Garlic butter chicken bites with creamy pasta started as a last-minute dinner idea one evening when I was craving something rich and comforting but didn’t want to spend an hour in the kitchen. I had a pack of chicken breasts in the fridge and just enough pasta to feed everyone. I tossed the chicken with garlic butter and seared it until golden, then whipped up a quick creamy sauce with pantry staples and poured it over a tangle of spaghetti. That night it felt like restaurant food—minus the wait and the bill.

Since then, this dish has become a go-to whenever I want something that feels special without being complicated. The chicken is juicy with crispy edges and the pasta is silky and indulgent. I love that you can dress it up with herbs or leave it simple and it always turns out delicious. It’s cozy, crowd-pleasing, and weeknight-friendly all in one plate.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use to create this creamy, savory favorite!

Chicken breast – Diced into bite-sized pieces for fast, even cooking
Garlic – Infuses the butter and sauce with bold, fragrant flavor
Butter – The base for sautéing the chicken and building a rich sauce
Heavy cream – Makes the sauce velvety and indulgent
Parmesan cheese – Melts into the sauce and adds sharp, nutty flavor
Italian seasoning – Adds a savory, herby note that complements the sauce
Pasta – I love spaghetti or linguine, but any type works beautifully
Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning every layer
Fresh parsley – For a bright, fresh finish

Tools You’ll Need

Skillet – For searing the chicken and building the sauce
Saucepan – To boil the pasta to al dente perfection
Tongs – Useful for tossing the pasta in the sauce
Knife and cutting board – For dicing the chicken and garlic
Grater – For freshly grated Parmesan which melts better than pre-shredded
Measuring cups/spoons – For precise portions of cream and seasoning

Instructions

Step 1:

I start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cooking the pasta until al dente. Then I drain it and set it aside with a little reserved pasta water.

Step 2:

While the pasta cooks, I dice the chicken into small bite-sized pieces, season them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and heat a large skillet with butter.

Step 3:

Once the butter is sizzling, I add the chicken and sear it on all sides until golden brown and cooked through. Then I remove it from the pan and set it aside.

Step 4:

In the same skillet, I add a little more butter and garlic and sauté just until fragrant, making sure not to let the garlic brown too much.

Step 5:

I pour in the heavy cream, stir in the grated Parmesan, and let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens into a creamy consistency.

Step 6:

Then I toss the drained pasta into the sauce and stir until everything is well coated. I add a splash of pasta water if the sauce needs loosening.

Step 7:

Finally, I return the chicken bites to the skillet and gently fold them into the creamy pasta. I sprinkle with chopped parsley just before serving.

Tips

I always let the chicken sit in the hot skillet untouched for the first couple of minutes to get that golden crust. You can use half-and-half for a lighter sauce or even add baby spinach or mushrooms for extra texture. Don’t skip the Parmesan—it’s what gives the sauce its signature savory richness.

Ways to Serve

This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a slice of garlic bread. For a lighter option, I’ve also served it with roasted broccoli or asparagus on the side. If I’m entertaining, I like to finish the dish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and an extra grating of Parmesan right at the table.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make garlic butter chicken bites with creamy pasta ahead of time?

Yes! Just store the chicken and pasta separately in airtight containers and reheat gently before serving.

Can I use a different cut of chicken?

Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs are delicious and stay extra juicy.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine are great options but you can use penne or rotini if that’s what you have.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure your Parmesan is gluten-free too.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try this garlic butter chicken bites with creamy pasta soon! It’s one of those dishes that feels fancy but comes together fast and always impresses. Let me know how it turns out or if you put your own spin on it—I’d love to hear what you create.

Happy Cooking!