Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy – Ready in about 45 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Rich & Creamy – The Parmesan sauce is smooth, cheesy, and utterly delicious.
Garlic Butter Chicken – Juicy, tender bites of chicken infused with garlic and butter.
Customizable – Add vegetables, spices, or extra toppings to make it your own.
Kid-Friendly – A cheesy, creamy pasta that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

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

For the Chicken Bites

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
3 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta

12 oz fettuccine or your favorite pasta
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup chicken broth
½ cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon dried parsley
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to package directions until al dente.
Drain and reserve about 1 cup of pasta water.

2. Season the Chicken

In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.

3. Cook the Chicken Bites

Heat 3 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

4. Prepare the Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Reduce heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Season with salt, pepper, and dried parsley.

5. Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.

6. Add the Chicken Bites

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and gently mix with the pasta and sauce.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately while warm. Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

Yields: 4-6 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Add Vegetables – Stir in broccoli, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrients.
Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for a hint of heat.
Cheese Blend – Use a mix of Parmesan and Pecorino Romano for a deeper flavor.
Fresh Herbs – Swap dried parsley for fresh parsley or basil for a fresher taste.
Lemon Zest – A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the dish.
Wine Option – Add a splash of white wine to the sauce while simmering for extra depth.
Chicken Thighs – Swap chicken breast for thighs for a juicier bite, but increase cooking time slightly.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm on the stove over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to maintain the sauce's creaminess. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Freezing: Not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate when thawed.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Penne, spaghetti, or linguine all work well in this dish.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Increase the Parmesan cheese slightly or let the sauce simmer for a few extra minutes to reduce.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce won’t be as rich. Whole milk or half-and-half is a better alternative.

How do I prevent the sauce from getting too thick?

Reserve pasta water and add it gradually while mixing the pasta with the sauce.

What can I serve with this dish?

A simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair well.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but it's best served fresh. If making ahead, store components separately and mix before reheating.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Use whole wheat pasta, light cream, or reduce butter for a lighter version.

Can I cook the chicken in olive oil instead of butter?

Yes, but butter adds extra richness and flavor.

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

Don’t overcook it—remove from heat once it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all seasonings and ingredients are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, garlicky, and packed with flavor. Whether you're making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to be a hit. Customize it with your favorite add-ins and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!