Ah, Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Pasta! Just saying the name makes my tastebuds dance with joy. This dish is one of my absolute favorites because it combines several of my guilty pleasures: tender chicken, rich garlic butter, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a meal that feels indulgent but comes together in a snap, perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing weekend guests.
I still remember the first time I made this pasta. I had just come back from a long day at work, completely exhausted and craving something comforting. I opened my fridge and pantry, and voilà! A whirlwind of flavors came together, and I fell in love with the simplicity of it. Now, I whip it up whenever I need a quick pick-me-up, and it never disappoints!
What’s in Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Pasta?
Chicken Breast: Chicken breast is the star here, and I prefer to use boneless and skinless for easy cooking. It’s lean, tender, and absorbs all that garlicky goodness beautifully.
Pasta: I love using penne or farfalle for this dish because their shapes hold onto the sauce perfectly. But honestly, use whatever you have on hand – it’ll still taste delightful!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must! The smell of sautéing garlic fills your kitchen with warmth and love. I usually go for at least four cloves, but feel free to adjust to taste!
Butter: Because it’s Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Pasta after all! A good quality unsalted butter enhances the flavor without making things too salty.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, brightening up the whole dish. Plus, it’s a great way to add some green!
Parmesan Cheese: Who can resist a sprinkle of salty, cheesy goodness? Grated parmesan right before serving takes this dish to another level of deliciousness.
Is Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Pasta Good for You?
Well, we all know that this is a comfort dish rather than a health-food contender, but it does have some redeeming qualities!
Chicken Breast: It’s packed with protein, essential for muscle development and maintenance.
Pasta: When made with whole grain, it offers fiber and can be part of a healthy diet. Just keep in mind portion sizes.
Garlic: Garlic has antioxidant properties and is known to support immune function, so it’s a win-win! The butter, while tasty, is caloric, so moderation is key!
Remember, balance is essential in any diet, and indulging once in a while can bring joy to our meals!
Ingredients List
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 ounces pasta of your choice (penne or farfalle recommended)
– 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
(Serves 4)
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Pasta?
1. Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, until al dente. Reserve some pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of the butter.
3. Once melted, add the chicken bites. Season with salt and pepper, cooking until brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant – be careful not to burn it!
5. Add the drained pasta, cooked chicken, and a splash of pasta water to the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined.
6. Stir in the parsley and grated parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
7. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you love a kick, don’t hesitate to sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.
8. Serve hot, and sprinkle with extra parmesan if you’re feeling indulgent!
Get Creative with Your Pasta Dish!
Feel free to experiment! Add some veggies like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for a healthier twist. You can also swap the chicken for shrimp or make it completely vegetarian with just the garlic butter sauce and veggies.
I hope you try this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Pasta soon! It’s so comforting and delicious that I can’t wait for you to enjoy it as much as I do. Don’t forget to share your experience with me, and let me know how it turns out! Happy cooking, my friend!
