Oh, how I adore the divine combination of garlic, butter, and chicken! When I first whipped up this **Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta**, it quickly became a weeknight staple in my kitchen, earning rave reviews from family and friends alike. There’s something almost magical about those sizzling chicken bites coated in that luscious garlic butter sauce, paired perfectly with creamy pasta that is just begging for a fork to dive right in!
I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a chilly autumn evening, and I wanted something comforting yet delightful to celebrate a friend’s birthday. We had a cozy gathering, and as soon as the aroma filled my home, everyone gravitated to the kitchen—it’s safe to say this dish stole the show! With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, this dish is a perfect way to warm hearts and fill bellies.
What’s in Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta?
Let’s take a look at the star-studded ingredient list that brings this dish to life!
Chicken Breast: Tender and juicy, the chicken breast cuts easily into bite-sized pieces allowing for quick cooking and deliciously satisfying nibbles.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of this liquid gold not only adds flavor but also helps to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust on the chicken.
Garlic: You just can’t go wrong with garlic; it’s the heart of this dish! Freshly minced makes all the difference in flavor—prepare for some mouth-watering aromas!
Unsalted Butter: Because who doesn’t love butter? It enriches the sauce beautifully, adding that creamy texture and taste we crave.
Paprika: A sprinkle of this adds not just color but a subtle smokiness that elevates this dish to new heights.
Fettuccine or Preferred Pasta: For that creamy, dreamy base, I love good ol’ fettuccine, but any pasta shape you fancy will work!
Heavy Cream: The secret to that dreamy creamy sauce! It brings a luscious richness that clings beautifully to the pasta.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated, of course! It adds a sharp, nutty kick that takes everything up a notch.
Garlic Powder: A little extra garlic is always welcome in my kitchen! It complements the fresh garlic and deepens the flavor.
Chopped Parsley: Adds a touch of freshness and color at the end, making your plate look just as good as it tastes!
Is Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Good for You?
Now, while this mouthwatering dish certainly leans into the indulgent territory, it does offer some health benefits among the richness.
Chicken Breast: A lean protein powerhouse! It’s low in fat and high in protein, perfect for building and repairing muscles.
Heavy Cream: Alright, so it’s rich, but heavy cream contains fat that can help keep you satiated longer. Just be mindful of portion sizes.
Parmesan Cheese: Rich in protein and calcium, it can also support bone health. Just remember, moderation is key as it can be sodium-heavy.
On the flip side, this dish is not the lightest of meals. If you’re watching your calorie intake or looking for something vegan-friendly, you might want to save this for a special occasion or tweak it with lower-fat alternatives.
Ingredients
This recipe serves about 4 people, and here’s what you’ll need:
– 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
**For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:**
– 8 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Additional parsley, for garnish
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta?
Ready to dive into this deliciousness? Let’s get cooking!
1. **Cook the Pasta:** Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain it and set it aside.
2. **Prepare the Chicken:** In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with a good sprinkle of salt, pepper, and paprika—those flavors are going to rock this dish!
3. **Sauté Chicken:** Add your chicken to the hot skillet. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes until it’s beautifully browned and perfectly cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside, giving it a little rest!
4. **Make Garlic Butter Sauce:** Lower the heat to medium in the same skillet and toss in the butter and minced garlic. Sauté this heavenly mix for about a minute until it smells absolutely divine, being careful not to let your garlic burn. Trust me, burnt garlic is a no-go!
5. **Combine Ingredients:** Return the chicken to the skillet, giving it a good stir to coat it with that flavorful garlic butter sauce. Let it cook for another couple of minutes to bring everything together.
6. **Prepare the Creamy Sauce:** Meanwhile, in a separate saucepan over medium heat, mix together heavy cream, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is luxuriously smooth. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
7. **Combine Pasta and Sauce:** Now, that incredible creamy sauce is ready! Introduce the cooked pasta to the saucepan, tossing it to coat evenly. If the sauce seems a bit thick, don’t be shy—add a splash of pasta water to achieve your perfect sauce consistency.
8. **Serve:** Time to plate it up! Serve the creamy pasta, topped generously with those garlic butter chicken bites. Don’t forget a sprinkle of chopped parsley and, if you want to go all out, a little more Parmesan on top!
You’re Going to Love This!
This **Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta** will quickly become a favorite in your recipe repertoire! It’s not only easy to make but truly brings out the comforting flavors that we all crave at the end of the day. So, grab your apron, gather some friends or family, and have fun while making this scrumptious dish!
I can’t wait to hear your thoughts after you try it! Please share your experiences or any fun twists you added. Happy cooking, my friend!
