Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of Golden Garlic Chicken Bites over Creamy Parmesan Pasta! This mouthwatering dish features tender, golden-brown chicken bites sautéed in garlic butter and served over a bed of creamy Parmesan pasta. It’s a satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, delivering comfort and flavor in every bite.
Why We Love This Recipe
- Incredible Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan creates a rich and savory sauce that perfectly complements the tender chicken bites. Each bite is bursting with flavor, making it hard to resist!
- Quick and Easy Preparation: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Creamy Comfort: The creamy Parmesan sauce adds a comforting, luxurious texture to the pasta, making it the perfect dish for cozy nights in or family gatherings.
- Versatile and Adaptable: You can easily customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes, to enhance both the flavor and nutrition.
- Kid-Friendly: The mild flavors and fun presentation of the chicken bites over pasta make this dish appealing to both kids and adults, making it a hit at the dinner table.
- Beautiful Presentation: With its vibrant colors and elegant appearance, this dish looks as good as it tastes. It’s perfect for impressing guests or serving at special occasions.
- Leftover Friendly: This dish holds up well in the refrigerator, making it great for meal prep or enjoying leftovers for lunch the next day.
Overall, Golden Garlic Chicken Bites over Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a delightful and satisfying meal that combines ease of preparation with delicious flavors, making it a beloved addition to any dinner rotation!
Ingredients
To make Golden Garlic Chicken Bites over Creamy Parmesan Pasta, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces: The main protein for the dish.
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds richness and flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the chicken with aromatic flavor.
- 1/2 tsp paprika: Adds a hint of smokiness and color.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning.
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a rich, cheesy flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a creamy sauce for the pasta.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds depth of flavor to the sauce.
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine): The base of the dish.
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: For garnish and added freshness.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the chicken.
How to Make this Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water for later if needed.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Sauté the Chicken: Add the chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Liquid Ingredients: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in Cheese: Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until melted and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Combine Chicken and Pasta: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, stirring to coat in the creamy sauce. Toss the cooked pasta in as well, mixing everything until well combined.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve the pasta in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Success Tips
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook the chicken until just golden and cooked through to keep it tender and juicy.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and offers more flavor than pre-grated varieties.
- Customize the Sauce: Feel free to add more garlic or herbs like thyme or basil for extra flavor.
Storage
To keep your Golden Garlic Chicken Bites over Creamy Parmesan Pasta fresh:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or broth to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
Notes
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this dish with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Nutrition
Each serving (based on 4 servings) contains approximately:
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 28g
(Nutrition values may vary based on specific ingredient choices and portion sizes.)
FAQs
Can I Use Frozen Chicken?
Yes! If using frozen chicken, ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even results.
Can I Substitute the Cream?
You can use half-and-half or milk for a lighter sauce, but the dish will be less rich.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.
How Do I Know When the Chicken Is Done?
The chicken should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Conclusion
Golden Garlic Chicken Bites over Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors and satisfying textures. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite for family dinners and gatherings. So gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a comforting meal that everyone will love! ✨