This dish strikes the perfect balance between bold flavor and everyday simplicity. Juicy chicken bites are seared until lightly crisp on the outside, then finished with butter and garlic for maximum flavor. The pasta is tossed in a silky, cheesy sauce that clings to every strand, creating a restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.
Whether you’re cooking for family, planning a cozy date night, or just treating yourself after a long day, this recipe delivers comfort and elegance without requiring fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick enough for weeknights but impressive enough for guests
- Rich, creamy sauce without being overly heavy
- Simple pantry ingredients with big flavor payoff
- Easy to customize with vegetables or spice
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast – 1½ lbs, cut into bite-sized cubes
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons, for searing
- Unsalted butter – 3 tablespoons, divided
- Garlic – 5 cloves, minced
- Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon
- Smoked paprika – ½ teaspoon (optional)
- Salt & black pepper – to taste
- Fresh parsley – 1 tablespoon, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- Fettuccine or spaghetti – 8 oz (225 g)
- Butter – 2 tablespoons
- Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
- Heavy cream – 1 cup
- Chicken broth – ½ cup
- Parmesan cheese – ¾ cup, freshly grated
- Chili flakes – ½ teaspoon (optional)
- Salt & pepper – to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil – for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Sear the Chicken Bites
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cubes in a single layer and season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add Garlic Butter Flavor
Reduce heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet along with the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Return the chicken to the pan, toss to coat, then remove from heat and keep warm.
4. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
In a separate pan or the same skillet wiped clean, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring gently. Let the mixture simmer for 3–4 minutes.
Slowly whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes if using. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
5. Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until evenly coated. Plate the pasta and top generously with garlic butter chicken bites. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. For an extra indulgent touch, finish with additional shaved Parmesan at the table.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is one of those meals that feels special every time you make it. Rich, comforting, and packed with flavor, it proves that simple ingredients and thoughtful cooking can create something truly unforgettable. Once you try it, this recipe is sure to earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.