Introduction
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a delicious and comforting dish that will satisfy your taste buds and leave you craving more. This recipe combines tender chicken bites cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, served over a bed of creamy Parmesan pasta. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is simple to prepare yet impressive enough to wow your guests.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Chicken breast: 1 pound, cut into bite-sized pieces
– Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
– Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
– Butter: 4 tablespoons
– Salt: to taste
– Black pepper: to taste
– Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon
– Pasta (fettuccine or your choice): 8 ounces
– Heavy cream: 1 cup
– Parmesan cheese: ½ cup, grated
– Fresh parsley: for garnish (optional)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Chicken Bites
Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season them generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for flavor.
Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, add 2 more tablespoons of butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken bites to the skillet with the garlic butter. Toss the chicken in the sauce to coat evenly. Cook for an additional minute, then remove from heat.
Prepare the Pasta
Meanwhile, cook your choice of pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
In a separate saucepan, combine the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper over medium-low heat. Stir continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta to the creamy Parmesan sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Mix well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
Serve the Dish
Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta and top it with the garlic butter chicken bites. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
Chicken Substitutes
You can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier and more flavorful option.
Pasta Variations
Feel free to use any pasta shape you like such as fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti.
Healthier Options
For a lighter alternative, use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta, and reduce the amount of butter in the garlic sauce.
Storage Tips
Store leftover chicken bites and pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Flavor Boosters
Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for additional flavor and nutrients in the creamy pasta.
Cook techniques
Searing Chicken
Searing the chicken bites in a hot skillet creates a golden-brown crust, enhancing the flavor and texture. Ensure the pan is hot enough before adding the chicken.
Making Garlic Butter
To make garlic butter, melt unsalted butter in a skillet and add minced garlic, allowing it to sauté until fragrant. This forms the base for rich flavoring in the chicken.
Deglazing the Pan
After cooking the chicken, deglaze the pan with a splash of chicken broth or white wine. This allows you to incorporate the browned bits, resulting in a more flavorful sauce.
Creating Creamy Sauce
For the creamy Parmesan sauce, combine heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings in the skillet, stirring until well blended. Heating gently prevents the sauce from curdling.
Cooking Pasta
Cook the pasta separately in salted boiling water until al dente. This ensures proper texture and flavor, allowing it to absorb the creamy sauce effectively.
FAQ
Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?
Yes, chicken breast can be used as an alternative, but it may require less cooking time to avoid drying out.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Fettuccine or penne pasta are great choices for this dish, as they hold the creamy sauce well.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components in advance and combine them just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of cream to restore creaminess.
Can I add vegetables to the recipe?
Absolutely! Vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers can be added for extra nutrition and flavor. Sauté them along with the garlic before adding the chicken.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a delightfully savory dish that brings together tender chicken, rich garlic butter, and a luxurious pasta coated in creamy parmesan sauce. This meal not only satisfies hunger but also elevates any dinner table with its appealing flavors and textures. It’s a perfect choice for family dinners or special occasions, quickly becoming a favorite.
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