Looking for a rich and indulgent meal that’s both comforting and easy to prepare? Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the perfect recipe for you! This dish combines crispy chicken bites coated in a creamy, flavorful butter sauce with a silky parmesan pasta. It’s a crowd-pleaser that will become a family favorite in no time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor-packed: The buttery, garlicky chicken bites pair perfectly with creamy parmesan pasta.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: A rich and creamy meal that will satisfy your cravings.
- Kid-Friendly: Tender chicken and cheesy pasta that even picky eaters will love.
Ingredients
For the Butter Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb (500g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite type)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken Bites
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 5-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
2. Make the Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the heavy cream and cook for about 2 minutes until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the buttery sauce. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the chicken is well coated and heated through.
3. Cook the Pasta
- While the chicken is simmering, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a separate pan, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until well coated.
4. Combine & Serve
- Plate the creamy parmesan pasta and top with the buttery chicken bites.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro for the chicken and chopped parsley for the pasta.
Tips for the Best Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- Use chicken breast for a leaner option, but thighs work well for extra juiciness.
- Don’t overcook the chicken—it should be tender and juicy.
- Customize the sauce by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
- For a thicker pasta sauce, add more parmesan cheese and simmer the sauce for longer.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with:
- Garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a light side dish.
- Extra parmesan for sprinkling on top of the pasta for an even cheesier experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! You can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can cook the chicken and make the creamy parmesan sauce ahead of time. Store each separately in the fridge and combine just before serving.
Final Thoughts
Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate comfort food. The combination of crispy chicken and creamy, cheesy pasta will leave everyone asking for seconds. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, this dish is perfect for a busy weeknight or a special dinner.
Try this recipe today, and let us know how you like it in the comments!