Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Parmesan Pasta Dish

December 8, 2025December 6, 2025 by Chef Miles

Ingredients

To make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Parmesan Pasta, you need a few simple ingredients. Here’s the list to get started:

– Chicken breast

– Butter

– Garlic

– Italian seasoning

– Pasta

– Parmesan cheese

– Fresh parsley

– Lemon zest (optional)

Each ingredient plays a big role in this dish. The chicken breast provides protein, while butter adds richness. Garlic gives a strong flavor that makes everything taste better. Italian seasoning brings warmth and depth. Pasta serves as a hearty base, and Parmesan cheese adds a salty finish. Fresh parsley brightens up the dish. If you want a zing, lemon zest is a great choice!

With these ingredients ready, you can create a delicious meal that everyone will love.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Pasta

– First, boil a large pot of salted water.

– Add 8 ounces of your chosen pasta. Cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.

– When done, save about ½ cup of the pasta water. Then, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Preparing the Garlic Butter

– In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.

– Once it melts and bubbles, add 4 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 1 minute, stirring constantly.

– Be careful not to burn the garlic; you want it fragrant and golden.

Cooking the Chicken

– Increase the heat to medium-high. Add 1 pound of bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet.

– Season the chicken with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper.

– Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring often, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked.

Combining Pasta and Chicken

– After cooking the chicken, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet.

– Pour in the reserved pasta water and the drained pasta. Toss everything together well.

– This creates a rich, buttery sauce that coats the pasta and chicken nicely.

Finishing with Parmesan

– Sprinkle in ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the pasta is well coated.

– If you like, add the zest of 1 lemon for a burst of freshness.

Garnishing and Serving

– Remove the skillet from the heat. Mix in ¼ cup of chopped fresh parsley.

– Serve the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites in warm pasta bowls.

– For a nice touch, add more Parmesan and parsley on top, and serve with a lemon wedge on the side.

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips

– Ensuring chicken is juicy: Use fresh chicken breast for the best flavor. Cut it into small, even pieces. This helps the chicken cook evenly. Season it well with salt and pepper. Cook it until golden brown, but do not overcook. Juicy chicken is key to this dish.

– Pasta cooking hacks: Always salt your water before boiling. This adds flavor to your pasta. Cook the pasta until it’s al dente. This means it should still have a slight bite. Remember to reserve some pasta water before draining. This water helps create a creamy sauce.

Serving Suggestions

– Ideal pairings: This dish pairs well with a light salad or garlic bread. A fresh greens salad adds crunch and balance. Garlic bread complements the rich flavors of the garlic butter.

– Enhancing flavors: For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can also brighten the dish. A dash of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

– Overcooking garlic: Garlic cooks fast. Sauté it until it’s fragrant, about one minute. If it turns brown, it will taste bitter. Watch it closely to get the best flavor.

– Skipping pasta water: Never skip reserving pasta water. This starchy water helps bind the sauce. Adding it helps create a silky texture. It’s a simple trick that makes a big difference.

Variations

Protein Alternatives

You can easily switch chicken for shrimp or tofu. Shrimp cooks fast and adds a nice touch. Just sauté it in the garlic butter until pink. For tofu, use firm tofu. Cube it, and sauté it until golden brown. Both options will soak up that great garlic flavor!

Different Pasta Choices

Many pasta types work well in this dish. You could use spaghetti for a classic feel. Fettuccine gives a nice, thick bite. Penne adds a fun twist with its tube shape. Choose whatever you love most. Just remember to cook it al dente for the best texture.

Additional Flavor Boosts

Want to make it more exciting? Add some veggies! Broccoli or spinach brings color and nutrients. Toss them in with the chicken for a healthy boost. You can also add spices like red pepper flakes for heat. A dash of lemon juice can brighten the dish too!

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container. Place the chicken and pasta together. Refrigerate them within two hours of cooking. This helps to avoid any bacterial growth. Consume the leftovers within three days for the best flavor and quality.

Reheating Tips

When reheating, I recommend using a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep the dish moist. Stir often to prevent sticking. You can also use a microwave, but cover the dish to trap steam. Heat in short bursts, stirring between, to keep the chicken tender and the pasta creamy.

Freezing Guidelines

To freeze, place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. This method helps retain the flavors and textures of the dish. Enjoy your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites at a later time with ease!

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just thaw it first. This way, it cooks evenly. Cut it into bite-sized pieces for best results. If it’s still a bit frozen, increase cooking time by a few minutes.

What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

If you lack Parmesan, use Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano. Both add great flavor. You can also use nutritional yeast for a vegan option. It gives a cheesy taste without the dairy.

How can I make this recipe spicy?

To add spice, include red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. Add them when cooking the garlic for a nice kick. You can also use spicy Italian sausage instead of chicken for more heat.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep this dish ahead. Cook the chicken and pasta, then store them separately. Reheat before serving. This keeps the pasta from getting mushy.

What is the best way to reheat garlic butter chicken pasta?

Reheat in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth. This helps to keep it moist. Stir until warmed through. Avoid the microwave to keep the chicken juicy.

This blog post covered a tasty chicken pasta recipe with garlic butter sauce. You learned about the key ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and helpful tips. We also explored variations to keep things fresh and exciting.

In closing, this dish is simple and fun to make. With each step, you can create a meal that delights. Enjoy cooking, and don’t be afraid to try new flavor