Dinner

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe

ByMatteo Rossi February 9, 2026February 9, 2026

Introduction

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a quick and comforting meal that blends tender, flavorful chicken with a rich, cheesy pasta sauce. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or whenever you want something delicious and satisfying without the fuss.

A close-up of a white bowl filled with creamy fettuccine pasta at the bottom, light yellow with a smooth texture. On top of the pasta, there are several pieces of golden-brown grilled chicken with a slightly crispy surface, arranged evenly across the dish. Small green herbs are sprinkled over the chicken and pasta, adding a touch of color. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
8 oz (225 g) fettuccine or pasta of choice
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
Step 2: Toss the chicken pieces with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, add butter and let it melt. Add the chicken and cook for 4–6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Add minced garlic in the last minute, then remove chicken and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with nutmeg (if using), salt, and pepper. Add reserved pasta water as needed to adjust sauce consistency.
Step 4: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat well with the sauce. Top with garlic butter chicken bites and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne for the best pasta pairing with this sauce.
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and creates a smoother sauce than pre-grated versions.
Don’t overcook the chicken; cooking just until golden ensures tender, juicy bites.
For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
Add vegetables like sautéed spinach, roasted cherry tomatoes, or steamed broccoli for extra nutrition and color.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy texture. Avoid overheating to prevent the sauce from separating or the chicken from drying out.

How to Serve

A white plate holds creamy fettuccine pasta topped with golden-brown, grilled chicken pieces that have a slight char and crispy edges. The pasta is mixed with a smooth, light-colored sauce, while small green herbs are sprinkled over the chicken, adding a fresh touch. The dish looks rich and creamy with the chicken sitting clearly on top of the noodles. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat instead of chicken?

Yes, this recipe works well with shrimp, turkey, or diced pork. Adjust the cooking time accordingly since shrimp cooks faster than chicken.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken bites and creamy Parmesan sauce separately and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat everything and toss with freshly cooked pasta for the best results.