Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients
For the Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 12 oz fettuccine, linguine, or pasta of your choice
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (use freshly grated for best results)
- ½ cup chicken broth (low sodium recommended)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Extra garlic butter for drizzling
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (tender but firm to the bite).
- Drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later. Set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken Bites
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil.
- While the skillet heats, season the chicken pieces generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Add the chicken to the hot skillet in a single layer (avoid overcrowding to ensure even browning). Cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce for Chicken
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter.
- Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat it in the garlic butter sauce. Turn off the heat and set the chicken aside while you prepare the pasta sauce.
- Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- In a separate skillet or saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth, whisking to combine.
- Reduce the heat to low and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the creamy Parmesan sauce, tossing to coat the pasta thoroughly. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Serve the Dish
- Divide the creamy Parmesan pasta onto plates or a serving platter.
- Top with the garlic butter chicken bites.
- Drizzle with extra garlic butter from the skillet, if desired, for added flavor.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips for Success
- Chicken Doneness: Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties.
- Timing: Work quickly when preparing the sauces to keep the flavors vibrant and prevent overcooking.
- Customization: Add vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms to the sauce for a more wholesome dish.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this dish with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
- A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish that’s easy enough for a weeknight but elegant enough for entertaining!