The aroma of garlic sizzling in butter is a powerful thing. It beckons you into the kitchen like a siren’s call, promising deliciousness that’s hard to resist. Now imagine those heavenly scents mingling with perfectly cooked pasta and juicy chicken bites. Yes, my friends, that’s the magic of Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Pasta.

a cozy family dinner where everyone digs in, and the plate is wiped clean faster than you can say “seconds.” This dish is not just about eating; it’s about creating memories around the table while savoring every flavorful bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Pasta is quick and easy to whip up on busy weeknights.
- The savory flavors of garlic and butter create an irresistible sauce that coats every bite.
- It’s visually appealing with its glossy finish and colorful garnishes.
- Perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying as a comforting meal at home.
I remember the first time I made this dish; my partner couldn’t stop raving about it! We both agreed it had quickly become our go-to recipe for any occasion.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Opt for 3-4 pieces based on your crowd size; they cook quickly and absorb flavors well.
- Fresh Garlic: Use 4-6 cloves for an intense garlicky flavor; fresh is always best!
- Pasta of Your Choice: Spaghetti or fettuccine works great; whatever you have will do!
- Unsalted Butter: Stick to unsalted to better control the seasoning of your dish.
- Olive Oil: A splash helps prevent the butter from burning while adding richness.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for that creamy texture and nutty flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped, for garnish; it adds a pop of color and freshness.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing all the flavors present in the dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by dicing your chicken into bite-sized pieces; this ensures even cooking. Mince the garlic finely so it infuses into every bite.
Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining; it’s liquid gold for later!
Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and half of your butter. Once melted, add diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through.
Add Garlic Magic: When your chicken is nearly done cooking (about 5 minutes), toss in minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant but be careful not to burn it – we want aromatic goodness here!
Create the Sauce: Once the chicken is fully cooked, reduce heat to low and add remaining butter along with drained pasta directly into the skillet. Toss everything together gently while adding reserved pasta water as needed until well coated.
Finish with Flavor: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over each serving along with chopped parsley for brightness. Give it one last gentle toss before serving warm.
Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Pasta! It’s simple yet packed with flavor that will leave everyone asking for more!
You Must Know
- For the best flavor, allow the chicken to marinate in garlic butter for at least 30 minutes.
- This enhances juiciness and infuses every bite with deliciousness.
- Remember, a pinch of salt can elevate your dish’s overall taste dramatically.
- Enjoy those savory aromas wafting through your kitchen!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken bites in garlic butter for flavor and texture. While they cook, boil the pasta until al dente. Combine everything in a pan to create a glorious harmony of flavors.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition and vibrant color. You can also experiment with different herbs such as thyme or basil to create unique flavor profiles that suit your palate.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Make sure the chicken is dry before cooking; this ensures a nice sear.
- Use fresh garlic for maximum flavor impact—it’s worth it!
- Don’t rush; let everything simmer together for at least five minutes before serving.
I remember the first time I made Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Pasta for my friends. Their ecstatic faces were worth every minute spent in the kitchen, especially when they asked for seconds.
FAQ
What type of pasta works best for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Pasta?
Any pasta works well, but I recommend using penne or farfalle for better sauce adherence and texture.
Can I use frozen chicken pieces instead of fresh?
Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed and pat them dry before cooking to achieve that perfect golden brown sear.
How can I make this recipe spicy?
Add red pepper flakes during cooking or serve with a spicy dipping sauce on the side to kick up the heat!
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Pasta
Indulge in this creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Pasta, where tender chicken meets rich garlic butter sauce, creating a comforting dish perfect for family dinners or quick meals.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs), diced
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and mince the garlic.
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and half of the butter. Once melted, add the diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Add minced garlic when the chicken is nearly done cooking. Sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Reduce heat to low, add remaining butter and drained pasta to the skillet. Toss gently while adding reserved pasta water as needed until well coated.
- Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with chopped parsley before serving warm.
Notes
- For added nutrition, include vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes.
- Enhance flavor by experimenting with herbs such as thyme or basil.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 100mg