Go Back

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe delivers a restaurant-quality meal in just 25 minutes. Featuring perfectly seasoned chicken bites seared in aromatic garlic butter paired with tender pasta in a rich Parmesan cream sauce, this dish offers the perfect balance of protein, carbohydrates, and indulgent flavors that will satisfy the whole family.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Colander for draining pasta
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • - Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cheese grater (if using fresh Parmesan)
  • Pasta serving bowls

Ingredients
  

  • For the Chicken Bites:
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
  • 12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • Salt and white pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
  • Additional Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
  • Season the Chicken: Cut chicken into uniform 1-inch cubes. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Toss to coat evenly.
  • Cook the Chicken Bites: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken cubes in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove chicken and set aside.
  • Make Garlic Butter: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add 3 tablespoons butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Return chicken to the pan and toss to coat with garlic butter. Remove and keep warm.
  • Create the Cream Sauce: In the same skillet, add remaining 4 tablespoons butter and 3 cloves minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, whisking to combine.
  • Add Cheese: Reduce heat to low. Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Season with salt, white pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  • Combine Everything: Add the drained pasta to the cream sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until desired consistency is reached.
  • Final Assembly: Add the garlic butter chicken bites back to the pasta and gently fold together. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
  • Serve: Transfer to serving bowls and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and parsley. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

Use room temperature heavy cream to prevent curdling when added to the hot pan
Don't overcook the chicken to maintain tenderness
Pasta water helps bind the sauce and adjust consistency
Fresh Parmesan cheese melts better than pre-grated varieties
The dish is best served immediately while the sauce is creamy