If there’s one dinner I could happily eat on repeat, it’s this luscious, no-fuss twist on comfort food: Plate the pasta and top with garlic butter chicken bites. Imagine golden, juicy chicken sizzling away in a skillet with rich garlic butter, then tumbled over a glossy bed of creamy parmesan pasta. Every forkful is pure heaven — buttery, cheesy, and packed with garlicky goodness. It’s the kind of dish that makes you look forward to dinner all day, and I promise, it’s much easier than you think!

Plate the pasta and top with garlic butter chicken bites Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe comes together with a handful of kitchen staples, each one playing a starring role in creating bold flavors and incredible texture. You don’t need anything complicated — just quality ingredients and a touch of care make Plate the pasta and top with garlic butter chicken bites irresistible.

Chicken breasts or thighs: Tender, juicy chicken forms the heart of those savory bites — use thighs for extra flavor or breasts for leaner protein.
Butter: This helps brown the chicken and infuses every bite with classic richness — don’t skimp!
Fresh garlic: Three cloves (minced!) bring aromatic, punchy depth that just can’t be matched by powders.
Paprika: Adds color and a subtle smoky note to the chicken.
Salt and black pepper: Season your chicken confidently for the best savor in every forkful.
Chili flakes (optional): A hint of heat can elevate your garlic butter chicken bites to new heights.
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): A sprinkle at the end offers freshness and beautiful color contrast.
Pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your fave): Your chosen noodle delivers the perfect base for soaking up all that creamy parmesan sauce.
Olive oil: Used to start the sauce with extra flavor and silkiness.
Heavy cream: This is where the dreamy, velvety texture comes from in your parmesan sauce.
Parmesan cheese: The sharper and more flavorful, the better — this brings savory punch to the sauce.
Garlic powder: Adds another layer of garlicky goodness to the creamy sauce.
Nutmeg (optional): Just a pinch provides a subtle warmth that rounds out the sauce.

How to Make Plate the pasta and top with garlic butter chicken bites

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Get things rolling by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta of choice and cook until just al dente, following the package instructions. Scoop out about half a cup of pasta water before draining — this starchy liquid is secret sauce magic for adjusting your creamy parmesan later.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, toss your chicken pieces with paprika, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of chili flakes if you’re craving some heat. Massaging the spices into the chicken gives it bold character right from the start, and ensures you get flavor in every juicy bite.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, melt one tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add your seasoned chicken in an even layer and let it sear undisturbed for a moment to get those irresistible golden edges. Stir and cook for about 5-7 minutes total, until the chicken is cooked through and browned all over.

Step 4: Add Garlic Butter Magic

Drop another tablespoon of butter and all your minced garlic into the skillet with the hot chicken. Stir constantly so the butter foams and the garlic turns fragrant (but not browned). This simple step fills your kitchen with the kind of aroma that draws everyone to the table instantly. Once the chicken is coated in glossy garlic butter, transfer it to a plate and cover to keep warm.

Step 5: Start the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Without washing out the skillet (all those savory bits are flavor gold!), pour in a tablespoon of olive oil and the remaining tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add your heavy cream right in, alongside garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg if you like a gentle, nutty undertone. Slowly bring to a gentle simmer, letting the flavors meld together.

Step 6: Stir in the Parmesan Cheese

Lower the heat, then scatter in your grated parmesan. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and your sauce looks creamy and glossy. If it’s feeling too thick, add reserved pasta water a splash at a time until you reach silky perfection. This sauce clings to the noodles, coating them in cheesy, creamy goodness.

Step 7: Toss Pasta in the Sauce

Tip your drained pasta right into the skillet with the sauce. Toss and turn until every strand is coated from end to end. This is where the magic really happens because the noodles soak up all that luscious flavor for the perfect foundation when you plate the pasta and top with garlic butter chicken bites.

Step 8: Plate the Pasta and Top with Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Time for the grand finale! Twirl generous heaps of creamy parmesan pasta onto plates, then pile the garlic butter chicken bites over the top. Don’t forget to drizzle any buttery skillet juices over your dish and finish with a shower of fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy. Plate the pasta and top with garlic butter chicken bites for a meal that’s guaranteed to be swoon-worthy.

How to Serve Plate the pasta and top with garlic butter chicken bites

Garnishes

For a picture-perfect finish, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and a little more grated Parmesan cheese over each platter. A tiny pinch of chili flakes or cracked black pepper adds a pop of color and a subtle heat. These final touches don’t just make Plate the pasta and top with garlic butter chicken bites look restaurant-worthy — they add a spark of flavor and freshness that brightens every bite.

Side Dishes

Pairing options are endless! A bright, tangy salad (like arugula with lemon vinaigrette) balances the dish’s rich creaminess beautifully. Crusty bread is a must for mopping up that leftover parmesan sauce, and roasted broccoli or garlicky green beans make excellent veggie sides. When you plate the pasta and top with garlic butter chicken bites, these additions elevate the meal for a memorable dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving guests or want date-night flair, pile the creamy pasta into shallow bowls and fan the chicken bites attractively across the top. For a family-style dinner, swirl the pasta onto a stunning platter and scatter with chicken and parsley, letting everyone dig in. To impress, drizzle a touch of garlic butter around the plate right before you plate the pasta and top with garlic butter chicken bites.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftover pasta and chicken into airtight containers as soon as possible. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the chicken separate from the pasta if you can — that way, everything reheats beautifully and stays tender.

Freezing

Creamy pasta sauces can be tricky to freeze, but it’s possible! Place cooled pasta and chicken (separately is best) in freezer-safe containers for up to two months. When ready to enjoy again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. If the sauce separates a bit, don’t worry — a quick stir while reheating will bring it back together.

Reheating

For the creamiest results, reheat pasta and chicken gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to restore sauciness. Microwave works too — just cover and stir in a bit of extra liquid. Your leftovers will be almost as dreamy as the night you first plate the pasta and top with garlic butter chicken bites.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Parmesan?

Absolutely! While parmesan gives the sauce its signature nutty depth, you could try pecorino, asiago, or any hard, richly flavored cheese you love. Just know that the flavor and texture will shift a bit, but it will still complement when you plate the pasta and top with garlic butter chicken bites.

Can I substitute chicken for another protein?

Yes, shrimp, turkey breast, or even tofu work beautifully! For shrimp, cook quickly until just pink; for tofu, press it first and fry until crisp. Either will shine when you plate the pasta and top with garlic butter chicken bites — or their delicious stand-ins.

Is there a lighter version of this recipe?

You can lighten things up by using half-and-half or whole milk in the sauce instead of heavy cream and a modest sprinkle of parmesan for flavor. The dish will still taste decadent when you plate the pasta and top with garlic butter chicken bites, just a touch less rich.

What’s the best pasta shape for this recipe?

Fettuccine or penne are divine because they really grab onto that sauce, but honestly, any pasta you love works. Long noodles, short tubes, or even stuffed pastas — they all shine when you plate the pasta and top with garlic butter chicken bites.

How can I make the sauce extra creamy?

If you want sauce that clings like a dream, add the cheese gradually while whisking, and use your reserved pasta water to thin everything out beautifully. When you plate the pasta and top with garlic butter chicken bites, every noodle will be bathed in silken creaminess.

Final Thoughts

Dinner doesn’t get more comforting (or impressive!) than when you plate the pasta and top with garlic butter chicken bites and let those dreamy, buttery flavors shine. Whether you’re sharing it family-style or treating yourself after a long day, this dish will win hearts and satisfy cravings every time. Give it a try — your taste buds will thank you!

Plate the pasta and top with garlic butter chicken bites Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 11 reviews

Author: Mariam
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: None

Print Recipe

Description

Tender garlic butter chicken bites served over creamy parmesan pasta make for a decadent and satisfying meal.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta until al dente, then set aside.
Prepare the Chicken: Season and cook chicken until golden brown.
Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce: Prepare a creamy sauce with heavy cream, Parmesan, and spices.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss pasta in the sauce until coated.
Assemble the Dish: Plate pasta and top with chicken bites. Garnish with parsley.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian