Description
This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe features tender chicken bites sautéed in garlic butter and tossed in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce with pasta. Ready in just 30 minutes, this comforting dish combines the savory flavors of garlic, butter, and Parmesan for a delicious weeknight meal garnished with fresh basil.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Sauce
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 4 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
Garnish
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the chicken and garlic: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the cubed chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, approximately 6-8 minutes.
- Make the creamy Parmesan sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy chicken sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
- Serve and garnish: Divide the creamy Parmesan pasta and garlic butter chicken bites onto plates. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately for best flavor.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and melting consistency.
- Feel free to substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, though the sauce may be less rich.
- Cook the chicken pieces evenly by cutting them to uniform size.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes if you want a bit of heat.
- This dish pairs well with a light green salad or steamed vegetables.
