Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Pasta – Rich, Golden, and Weeknight-Ready

Craving something buttery, creamy, and incredibly satisfying? This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Pasta recipe is the ultimate comfort dish: golden-seared chicken bites drenched in garlic butter, paired with tender pasta tossed in a silky cream sauce. It’s a restaurant-worthy meal made at home in under 35 minutes, perfect for cozy dinners, date nights, or feeding a hungry family.

Introduction: Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta

There’s something irresistible about garlic and butter—especially when they coat juicy, pan-seared chicken and get paired with a creamy pasta that soaks up every last bit of flavor.

This recipe is a crowd-pleaser for good reason:

It’s quick and simple, yet feels fancy.

It combines rich, savory chicken with a balanced, creamy pasta.

It’s endlessly customizable, from herbs to pasta shape.

Whether you’re whipping up an easy dinner for two or feeding a table full of hungry people, Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Pasta delivers big on flavor with just a handful of ingredients.

Ingredient Overview: The Flavor Power Players
Chicken Breast or Thighs

Cut into bite-sized chunks, they cook quickly and stay juicy. Thighs offer more flavor, while breasts are leaner.

Garlic

Fresh garlic cloves are key for that fragrant, buttery base. Mince or finely grate for maximum aroma.

Butter

The star of the sauce. Use unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness, and don’t skimp—it makes the dish rich and luscious.

Pasta

Fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni work beautifully to hold onto the creamy sauce. Cook al dente so it doesn’t go mushy when combined.

Heavy Cream

Creates a velvety sauce that balances the garlic butter and adds indulgence. Substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.

Parmesan Cheese

Melts into the cream to thicken and flavor the sauce. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest results.

Olive Oil

Used to sear the chicken without burning the butter, and adds extra flavor.

Salt, Black Pepper & Italian Seasoning

Essential seasonings to bring out every savory note.

Fresh Parsley (Optional)

Adds a touch of color and freshness for garnish.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Pasta
1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Add pasta and cook until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

2. Sear the Chicken Bites

Cut 1.5 lbs chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Season with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning.

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat.

Add chicken in a single layer and sear 4–5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook another 3–4 minutes. Remove and set aside.

3. Make the Garlic Butter

Reduce heat to medium.

In the same skillet, add 3 tablespoons butter.

Once melted, add 4–5 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant (but not browned).

4. Build the Cream Sauce

Pour in 1 cup heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

Stir in ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Season with more salt and pepper to taste. Simmer 2–3 minutes to thicken.

5. Combine Chicken and Pasta

Add chicken bites back to the pan and stir to coat in the sauce.

Add cooked pasta and toss everything together.

If the sauce is too thick, stir in a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen.

6. Garnish and Serve

Top with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan, if desired. Serve hot in shallow bowls or family-style in the skillet.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions
Tips for Success:

Sear chicken in batches to avoid steaming and get a nice golden crust.

Use fresh garlic for the best flavor—jarred garlic won’t have the same punch.

Don’t overcook pasta since it continues to cook slightly in the sauce.

Flavor Variations:

Add spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for extra veggies.

Spice it up with red pepper flakes or a spoonful of chili garlic oil.

Use lemon zest or juice for brightness to cut through the richness.

Substitutions:

Dairy-free: Use plant-based cream and butter, and skip or sub the cheese.

Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your cheese and seasonings are gluten-free.

No cream? Substitute half-and-half, evaporated milk, or a mix of milk and cornstarch.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

This dish is comforting yet elegant enough for a range of occasions:

Weeknight Dinner

It comes together quickly and hits all the right flavor notes. Serve with a side salad or steamed broccoli.

Date Night

Serve with a glass of white wine, dim the lights, and enjoy a cozy meal for two.

Dinner Party

Double the recipe and serve from a large skillet. It looks beautiful and feeds a crowd.

Leftovers?

Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk. Best enjoyed within 2–3 days.

Nutrition & Health Notes

This dish is indulgent, but easily adjustable for different dietary needs:

Protein-Packed

Chicken adds lean protein, making the meal filling and satisfying.

Customizable Creaminess

Adjust cream and cheese quantities to suit your nutrition goals. Half-and-half reduces fat without sacrificing texture.

Balanced Meal Potential

Add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or green beans to boost fiber and nutrients.

FAQ
1. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the chicken and sauce ahead, then reheat and toss with fresh pasta just before serving.

2. What pasta shape works best?

Fettuccine, penne, rotini, or rigatoni are great options. Choose something that holds onto the sauce.

3. Can I use milk instead of cream?

Whole milk can work, but the sauce will be thinner. Add a little flour or cornstarch to thicken it if needed.

4. How do I avoid overcooking the chicken?

Cut chicken into uniform pieces and cook over medium-high heat just until no longer pink inside. Don’t overcrowd the pan.

5. Can I make this spicy?

Yes! Add chili flakes, cayenne, or a drizzle of hot sauce to the butter or sauce.

6. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk.

7. Can I freeze this dish?

Not recommended. Cream-based sauces tend to separate when thawed. Best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.

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