Introduction
Welcome to a delightful culinary journey featuring Garlic Butter Chicken Bites paired with rich and creamy Parmesan pasta! This dish is perfect for any weeknight, offering a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. With tender pieces of chicken enveloped in silky garlic butter and a luscious Parmesan sauce, this meal promises comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that’s bound to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 8 ounces pasta (your choice)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. The rich aroma of melted butter will fill your kitchen!
- Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Season them generously with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked.
- Introduce minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the garlic to become fragrant and infuse the chicken with its savory essence.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside, letting it rest while you prepare the pasta.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Enjoy the enticing smell as it melts and combines with the remnants of delicious garlic and chicken.
- While the butter melts, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your choice of pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain.
- After the butter has melted in the skillet, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. The cream will start to thicken and bubble slightly.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the sauce turns smooth and creamy with a vibrant flavor.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat every strand in that luxurious sauce.
- Finally, return the succulent chicken bites to the skillet, stirring gently to combine everything beautifully.
- Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness before serving!
Notes or Tips
- If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the chicken.
- Feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes; penne or fettuccine works beautifully with this dish.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute half and half for heavy cream, though it may alter the creaminess slightly.
Cooking Techniques
To achieve perfectly golden chicken bites, ensure your skillet is heated adequately before adding the meat. This helps to sear the chicken quickly, locking in moisture and flavor. When making the sauce, stirring in the cheese at a low simmer helps prevent it from clumping, ensuring a velvety finish that clings enticingly to both the chicken and pasta.
FAQ
- Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe? Absolutely! Just skip the first few steps and add your cooked chicken directly to the cream sauce to warm it through.
- What can I serve with this dish? A simple salad or steamed vegetables make excellent side options, adding freshness to your meal.
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and joy to the dinner table. With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s the perfect choice for a cozy weeknight meal. Your loved ones will appreciate the hearty flavors and creamy goodness, making this dish a memorable addition to your family recipes. Enjoy every delicious bite!