Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

why make this recipe

This meal is fast, tasty, and simple. You get juicy garlic butter chicken and a creamy parmesan pasta in one plate. It works for a weeknight dinner or when you want comfort food that cooks quickly.

introduction

This recipe pairs golden chicken bites with a smooth, cheesy sauce over pasta. The flavors are mild and familiar, so most people will like it. For a quick version and more tips, check the 15-minute garlic butter chicken bites recipe.

how to make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Work in simple steps: cook the pasta, brown the chicken, make the sauce, and toss pasta in the sauce. Finish by placing the chicken on top and adding parsley. Use medium heat and watch the cream so it does not boil.

Ingredients :

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 8 oz pasta (like fettuccine or penne)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions :

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and cooked through.
4. In the same skillet, reduce heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine.
5. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
6. Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce until well coated.
7. Serve the chicken bites on top of the creamy pasta, garnish with fresh parsley.

how to serve Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Serve hot on warm plates. Place pasta first, then spoon chicken bites on top. Sprinkle more Parmesan or chopped parsley if you like. A side salad or steamed vegetables makes a fresh contrast.

how to store Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Cool to room temperature. Put in an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on low heat with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Do not freeze cream-based pasta; the sauce can separate when thawed.

tips to make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

• Cut chicken into even pieces so it cooks the same.
• Use fresh grated Parmesan for best melt and flavor.
• Do not boil the cream; heat it low so it stays smooth.
• Reserve some pasta water to thin the sauce if it becomes too thick.
• Taste and adjust salt at the end, since Parmesan is salty.

variation (if any)

• Add spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for more vegetables.
• Swap chicken for shrimp for a seafood twist.
• Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce, but cook gently.
• Add crushed red pepper for heat.

FAQs

Q: Can I use leftover cooked chicken?
A: Yes. Add it at step 6 to warm it in the sauce. Do not overcook.

Q: What pasta cooks best for this recipe?
A: Fettuccine, penne, or any medium pasta works well. Choose one you and your family like.

Q: Can I make the sauce ahead?
A: You can make the sauce and cool it, then store in the fridge for one day. Reheat slowly and add a little cream or pasta water to bring it back.

Q: Is there a dairy-free option?
A: Use dairy-free butter, a plant-based cream, and dairy-free Parmesan. The texture will change but it still works.

Q: How do I stop the sauce from getting grainy?
A: Heat low and add the Parmesan slowly while stirring. Do not boil the sauce.

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