Velvety Garlic Butter Chicken With Parmesan Pasta Recipe

Easy Velvety Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Pasta Recipe

My recent culinary adventure with garlic butter chicken sparked an incredible pasta sensation that’ll make your taste buds dance.

creamy Parmesan and tender chicken create a magical combination few recipes can match.

Weeknight dinners deserve something extraordinary that doesn’t require complicated techniques.

Rich flavors emerge from simple ingredients blended with surprising ease.

butter melts into a silky sauce that coats each pasta strand perfectly.

Home cooks can master this restaurant-quality dish without stress or complicated steps.

You’ll want to savor every single delectable bite of this comforting meal.

Storage Tips for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Separate chicken and pasta to maintain optimal texture.
  • Transfer to freezer-safe containers, removing excess air. Freeze for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
  • Place portions on microwave-safe plate. Cover with damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed. Add splash of milk or pasta water to restore creamy consistency.

FAQs

  • What makes the chicken bites flavorful?

The combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika creates a delicious seasoning blend that enhances the chicken’s taste and provides a perfect golden-brown exterior when cooked.

  • Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute the pasta with any shape you prefer like penne, fettuccine, or linguine. Just ensure you cook it al dente to maintain the right texture for the dish.

  • Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat gently and combine the components for a quick meal.

What Makes Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Great

  • Savor Flavor-Packed Delight: Garlic butter chicken bites with creamy Parmesan pasta deliver an explosion of rich, mouth-watering tastes that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
  • Craft a Gourmet Meal Quickly: This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality dinner that looks impressive but requires minimal cooking skills and preparation.
  • Create a Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Dish: Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this one-pan meal satisfies everyone from picky kids to sophisticated adults with its comforting and familiar flavors.
  • Enjoy Versatile Cooking Technique: The skillet method allows for easy cooking and quick cleanup, making this recipe a go-to option for busy home cooks who want delicious meals without complicated steps.

Ingredients Included in Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Main Protein:
  • Chicken Pieces: Tender cuts of chicken that create the protein base for this delicious dish.
Seasoning Blend:
  • Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder, Paprika: Classic spices that enhance the chicken's flavor and create a golden brown exterior.
Chicken Cooking Ingredients:
  • Butter: Provides rich flavor and helps brown the chicken perfectly.
  • Minced Garlic: Adds a deep, aromatic flavor to the chicken.
Pasta Ingredients:
  • Pasta: The foundation of the dish that serves as a creamy base.
Sauce Ingredients:
  • Butter: Helps create a smooth and rich sauce base.
  • Heavy Cream: Provides a luxurious and creamy texture to the sauce.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, salty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
  • Italian Seasoning: Brings a blend of herbs that complement the chicken and pasta.
Garnish:
  • Fresh Parsley: Adds a bright, fresh finish to the dish.
Optional Ingredient:
  • Pasta Water: Helps adjust the sauce consistency if needed.

How to Prepare Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Step 1: Prep and Season Chicken

Slice chicken into bite-sized pieces. Sprinkle seasonings over the chicken:
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Garlic powder
  • Paprika

Ensure each chicken piece is evenly coated with the spice blend.

Step 2: Brown Chicken to Perfection

Heat skillet over medium flame. Melt butter until it sizzles.

Add chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally. Look for golden-brown exterior and fully cooked center.

Toss in minced garlic during the final minute for extra flavor. Transfer chicken to a warm plate.

Step 3: Boil Pasta to Al Dente

Fill large pot with water. Add pinch of salt.

Bring to rolling boil. Drop pasta and cook following package guidance.

Before draining, scoop out half cup of pasta water. This starchy liquid will help create silky sauce later.

Step 4: Craft Luxurious Parmesan Sauce

Use same skillet from chicken. Melt butter.

Sauté minced garlic until aromatic. Pour in heavy cream.

Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Stir continuously until cheese melts completely.

If sauce seems thick, splash in reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Combine and Finish Dish

Fold cooked pasta into creamy sauce. Ensure noodles are completely coated.

Gently add chicken bites back into skillet. Allow everything to mingle for one minute.

Scatter fresh chopped parsley on top. Serve immediately while piping hot.

Insider Tips on Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

  • Use a blend of spices like salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to create a flavorful coating that enhances the chicken's taste and helps achieve a golden-brown exterior.
  • Keep reserved pasta water handy to thin out the creamy Parmesan sauce if it becomes too thick, ensuring a smooth and silky texture that clings beautifully to the pasta.
  • Sauté minced garlic briefly to release its aromatic oils, which adds depth and richness to both the chicken and sauce without burning.
  • Cook chicken pieces just until golden brown and no longer pink inside, flipping occasionally to ensure even cooking and maintain juicy, tender meat.

Flavor Variations of Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

  • Herb-Crusted Chicken Variation: Replace paprika with a blend of dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, and oregano for an aromatic Mediterranean-inspired version.
  • Gluten-Free Friendly: Swap regular pasta with gluten-free pasta made from rice, quinoa, or chickpea flour to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
  • Lighter Cream Alternative: Substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or half-and-half to reduce calories and create a tangier sauce while maintaining creamy texture.
  • Spicy Kick Variation: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the chicken seasoning and sauce for those who enjoy a fiery flavor profile.

Pairings That Enhance Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Select a light, buttery Chardonnay that complements the creamy Parmesan sauce and enhances the garlic-infused chicken’s rich flavors.

Serve alongside toasted garlic bread to amplify the dish’s garlicky essence and provide a crunchy texture contrast to the creamy pasta.

Prepare a classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and parmesan shavings to balance the dish’s richness and add fresh, zesty notes.

Choose a crisp, acidic Pinot Grigio that cuts through the creamy sauce and cleanses the palate between bites of the buttery chicken and pasta.

Print
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Velvety Garlic Butter Chicken With Parmesan Pasta Recipe

Velvety Garlic Butter Chicken With Parmesan Pasta Recipe


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4.7 from 11 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Garlic butter chicken with parmesan pasta delivers a luxurious Italian-inspired comfort meal that promises rich, creamy flavors in every delectable bite. Savory chicken nestled on silky pasta creates a perfect harmony of textures you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

Chicken:

  • 1 pound (454 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika

Pasta:

  • 8 ounces (226 grams) pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Dairy and Seasoning:

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken pieces by coating them with a blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for robust flavor infusion.
  2. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat, carefully introducing the seasoned chicken and cooking for 5-7 minutes, rotating periodically to achieve a golden-brown exterior and ensuring complete internal cooking.
  3. Incorporate minced garlic into the skillet, sautéing for an additional minute to release aromatic notes, then transfer the chicken to a separate plate and maintain warmth.
  4. Simultaneously, bring a generously salted water pot to a rolling boil and submerge the pasta, cooking until it reaches al dente texture according to package guidelines.
  5. Before draining, extract and reserve ½ cup of pasta water for potential sauce adjustment.
  6. Utilize the identical skillet from chicken preparation, melting fresh butter over medium heat and introducing minced garlic, allowing it to become fragrant for 1-2 minutes.
  7. Gradually integrate heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning, stirring consistently until the cheese dissolves and creates a silky, uniform sauce.
  8. Modulate sauce consistency by incrementally adding reserved pasta water if needed, then season with salt and pepper to enhance flavor profile.
  9. Thoroughly coat the cooked pasta with the creamy Parmesan sauce, ensuring complete coverage.
  10. Reintroduce the prepared chicken bites into the skillet, gently incorporating them with the pasta and sauce.
  11. Allow the combined dish to simmer for one minute, enabling flavor melding and temperature equalization.
  12. Finish by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately while warm.

Notes

  • Opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juicier, more tender bites that stay moist during cooking.
  • Pat chicken pieces completely dry before seasoning to ensure perfect golden-brown caramelization and crispy exterior.
  • Adjust spice levels by increasing garlic powder or adding red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged for a richer, more authentic flavor profile in the sauce.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 664 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 463 mg
  • Fat: 43 g
  • Saturated Fat: 24 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 46 g
  • Cholesterol: 165 mg
Mike Reynolds

Mike Reynolds

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Farm-to-table cuisine, Seasonal recipe development, Sustainable cooking techniques, Food photography

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College (A-B Tech)
Associate Degree in Culinary Arts

Mike studied culinary arts with a strong focus on farm-to-table principles and sustainable cooking. His training emphasized the importance of fresh, local ingredients and environmentally responsible practices in the kitchen.


Mike’s food journey began deep in the Blue Ridge Mountains, where weekends at farmers’ markets and home-cooked meals sparked a lifelong obsession with simple, seasonal eating.
After earning his Associate Degree in Culinary Arts from Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, he set out to bring farm-to-table cooking into everyday kitchens, without the fuss.
Mike’s philosophy is all about keeping it fresh, unfussy, and full of heart. When he’s not crafting new single-serving recipes, he’s hiking mountain trails, chatting with local farmers, or experimenting with wild ingredients in his backyard kitchen.

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