Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Pasta – Easy Dinner

Craving a comforting and satisfying dinner that hits all the right notes—crispy, juicy chicken, rich creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta? Look no further than this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Pasta recipe. It’s a simple yet flavor-packed dish that comes together in about 30 minutes and makes everyone at the table go back for seconds.

These seared chicken bites are seasoned to perfection and cooked in garlic butter until golden and juicy. Then, they’re folded into a silky cream sauce that coats every noodle in richness. It’s indulgent without being heavy—and thanks to pantry-friendly ingredients, it’s easy to pull off even on the busiest night.

This is a family dinner favorite, equally perfect for casual weeknights or cozy weekend meals. And yes—it’s totally kid-approved.

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Ingredients Overview

Each component in this dish brings its own role, from texture and flavor to richness and heartiness.

Chicken Breast or Thighs

Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs cut into bite-sized pieces cook quickly and absorb flavor beautifully. Thighs will be juicier, while breasts are leaner.

Garlic

Fresh garlic is key—sautéed in butter to create the aromatic base of both the chicken and the pasta sauce.

Butter

Unsalted butter gives the dish richness and that unmistakable buttery aroma. It helps brown the chicken and forms the base of the cream sauce.

Olive Oil

Helps prevent the butter from burning and adds a subtle peppery note.

Pasta

Choose short pasta like penne, rotini, or farfalle that can hold onto the creamy sauce. Long pasta like fettuccine or linguine also works for a more elegant presentation.

Heavy Cream

Cream gives the sauce its luscious, velvety texture. It blends perfectly with Parmesan and butter for a classic Alfredo-style finish.

Parmesan Cheese

Use freshly grated Parmesan—it melts better and thickens the sauce naturally while adding salty, nutty depth.

Italian Seasoning, Paprika, Salt & Pepper

Season the chicken generously for bold flavor in every bite. A mix of Italian seasoning and paprika adds herby warmth and a touch of color.

Fresh Parsley (Optional)

Brightens up the final dish and adds a fresh contrast to the creamy base.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

This dish has two main components: the garlic butter chicken bites and the creamy pasta. You can make them simultaneously or in stages depending on your comfort level.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook your pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Season and Sear Chicken

Pat chicken pieces dry and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.

Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer and sear for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same pan, lower heat slightly. Add remaining butter and garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring frequently.

Step 4: Build the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Chicken

Add cooked pasta and chicken bites back to the pan. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to loosen the sauce.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve warm with garlic bread or a simple green salad.

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Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Pro Tips

• Sear chicken in batches if needed—overcrowding the pan leads to steaming, not browning.

• Let the cream sauce simmer gently; boiling can cause it to separate.

• Stir cheese in gradually for a smooth sauce.

Variations

• Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta: Add chopped fresh rosemary or thyme to the butter.

• Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta: Swap chicken for shrimp and cook for just 2–3 minutes per side.

• Spicy Creamy Chicken Pasta: Add ½ tsp red pepper flakes or a spoonful of chili paste.

Substitutions

• No heavy cream? Use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream.

• Dairy-free? Use coconut cream and vegan butter, and skip the cheese or use dairy-free Parmesan.

• Gluten-free? Use chickpea or lentil pasta.

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Serving Ideas & Occasions

This dish is perfect when you’re short on time but want to serve something hearty and full of flavor.

Serve with:

• Garlic bread or buttery rolls

• Roasted green beans or asparagus

• Caesar or arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette

Great for:

• Busy weeknights – Ready in under 30 minutes

• Weekend comfort meals – Rich and indulgent

• Holiday pasta dinners – A twist on classic Alfredo

• Lunch meal prep – Makes amazing leftovers

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Nutritional & Health Notes

This pasta is indulgent, but it offers a good balance of protein and carbs, especially when portioned mindfully or paired with veggies.

What Makes It Satisfying:

• Protein from chicken keeps you full longer

• Cream and cheese offer calcium and fat for energy

• Garlic and herbs provide antioxidants and flavor without added sugar

Health Tips:

• Use whole grain or protein pasta to boost fiber

• Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms to stretch the dish and increase nutrients

• Portion control: Pair with a salad or veggie side to create a balanced plate

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FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, but for best flavor, searing raw chicken in garlic butter gives more depth. If using rotisserie or leftover chicken, warm it in the sauce at the end.

2. Can I make this ahead?

It’s best fresh, but leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream.

3. Can I freeze creamy pasta?

Cream-based sauces may separate when frozen and reheated. It’s better to freeze the chicken separately and make the pasta fresh.

4. How can I make it lighter?

Use half-and-half instead of cream and reduce cheese slightly. You can also skip butter in the sauce and use olive oil instead.

5. What pasta shape works best?

Short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells work great. Fettuccine and linguine are excellent too—go with what you love.

6. Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely. Add spinach, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli for color and nutrients.

7. Is it kid-friendly?

Yes! The creamy sauce and garlic butter chicken are usually a big hit with kids. Keep it mild and skip red pepper flakes.

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