Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is one of those recipes that instantly wins over anyone lucky enough to taste it. Imagine tender, golden-seared chicken bites coated in rich garlic butter, served over perfectly cooked pasta wrapped in a luxuriously creamy Parmesan sauce. It’s the kind of comforting, flavor-packed dish that feels restaurant-worthy—yet comes together in just 30 minutes.
⭐ Why You’ll Love This Dish
This recipe checks all the boxes: fast, easy, budget-friendly, and irresistibly delicious. The chicken bites are juicy and flavorful, the creamy Parmesan pasta is velvety and indulgent, and together they create a meal that tastes like it took hours—when it actually takes less than half an hour.
🍗 Ingredients & Their Roles
For the Chicken Bites
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
Creates quick-cooking, tender pieces with maximum surface area for browning. - 2 tbsp cornstarch or flour
Helps achieve a crisp, golden crust while locking in moisture. - 1 tsp garlic powder
Adds savory depth and amplifies the garlic profile. - Salt and black pepper
Essential for enhancing the chicken’s natural flavors. - 2 tbsp butter
Provides richness and forms the base of the garlic butter flavor. - 1 tbsp olive oil
Prevents butter from burning and aids even browning. - 2 cloves garlic, minced
Infuses the chicken with fresh, fragrant aroma. - Fresh parsley, chopped
A bright finishing touch that balances the richness.
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- 8 oz pasta (cavatappi, penne, or similar)
Short shapes hold the creamy sauce beautifully. - 1 cup heavy cream
Creates the base of the silky, luxurious sauce. - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Adds salty, nutty richness and helps thicken the sauce. - 1 tbsp butter
Helps emulsify the sauce and adds another layer of creaminess. - Salt and black pepper
Balances and brightens the cheesy, creamy flavors.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
-
Prepare the Chicken
- In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cornstarch or flour until evenly coated.
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken in an even layer. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Remove the chicken and keep warm.
-
Cook the Pasta
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside. (Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water if needed later.)
-
Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked pasta and toss until fully coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
-
Assemble & Serve
- Place the creamy Parmesan pasta on plates or a serving dish.
- Top with the garlic butter chicken bites.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.
💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Sear the chicken in batches if needed for even browning.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan. It melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
- Reserve pasta water. A splash helps loosen and re-emulsify the sauce if it thickens too much.
- Simmer the cream gently. Avoid vigorous boiling to prevent separation.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
This dish is a complete meal on its own, but for an elevated dinner serve with:
- Garlic bread or crusty warm baguette
- A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus
- A crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
⭐ Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a recipe that combines quick prep, simple ingredients, and restaurant-quality flavor, this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is exactly what you need. It’s comforting, rich, and guaranteed to become a repeat favorite. With its irresistible combination of buttery chicken and velvety pasta, this dish deserves a permanent spot in your weekly rotation. Enjoy every delicious bite! 🍽✨
