Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Parmesan Pasta
This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Parmesan Pasta recipe is quick, creamy, and packed with flavor. Juicy chicken bites seared in garlic butter are tossed with silky Parmesan pasta for a weeknight dinner that feels restaurant-worthy but is ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken Bites:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- For the Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 oz pasta penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk for lighter version
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes optional, for heat
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente. Drain, reserving ½–1 cup of pasta water.
- Cook Chicken Bites:
- Season chicken with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet. Sear chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Lower heat, add butter and garlic, and toss until fragrant. Set aside.
- Make Parmesan Sauce:
- In another pan, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Stir in cream and Parmesan, whisking until smooth. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water.
- Combine Pasta & Chicken:
- Toss cooked pasta into the sauce until coated. Fold in chicken bites.
- Garnish & Serve:
- Top with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot
Notes
- Don’t overcrowd the chicken while cooking—work in batches for the best golden crust.
- Always use freshly grated Parmesan for a smooth, melty sauce.
- Add vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra depth.
- To lighten up, swap heavy cream for milk or Greek yogurt.
- Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.