Oh, you’re in for a treat! Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta is one of those dishes that truly warms the heart and satisfies the soul. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a cozy Friday night after a long week at work. I wanted something delicious but quick, and this delightful combo was born. The aroma of garlic and butter wafting through my kitchen was so enticing that I thought about making it every single week thereafter. It’s comfort food at its best, and it pairs perfectly with a glass of wine or a cozy movie.
What makes this dish special is not just the delicious flavors but also how surprisingly easy it is to whip up. The crispy, succulent chicken coated in a buttery garlic sauce accompanied by creamy parmesan pasta creates a luxurious meal that feels gourmet but doesn’t require a culinary degree. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again!
What’s in Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta?
Chicken Breasts: I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe because they cook quickly and are super tender. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using thighs for extra juiciness!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is a game changer in this dish. It adds an aromatic punch that complements the butter beautifully. I’m always tempted to throw in a few extra cloves because I absolutely adore garlic!
Butter: Ah, the heart of the sauce! I typically use unsalted butter, so I can control the saltiness of the dish. The richness of the butter melds perfectly with the garlic and chicken.
Pasta: I like to use fettuccine or penne, but honestly, any pasta will do. Feel free to use whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.
Heavy Cream: This adds that luscious, creamy texture to the pasta. It’s decadent but oh-so-worth it. Just don’t forget to have a gym session planned after indulging!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated, of course! The cheese brings a salty, nutty flavor that elevates the dish to another level. The more, the merrier in my book!
Seasonings: A mix of salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning ties everything together, with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish adding a pop of color and freshness.
Is Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta Good for You?
While this dish is undoubtedly a creamy, rich delight, it’s important to consider health factors.
Chicken Breasts: A great source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth, and can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Pasta: Provides carbohydrates for energy, but portion control is key, especially if you’re watching your carb intake. Opting for whole wheat can add additional fiber!
Butter and Heavy Cream: These are delicious but should be enjoyed in moderation. They pack in calories and saturated fats, so balance with veggies or a side salad for a healthy serving of nutrients.
To sum it up, this dish is definitely a treat, so enjoy it as part of a balanced diet!
Ingredients List
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
– 4 cloves garlic (minced)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne works great)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper (to taste)
– Fresh parsley (for garnish)
*Serves 4*
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta?
1. Start by cooking the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about a cup of pasta water.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chicken bites, seasoned with salt and pepper. Sauté until they’re golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant but not browned.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir frequently.
5. Stir in the parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Mix until the cheese melts, creating a creamy sauce.
6. Add the cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet, tossing to coat everything in the sauce. If it seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
7. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley!
Delicious Twists to Explore!
– For a delicious twist, toss in some sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the creamy pasta for added flavor and nutrition!
– Swap out parmesan for another cheese, like pecorino or gruyère, if you want to experiment.
– If you love heat, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes as you sauté the garlic.
– For a fresher taste, squeeze some lemon juice over the finished dish right before serving.
I can’t wait for you to try this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta! It’s perfect for entertaining or simply enjoying a cozy night in. Don’t forget to let me know how yours turns out—I love to hear all about your cooking adventures! Enjoy!
