If you love a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug, then my Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Juicy, tender chicken bites soaked in a luscious garlic butter sauce, paired with silky pasta swimming in rich, creamy Parmesan goodness—this dish is pure indulgence without being complicated. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again for weeknight dinners or impressing friends with something cozy yet impressive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you—each one is essential in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the fresh garlic that adds aromatic punch to the Parmesan cheese that brings creamy, nutty depth, everything works beautifully together to create this crave-worthy meal.
- 1 lb ground chicken: The star protein for light, tender bites that soak up all the sauce perfectly.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Adds just enough binding and a bit of texture to keep the chicken bites tender yet firm.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Infuses a sharp, salty flavor right into the chicken mixture and again into the sauce for richness.
- 1 egg: Helps hold the chicken bites together while adding a touch of moisture.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced (for chicken): Brings a punch of fragrant garlic flavor that pairs heavenly with chicken.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A warm blend of herbs that gives a subtle Mediterranean flair.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a smoky aroma and a subtle earthiness to the meatballs.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Essential to enhance all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A gentle heat that balances the richness.
- 2 tablespoons butter (for cooking chicken): Provides that golden crust and buttery richness.
- 2 tablespoons butter (for sauce): The base for the creamy garlic sauce that clings so perfectly to the pasta.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced (for sauce): Fresh garlic sautéed until fragrant to flavor the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Delivers that rich, velvety texture this dish is famous for.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds savory depth and balances the creaminess.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for sauce): Melts into the sauce to make it decadently cheesy.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Adjust seasoning to make the sauce sing.
- 12 oz spaghetti or linguine, cooked: Choose your favorite long pasta to soak up every bit of sauce.
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Shape the Chicken Bites
First, in a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken with breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This mixture binds together beautifully and is packed with layers of flavor. Then form small, bite-sized balls—this size is perfect for ensuring each bite cooks evenly and holds onto that incredible sauce later.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken Bites
Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat until melted and shimmering. Add your chicken bites and cook, turning occasionally, until they develop a gorgeous golden crust and are cooked through—this usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. This step locks in juiciness while giving each bite a satisfying texture. Remove them from the skillet and set aside; the magic continues in the sauce.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Parmesan Garlic Sauce
Using the same skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium heat and sauté another round of minced garlic until fragrant—just about 1 to 2 minutes. Then pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring constantly. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and thicken the sauce over 3 to 5 minutes. Don’t forget to season with salt and black pepper to your taste. This sauce is the soul of the dish: rich, cheesy, garlicky, and completely irresistible.
Step 4: Combine Chicken Bites with the Sauce
Return the cooked chicken bites to the skillet, gently stirring to coat each one with that luscious sauce. This ensures every morsel is bursting with flavor and perfectly moist, making each bite a delight.
Step 5: Toss Pasta with Chicken and Sauce
Finally, add your cooked spaghetti or linguine straight into the skillet. Toss everything together, letting the pasta soak up all the creamy, cheesy goodness. Serving this right away means you’ll enjoy it at its best, with the sauce clinging beautifully to the tender noodles and chicken bites alike.
How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top for a pop of color and fresh herbal notes. A dusting of extra Parmesan cheese adds an elegant touch and extra flavor boost. If you love a bit of heat, a light sprinkle of red pepper flakes can give a thrilling kick without overpowering the creaminess.
Side Dishes
Pair this dish with a crisp green salad dressed lightly in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up every last drop of creamy sauce. Steamed or roasted vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or green beans make a fresh, vibrant complement that adds texture and nutrition.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive presentation, serve the chicken bites and pasta in shallow bowls, layering the chicken on top and garnishing thoughtfully with herbs and cheese. You can also plate the bites on a bed of pasta or skewer the chicken bites on small sticks as a fun appetizer version before tossing with pasta on the side. Presentation is your chance to make this dish feel as special as it tastes!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of the Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind the sauce thickens as it chills, so it might need a little loosening when reheating.
Freezing
You can freeze the chicken bites separately before adding the sauce and pasta. Place the fully cooked chicken bites in a single layer on a tray to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. It’s best to prepare the sauce and pasta fresh to retain their creamy texture, but you can also freeze the sauce separately if needed.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce’s silky consistency. For microwave reheating, cover loosely and heat in short bursts, stirring in between for even warmth. This attention keeps everything tasting fresh, not dried out or lost in flavor.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitution and will work just as well in this recipe, giving you a slightly different but equally tasty result.
Is this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, swap the regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs and choose gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I make the pasta ahead of time?
It’s best to cook the pasta fresh to prevent it from sticking or becoming mushy. However, if you must prepare it early, toss it with a bit of olive oil and refrigerate, then warm it gently before tossing with the sauce and chicken.
How spicy is this recipe?
This recipe is mild by default, with just a subtle warmth from the paprika. If you want extra heat, adding red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper works perfectly.
Can I use shredded chicken instead of ground chicken?
For this recipe, ground chicken works best to create tender, bite-sized balls. Shredded chicken won’t bind in the same way but could be incorporated into the sauce for a different twist.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend enough making the Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe—it’s one of those dishes that feels like a special occasion but comes together with surprisingly simple ingredients and steps. Whether it’s a weekday dinner or a weekend treat, this comforting, flavorful meal will soon become a beloved staple in your kitchen too. Warm, cheesy, and utterly satisfying, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser every time!
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Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Delicious Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites served with creamy Parmesan pasta in a rich garlic butter sauce, perfect for an easy and comforting dinner.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Bites
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 egg
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter (for cooking chicken)
For the Sauce and Pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 12 oz spaghetti or linguine, cooked according to package instructions
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until fully combined. Form the mixture into small bite-sized balls.
- Cook the Chicken Bites: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add the chicken balls and cook, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Add heavy cream, chicken broth, and grated Parmesan, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Add the cooked chicken balls back into the skillet with the sauce. Stir gently to coat the chicken in the creamy sauce.
- Toss with Pasta and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and chicken, mixing well to combine. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for ground chicken if preferred.
- For a lighter dish, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, but the sauce will be less rich.
- If you prefer, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Add fresh parsley or basil as garnish for added color and flavor.
- Make sure the chicken balls are cooked through by checking the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
