These Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are juicy, packed with flavor, and get a nice golden crust. Pair them with creamy Parmesan pasta for a meal that makes your taste buds dance!
Honestly, what’s better than buttery garlic chicken? It’s a hit every time at my dinner table! Plus, the creamy pasta is so comforting, I could eat it every night. 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juicy flavor, but breasts work too! If you’re vegetarian, try substituting with firm tofu or tempeh, cutting them into bite-sized pieces for similar cooking times.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives you control over the salt levels. If you need a dairy-free option, use vegan butter or olive oil instead, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for maximum flavor! In a pinch, you can use garlic powder, but I recommend using about 1/8 teaspoon for each clove.
Heavy cream: This is what creates the creamy texture. You can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative to lighten it up if desired.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best! For a dairy-free version, use a vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do You Get Juicy and Flavorful Chicken Bites?
Cooking chicken bites to perfection requires a few simple techniques. The key is to ensure they are golden brown on the outside and juicy on the inside. Here’s how:
- Pat the chicken dry to help it brown better. This also reduces splatter when cooking.
- Cook in batches if your skillet is small; overcrowding leads to steaming instead of searing.
- Make sure the pan and oil are hot before adding the chicken. This helps lock in moisture.
Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Let it rest for a couple of minutes after cooking to keep it juicy!
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:
- 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your favorite kind)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (50g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup (60ml) pasta cooking water, reserved
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Time Needed
This delicious dish will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. From boiling the pasta to sautéing the chicken and mixing everything together, it’s quick yet satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Don’t forget to reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. Set the drained pasta aside while you work on the chicken.
2. Make the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:
Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels, then season them with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and oregano. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken bites. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm.
3. Make Garlic Butter Sauce for Chicken:
Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic into the same skillet where you cooked the chicken. Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant (be careful not to burn it!). Then, return the cooked chicken bites to the skillet and toss to coat them in the garlic butter sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. Make Creamy Parmesan Pasta Sauce:
In a separate saucepan or skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes. Then pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Toss the cooked pasta into the creamy Parmesan sauce, mixing until the pasta is well coated and luxurious.
6. Plate and Serve:
To serve, place a generous portion of the creamy Parmesan pasta on each plate, then top it with the garlic butter chicken bites. Feel free to garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil to add a touch of color and freshness!
Enjoy your flavorful Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta! This meal is not just tasty but also a perfect comfort dish for any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and flavor-packed, making them a fantastic choice for this recipe. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless to match the cooking time.
How Do I Thicken the Pasta Sauce?
If your sauce is too thin, gradually add more grated Parmesan cheese, whisking until combined. Alternatively, you can simmer the sauce a bit longer to reduce it and thicken naturally. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Yes! For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a cashew cream. Use a dairy-free cheese alternative for the Parmesan, and check the butter for a plant-based option.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
