Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Golden Garlic Chicken Bites is the ultimate comfort food, blending tender chicken with a rich, cheesy pasta sauce. Highlighting Italian-inspired flavors through garlic, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley, this dish is both flavorful and nourishing. With a few simple ingredients, it’s easy to prepare yet delivers a gourmet feel, making it ideal for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Golden Garlic Chicken Bites Recipe
- High in Protein and Nutrients
Lean chicken breast provides an excellent source of protein, while Parmesan cheese adds rich calcium and flavor. - Rich, Indulgent Flavor
A creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce coats the pasta, and fresh parsley adds brightness to balance the richness. - Quick and Easy to Prepare
Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy nights, offering a satisfying meal without complicated steps. - Customizable for Different Diets
Easily adjust to suit low-carb or vegetarian diets, offering flexibility without sacrificing taste.
Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Golden Garlic Chicken Bites Recipe
Treat yourself to a comforting dish of golden garlic chicken bites atop creamy, cheesy Parmesan pasta. It’s indulgent, flavorful, and perfect for an impressive yet easy dinner.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Bites
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken Bites
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and paprika, then sauté in the skillet for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
Create the Creamy Sauce
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well. Simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Add Parmesan and Finish the Sauce
- Gradually stir in grated Parmesan cheese, letting it melt seamlessly into the sauce. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to thicken.
Combine and Serve
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy Parmesan sauce until well-coated. Top with golden chicken bites and garnish with fresh parsley.
Serve immediately and enjoy this garlic-infused, creamy pasta!
Cooking Tip: To keep the chicken tender, avoid overcooking it. Add a splash of pasta water to the sauce if it’s too thick, which helps it coat the pasta evenly.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. A side of garlic bread or roasted asparagus complements the rich, creamy sauce beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if needed to restore creaminess. Avoid freezing, as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.
Variations of Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Golden Garlic Chicken Bites Recipe
- Vegetarian Parmesan Pasta
Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for a hearty, vegetarian option. - Low-Carb Creamy Parmesan Chicken
Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a low-carb meal. Toss with the sauce and chicken for a lighter version. - Spicy Parmesan Pasta
Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a hint of spice, or season the chicken with a dash of hot sauce. - Gluten-Free Parmesan Pasta
Use gluten-free pasta and follow the same instructions. The sauce and chicken are already gluten-free, making this an easy adaptation.
FAQs
- Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Fettuccine, linguine, or penne work well. Choose a pasta that holds creamy sauces nicely for best results. - How can I make the sauce thicker?
Simmer the sauce for a few extra minutes after adding Parmesan or add more cheese for thickness. - Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
For a lighter option, use whole milk, though it won’t be as thick. Add more Parmesan or a splash of half-and-half for thickness. - How do I avoid the sauce from breaking?
Avoid high heat while cooking the sauce, as it can cause the cream to separate. Stir frequently and add Parmesan slowly. - Can I substitute Parmesan with another cheese?
Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are good substitutes, though these cheeses have stronger flavors, so adjust to taste. - Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Use dairy-free butter, almond or coconut cream, and vegan Parmesan. The flavor will differ slightly, but it will still be creamy and delicious. - How do I make the chicken extra tender?
Marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice for 15-30 minutes before cooking for added flavor and tenderness. - Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Broccoli, spinach, or cherry tomatoes make excellent additions, adding color and nutrients.
Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Golden Garlic Chicken Bites is a comforting, flavorful meal combining tender chicken bites with a creamy, cheesy pasta sauce. With simple ingredients and customizable options, this recipe offers restaurant-quality flavors in an easy-to-make dish. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or special occasion, it’s sure to impress with rich, indulgent flavors and satisfying textures.