There’s something about the aroma of garlic sizzling in butter that instantly transports me back to Mama Lou’s cozy kitchen, where love was the most important ingredient in every dish. Today, I’m sharing a recipe that combines the warmth of tradition with a touch of modern ease—Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Pasta. This dish is a celebration of flavors that danced through my childhood, offering a comforting embrace with every bite. It’s a meal that brings my sister Ouma and me together, reminiscent of our giggles and whispered secrets shared over bowls of pasta at the kitchen table.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Pasta
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Pasta is more than just a recipe; it’s a heartfelt journey into flavors that comfort the soul. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, yet elegant enough for a cozy dinner with loved ones. The tender chicken bites are infused with rich garlic butter, and the pasta serves as the perfect canvas to soak up all the deliciousness. What makes this recipe special is its ability to bring people together, just as it did for my family. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, you’ll find joy in creating and savoring this delightful meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Pasta
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces pasta of your choice (penne or fettuccine work well)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For a twist, you can substitute the chicken with shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian version. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility, allowing you to tailor it to your own family’s tastes, just like Mama Lou always did.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 450 per serving
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
Savor the Flavor: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Pasta Extravaganza
Learn how to make delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Pasta. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces pasta of your choice (penne or fettuccine work well)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For a twist, you can substitute the chicken with shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian version. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility, allowing you to tailor it to your own family’s tastes, just like Mama Lou always did.
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, add the cooked pasta, and toss everything together to coat in the garlic butter. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of pasta water.
- Stir in the lemon juice and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix well to combine.
- Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley over the top before serving.
As you cook, remember that the key to this recipe is patience. Letting the garlic gently infuse the butter will ensure your dish is packed with flavor, a technique I learned standing by Mama Lou’s side, watching her create magic with the simplest of ingredients.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, add the cooked pasta, and toss everything together to coat in the garlic butter. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of pasta water.
- Stir in the lemon juice and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix well to combine.
- Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley over the top before serving.
As you cook, remember that the key to this recipe is patience. Letting the garlic gently infuse the butter will ensure your dish is packed with flavor, a technique I learned standing by Mama Lou’s side, watching her create magic with the simplest of ingredients.
Tips for Making the Best Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Pasta
To elevate your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Pasta, consider these tips:
“Take your time with the garlic. Don’t rush it. Let it dance slowly in the butter until it’s golden and fragrant, just like Mama Lou taught me.” – Chef Sofia
- Use fresh garlic: It makes all the difference in flavor compared to pre-minced options.
- Season generously: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper, as they bring out the flavors beautifully.
- Cook pasta al dente: This ensures the perfect texture, allowing the pasta to complement the tender chicken bites.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Pasta is wonderfully versatile. Pair it with a crisp green salad drizzled with a simple vinaigrette, and you’ve got a balanced meal. A glass of chilled white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc can enhance the dish’s flavors, making it a delightful dining experience. If you’re serving it as part of a family gathering, consider adding a basket of warm, crusty bread to soak up any leftover garlic butter—a tradition my sister Ouma and I still cherish.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of water or chicken broth to the pasta before warming it in a skillet over medium heat. This helps to revive the sauce and keep everything moist. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the pasta and chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Pasta?
The main ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Pasta include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Pasta?
The total time to make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Pasta includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Pasta can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Pasta?
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Pasta pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Pasta suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Pasta may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Pasta is more than a meal; it’s a shared experience, a gathering of flavors that tells a story of love, tradition, and family. It’s a dish that invites you to pause, savor, and create memories around the table—a sentiment deeply rooted in my own culinary journey with Mama Lou and Ouma. May this recipe bring warmth to your kitchen and joy to your heart, as it has done for me.
