There's something magical about the combination of tender chicken bites, buttery garlic, and a creamy Parmesan pasta sauce that feels like a hug on a plate. The sizzle of chicken in the pan and the aroma of garlic filling the kitchen promise a meal that's as comforting as it is indulgent.
I discovered this recipe during a hectic week when I craved something satisfying yet simple. Now, it's my go-to for busy nights or casual get-togethers. Let me show you why this dish is about to become your new favorite.
Why You'll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites With Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Get ready for a dish that's packed with flavor, easy to make, and guaranteed to impress. Whether you're cooking for your family or hosting friends, this recipe has something for everyone.
First, the garlic butter chicken bites are an absolute standout. They're seared to perfection, locking in the juices while delivering a crispy, golden exterior that’s irresistible.
The creamy Parmesan pasta is comfort food at its finest. It's rich and velvety, clinging to every bite of pasta for an indulgent experience. The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates a flavor profile that’s savory and deeply satisfying.
One of the best things about this dish is how quickly it comes together. In less than 40 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table. It’s ideal for weeknights when time is of the essence.
Finally, this recipe is highly adaptable. Swap the chicken for shrimp or make it vegetarian with mushrooms or roasted vegetables. It’s a flexible, crowd-pleasing dish you’ll return to again and again.
Ingredients Notes

This recipe shines because of its simple, high-quality ingredients. Each element contributes to the dish's overall richness and balance.
The chicken is the star of the show. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best, cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. The smaller pieces mean more surface area for browning, giving you perfectly seared bites.
Butter and garlic are essential for the sauce. The butter provides a luxurious base, while the garlic infuses the chicken and pasta with a rich, savory aroma. Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
Pasta acts as the perfect vehicle for the creamy sauce. I recommend using fettuccine or penne, as these shapes hold onto the sauce beautifully. Cooking the pasta al dente ensures it retains a pleasant bite.
For the sauce, Parmesan cheese is key. Grate it fresh for a smooth, creamy texture that melts seamlessly into the sauce. Pre-shredded cheese may not melt as evenly, so skip the shortcuts here.
A splash of heavy cream ties everything together, creating a luscious, silky sauce. If you're looking to lighten things up, you can use half-and-half, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.
A good-quality chicken broth adds depth to the sauce, enhancing the overall flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
How To Make This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites With Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Creating this mouthwatering dish is easier than you think. Here's how to do it step by step.
Start by prepping your ingredients. Dice your chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika for added flavor. Mince your garlic and set aside, as it will be the key ingredient for the sauce.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt a generous pat of butter. Once the butter starts to foam, add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes to develop a golden-brown crust before flipping. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate.
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add more butter along with the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as it can become bitter.
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, then whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until smooth. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick if desired.
Meanwhile, cook your pasta in a pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve about half a cup of the pasta water before draining. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce seems too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Return the cooked chicken bites to the skillet, nestling them into the pasta and sauce. Allow everything to heat through for 2-3 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Storage Options
If you have leftovers (though it's unlikely!), this dish stores beautifully. Transfer the pasta and chicken to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
For freezing, place portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce's creamy texture. Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until heated through.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your liking.
For a seafood twist, substitute the chicken with shrimp or scallops. Sear them quickly in the garlic butter before proceeding with the sauce.
Vegetarians can replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted red peppers. The rich sauce pairs beautifully with a variety of veggies.
If you're avoiding dairy, swap the heavy cream and Parmesan with a plant-based cream and nutritional yeast. The flavor won’t be identical, but it will still be delicious.
Looking for a gluten-free option? Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth and Parmesan are certified gluten-free.
Add a touch of brightness by squeezing fresh lemon juice into the sauce or garnishing with lemon zest. It cuts through the richness and adds a fresh twist.
This dish is a canvas for your creativity. Play around with different proteins, vegetables, and seasonings to make it your own. No matter how you tweak it, one thing’s for sure – it’ll be a hit at the table!
PrintGarlic Butter Chicken Bites With Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe combines tender chicken bites cooked in garlic butter with a rich and creamy parmesan pasta for a comforting, satisfying meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this dish is packed with flavor and easy to prepare.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 oz pasta of choice (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ tsp red chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken Bites:
- Heat 2 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken pieces with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Prepare the Pasta:
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoon butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream, stirring constantly. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add grated parmesan cheese and whisk until smooth and creamy.
- Season with red chili flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Combine and Serve:
- Toss the cooked pasta in the creamy sauce until well coated.
- Plate the pasta and top with garlic butter chicken bites.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic for maximum flavor.
- Adjust the seasoning to your preference.
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
- Add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ¼ recipe
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
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