If you’re craving a cozy, flavor-packed dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes, look no further than Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta. This one-pan meal brings together golden-seared chicken bites coated in garlic butter and served over a rich, creamy parmesan pasta that tastes like it came straight from a restaurant.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish checks every box:
✅ Comforting and satisfying
✅ Quick and easy to make
✅ Family-friendly
✅ One pan, minimal cleanup
✅ Loaded with garlic, cheese, and buttery goodness
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving creamy pasta with a protein punch, this recipe delivers every time.
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized cubes)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/4 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for topping)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta in salted water according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Bites
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken bites, season with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Add minced garlic in the last minute and stir until fragrant. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta to the creamy sauce and toss to coat evenly. Return the garlic butter chicken bites to the pan and mix until everything is well combined and heated through.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle extra Parmesan and freshly chopped parsley on top. Serve hot and enjoy the perfect bite of tender chicken and creamy pasta in every forkful.
Tips for Success
- Cut chicken evenly so all pieces cook at the same rate.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor.
- Reserve pasta water – it helps make the sauce silky and smooth.
- Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to sneak in extra veggies.
Perfect Pairings
This dish pairs beautifully with:
- Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
- A crisp Caesar salad or arugula side salad
- A light glass of white wine like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a dinner that feels indulgent but is incredibly easy to make. It combines rich flavors, satisfying textures, and comforting ingredients into a weeknight meal that tastes like a weekend treat. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation.