Description
This recipe combines tender, flavorful garlic butter chicken bites with a rich and creamy Parmesan pasta for a satisfying and delicious meal. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The chicken bites are infused with savory garlic and fragrant herbs, while the pasta is coated in a velvety Parmesan sauce that will leave you wanting more. The dish is simple to prepare and satisfying to eat. Ingredients
For the Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 oz (225 g) fettuccine or pasta of choice
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Preparation
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. The amount of salt you add can vary based on personal preference, but a good starting point is about 1-2 tablespoons of salt per gallon of water. Adding salt to the water not only seasons the pasta itself but also helps it cook evenly. Once the water is boiling vigorously, add the fettuccine or your pasta of choice. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente – firm to the bite. Before draining the pasta, reserve 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water. This water is liquid gold; its starchiness will help emulsify the sauce, making it creamier and helping it cling to the pasta.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, prepare the chicken. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the bite-sized chicken pieces with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Ensure that the chicken is evenly coated with the spices for maximum flavor. Paprika adds a subtle smokiness and color, while Italian seasoning provides a blend of aromatic herbs like oregano, basil, and rosemary. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Olive oil adds a fruity note and prevents the butter from burning. Add the butter and let it melt completely, creating a rich base for cooking the chicken. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for 4–6 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chicken should be golden brown and fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Ensure not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the temperature and cause the chicken to steam instead of brown. Add the minced garlic to the skillet during the last minute of cooking and sauté for an additional minute. This allows the garlic to release its fragrant oils without burning. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside, keeping it warm.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Using the same skillet allows the sauce to pick up the flavorful remnants from the chicken, adding depth to the dish. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds to a minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Pour in the heavy cream and stir, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Heavy cream provides the richness and body for the sauce. Allow it to simmer gently to thicken slightly, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until it is melted and smooth. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is essential for the best flavor and texture. Add it in small increments to ensure it melts evenly and doesn’t clump. Season with nutmeg (if using), salt, and pepper. Nutmeg adds a warm, subtle spice that complements the Parmesan cheese beautifully. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If the sauce becomes too thick, mix in the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, to adjust the consistency. The pasta water will help emulsify the sauce and create a silky-smooth texture.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until well coated with the creamy Parmesan sauce. Ensure that every strand of pasta is glistening with the sauce. The sauce should be thick enough to cling to the pasta without being too heavy. Top with the garlic butter chicken bites, arranging them attractively over the pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish. Serve immediately and enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe is a winner for so many reasons! Firstly, it’s incredibly flavorful. The garlic butter chicken bites are bursting with savory goodness, perfectly complemented by the creamy, cheesy Parmesan pasta. It’s a comforting yet sophisticated dish that’s sure to impress. Secondly, it’s versatile. You can easily customize the pasta type or add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the sauce. It’s also relatively quick to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The dish balances richness with freshness, thanks to the parsley garnish and the slight tang of Parmesan. The combination of tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta makes every bite a delight.
COOKING Rating
Easy to Medium.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this dish immediately while it’s hot and the sauce is creamy. It pairs well with a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. For a more indulgent meal, serve with crusty bread for dipping in the leftover sauce. A crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, would complement the flavors of the dish beautifully. For a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon.
Tips:
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the pasta until it’s al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when combined with the sauce.
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and has a superior flavor compared to pre-shredded cheese.
- Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add more pasta water to thin it out. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few minutes to reduce.
- Don’t Burn the Garlic: Keep a close eye on the garlic while sautéing to prevent it from burning, which can make the dish bitter.
- Marinate the Chicken: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken in the paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for added nutrients and flavor. Sauté them with the garlic before adding the cream.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
20 minutes
Total Time:
35 minutes
Nutritional Information:
Note: The following values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: 650-750 per serving
- Protein: 40-45 grams
- Sodium: 800-1000 mg
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Its combination of tender, flavorful chicken and creamy, cheesy pasta is sure to please everyone at the table. With a few simple steps and fresh ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home. Enjoy the cooking process and the delightful flavors of this recipe!
Questions and Answers
Q1: Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While fettuccine is a classic choice for creamy sauces, you can easily substitute it with other types of pasta like spaghetti, linguine, penne, or even gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to cook the pasta according to the package instructions for the best results.
Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken bites and the sauce separately ahead of time. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator and reheat them when you’re ready to serve. However, it’s best to cook the pasta just before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Q3: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
A: Yes, you definitely can! Adding vegetables can enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the dish. Some great options include spinach, mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, peas, or roasted bell peppers. Sauté them with the garlic before adding the cream for the best results.
Q4: How can I make this dish lighter?
A: To make this dish lighter, you can use light cream or half-and-half instead of heavy cream. You can also reduce the amount of butter and Parmesan cheese used. Additionally, adding more vegetables can help increase the nutritional value while reducing the overall calorie count. Using whole wheat pasta is another great way to make the dish healthier.
Q5: What can I do if my sauce is too thick or too thin?
A: If your sauce is too thick, gradually add more of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency. If your sauce is too thin, simmer it over low heat for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow it to reduce and thicken up. You can also add a small amount of cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons cold water) to help thicken the sauce, but be sure to stir it in gradually to avoid clumping.