If there’s one dish that perfectly balances comfort, flavor, and speed—it’s this one. These Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta are a rich, cheesy, and ultra-satisfying meal that comes together in just about 30 minutes. Imagine tender, golden chicken bites tossed in a buttery garlic sauce, nestled in a bed of pasta smothered with a velvety Parmesan cream. Yes, please!

Whether you’re cooking for your family, impressing guests, or just treating yourself to something delicious on a weeknight, this recipe delivers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• ✅ Quick & easy: On the table in 30 minutes or less.
• ✅ Family-friendly: Mild, creamy, and loved by both kids and adults.
• ✅ One-pan magic: Minimal cleanup and straightforward steps.
• ✅ Comfort food fix: Creamy, cheesy pasta with flavorful garlic butter chicken? Instant classic.
• ✅ Customizable: Easily adapt the pasta, protein, or garnish to suit your tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken and Pasta:

• 1 lb chicken breast, cubed into bite-sized pieces
• 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini work best)
• 4 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil, for garnish

Kitchen Equipment

• Large pot (for boiling pasta)
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander for draining pasta
• Wooden spoon or spatula

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook 8 oz of pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water just in case the sauce needs thinning.

2. Cook the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 4 tablespoons of butter and let it melt.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Add the cubed chicken breast to the skillet. Cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set the chicken aside if needed.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet (no need to clean it), pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring to a low simmer. Stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and whisk gently until melted and smooth.

Taste and season the sauce with more salt and pepper, if desired. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.

4. Combine & Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet with the sauce, then stir in the cooked pasta until everything is well coated.

Garnish with fresh basil (or parsley if preferred) and serve hot.

Tips for Success

• Cube chicken evenly for uniform cooking.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the creamiest texture and boldest flavor.
• Add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes if you want a little heat.
• Reserve pasta water to thin out the sauce without sacrificing creaminess.
• Don’t overcook the garlic! Just a quick sauté until fragrant to avoid bitterness.

Recipe Variations & Swaps

• Make it spicy: Stir in a teaspoon of chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
• Try other proteins: Swap chicken for shrimp, sausage, or even tofu.
• Go veggie: Add spinach, peas, or mushrooms to the skillet with the sauce.
• Use different pasta: Fettuccine, rigatoni, or farfalle are all great options.
• Lighten it up: Substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream (sauce may be thinner).

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

• Store: Cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Reheat: Gently warm in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to life.
• Freeze: You can freeze leftovers, but the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly upon thawing. For best results, consume fresh or within a few days.

What to Serve With It

This dish is rich and satisfying on its own, but pairs beautifully with:

• A fresh green salad with vinaigrette
• Garlic bread or dinner rolls
• Roasted or steamed vegetables (broccoli, asparagus, or green beans)
• A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken?
A: Yes! Just skip the chicken cooking step and stir it into the sauce to warm through.

Q: Can I use milk instead of cream?
A: You can, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. Add a bit of cream cheese or more Parmesan to thicken it if needed.

Q: Is there a dairy-free version?
A: Try using a dairy-free butter alternative and swap in unsweetened oat or almond milk with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Creamy, Cheesy Perfection in Every Bite

This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe hits all the right notes—savory, indulgent, and completely comforting. Whether you’re making it for your family, a date night, or just craving a restaurant-quality pasta dish at home, it’s a guaranteed hit.

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Bon appétit! 🍝✨