Delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Pasta Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Pasta is a savory and satisfying dish that’s bursting with flavor. Tender chicken pieces are seared to perfection, then tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce and combined with perfectly cooked pasta. This quick and easy recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners but fancy enough for guests. Creamy, garlicky, and hearty—it’s comfort food done right.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless skinless chicken breast or thighssaltpepperpaprikaolive oilunsalted buttergarlic (minced)Italian seasoningred pepper flakes (optional)parmesan cheese (grated)fresh parsley (chopped)pasta (such as penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)

directions

Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt butter. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Stir in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using).

Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter sauce.

Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until well combined.

Sprinkle with grated parmesan and chopped parsley. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist.

Add a splash of heavy cream for a creamier sauce.

Mix in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for added texture and flavor.

Swap parmesan for pecorino or mozzarella for a different cheesy profile.

Use gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-friendly.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or butter to keep it moist.You can also microwave in 30-second bursts until warmed through.

Delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Pasta Recipe

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, just warm it up in the garlic butter sauce before adding the pasta.

What type of pasta works best?

Short pasta like penne or fusilli works great, but long noodles like spaghetti also pair well.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. Reheat gently to maintain texture.

Is this dish spicy?

Only if you add red pepper flakes—feel free to skip them for a milder version.

Can I freeze it?

It’s best eaten fresh, but you can freeze it without the pasta. Add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Fresh garlic is recommended for the best flavor, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Chicken should be golden on the outside and no longer pink inside—internal temp should reach 165°F (74°C).

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Pasta is the ultimate quick dinner with big flavor and minimal fuss. It’s a crowd-pleasing recipe that brings together juicy chicken, garlicky butter, and hearty pasta in one delicious dish. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.

Print
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Delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Pasta Recipe

Delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Pasta Recipe

  • Author: simplemealsbykim
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Lactose

Description

A flavorful and satisfying pasta dish featuring tender chicken bites cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, served over perfectly cooked pasta.


Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 8 ounces pasta (penne or your choice)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water


Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta in salted water according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add butter and olive oil. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 6-8 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
  4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken and garlic butter.
  5. Pour in the reserved pasta water gradually, stirring to create a sauce that coats the pasta evenly.
  6. Stir in Parmesan cheese and mix well until melted and combined.
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melting quality.
  • You can add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition.
  • Adjust spice levels by adding more or less red pepper flakes.