Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
A comforting dish that combines succulent chicken bites with creamy pasta, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter divided
- 8 ounces fettuccine or linguine can substitute with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by mincing the garlic and cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Cooking
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken.
- Cook the chicken until it’s golden brown and fully cooked, approximately 5–7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Sauté together for another minute until the garlic becomes fragrant.
- Stir in the heavy cream and the remaining tablespoon of butter. Gradually add the freshly grated parmesan cheese, mixing until you have a creamy sauce.
- Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Remember to save some pasta water before draining.
- Combine the drained pasta with the chicken and creamy sauce in the skillet, adding reserved pasta water as necessary to achieve your desired consistency.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to restore creaminess. For freezing, portion out servings and keep sealed in freezer bags for up to 2 months.