Few things rival the irresistible aroma of garlic and butter sizzling in a pan. Picture tender, golden chicken bites paired with pasta coated in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce—comfort food at its finest
This recipe combines bold flavors with simplicity. Juicy, garlicky chicken meets silky pasta in a sauce that’s cheesy, creamy, and utterly satisfying. Perfect for family dinners, date nights, or a weeknight treat, it impresses without requiring fancy ingredients or hours of prep.
🍴 Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients
For the Chicken Bites
Boneless, skinless chicken breast – 1½ lbs, cut into bite-sized cubes
Olive oil – 2 tbsp, for searing
Unsalted butter – 3 tbsp, divided
Garlic – 5 cloves, minced
Italian seasoning – 1 tsp
Smoked paprika – ½ tsp (optional, for color)
Salt & black pepper – to taste
Fresh parsley – 1 tbsp, chopped (for garnish)
For the Parmesan Pasta
Fettuccine or spaghetti – 8 oz (225 g)
Butter – 2 tbsp
Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
Heavy cream – 1 cup
Chicken broth – ½ cup
Parmesan cheese – ¾ cup, freshly grated
Chili flakes – ½ tsp (optional, for mild heat)
Salt & pepper – to taste
Fresh parsley or basil – for garnish
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook pasta until al dente according to package instructions.
Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Cook the Chicken Bites
Heat olive oil and 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Season chicken cubes with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
Cook 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through.
Add garlic in the last minute, stir, then remove chicken from pan.
3. Make the Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter.
Sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in heavy cream and chicken broth, bring to a gentle simmer.
Whisk in Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes.
If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
4. Combine Pasta and Chicken
Toss cooked pasta in the sauce until evenly coated.
Return chicken to the skillet and stir to combine.
Simmer 1–2 minutes to meld flavors.
5. Serve
Garnish with parsley or basil.
Optionally, add extra Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
Serve warm with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
✨ Cozy, garlicky, and indulgent, this dish proves that comfort food can be simple, satisfying, and spectacular.
