Tender garlic butter chicken bites paired with creamy Parmesan pasta for a quick, comforting meal full of rich flavors.
Author:Linda
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:15-20 minutes
Total Time:25-30 minutes
Yield:3-4 servings
Category:Main Course
Method:Sautéing
Cuisine:American
Diet:Low Salt
Ingredients
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
8 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne recommended)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken bites, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
In the same skillet, add remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce thickens slightly.
Add cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss to coat pasta and chicken evenly with the creamy sauce.
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.
Notes
Swap chicken for shrimp or mushrooms for a vegetarian or seafood variation.
Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and flavor.
Use different pasta shapes like rigatoni or farfalle as preferred.
Add red pepper flakes to garlic butter for a spicy kick.
Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge up to 3 days. Reheat gently on stove with added cream or milk if sauce thickens.
Fresh chicken is best; thaw frozen chicken completely before cooking.