If you’re craving a dinner that’s rich, buttery, and bursting with flavor — but still easy enough for a weeknight — this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Pasta recipe will steal your heart.
Tender, juicy chicken bites are seared to golden perfection, then tossed in a luscious garlic butter sauce that coats every piece of pasta in pure deliciousness. The combination of savory chicken, aromatic garlic, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese creates a dish that’s both comforting and irresistible.
It’s simple, satisfying, and incredibly versatile. You can serve it as-is for a cozy weeknight meal, or elevate it with fresh herbs, a squeeze of lemon, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a fancy touch. Either way, it’s the kind of meal that makes everyone come back for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Pasta
- Ready in 30 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights.
- Juicy chicken with golden, crispy edges.
- Rich garlic butter sauce that’s full of flavor.
- One-pan meal with easy cleanup.
- Family-friendly and endlessly customizable.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
This dish delivers everything you want in a comforting pasta dinner — quick, flavorful, and satisfying. The chicken bites are pan-seared until tender and caramelized, then tossed with pasta and a buttery garlic-Parmesan sauce that clings to every bite.
It’s one of those meals that tastes like it came from a restaurant but uses simple pantry ingredients. You don’t need cream or complicated steps — just good butter, fresh garlic, and a little love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken Bites
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
For the Garlic Butter Pasta
- 8 oz (225 g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ cup chicken broth or reserved pasta water
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Pasta (Step by Step)
Step 1: Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sear the chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken bites in a single layer, season with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Make the garlic butter sauce
In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Add liquid and Parmesan
Pour in the chicken broth (or reserved pasta water) and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer for 2 minutes, then stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce slightly thickens.
Step 5: Combine everything
Add the cooked pasta and chicken bites to the skillet. Toss to coat everything evenly in the sauce. If needed, add a splash of pasta water for a silkier texture.
Step 6: Serve and garnish
Sprinkle with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan before serving. Enjoy hot and fresh!
Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Pasta
Use bite-sized chicken pieces
Smaller chunks cook faster and absorb more flavor from the butter and garlic.
Pat the chicken dry before cooking
Dry chicken means better browning and caramelization.
Don’t overcrowd the pan
Cook the chicken in batches if needed — this helps it sear instead of steam.
Use good-quality butter
Butter is the heart of this dish, so choose one with a rich, creamy flavor.
Add garlic carefully
Garlic burns fast — cook it just until fragrant, not brown.
Reserve pasta water
It’s the secret to making the sauce cling perfectly to the pasta.
Add heat
A pinch of red pepper flakes gives a subtle kick that balances the butteriness.
Finish with lemon
A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the entire dish.
Use freshly grated Parmesan
It melts better and adds authentic Italian flavor.
Serve immediately
This dish is best eaten hot when the sauce is glossy and buttery.
Variations & Substitutions
- Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta: Add ½ cup heavy cream for a richer sauce.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
- Herb Lover’s Version: Add fresh basil, parsley, or thyme.
- Lemon Garlic Pasta: Add zest and juice of one lemon for brightness.
- Bacon Twist: Stir in crispy bacon pieces before serving.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Add spinach, peas, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Mix in mozzarella or Asiago for extra creaminess.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and check your broth label.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
- Protein Swap: Try shrimp or salmon instead of chicken.
What to Serve With Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Pasta
- Garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls
- Caesar salad or mixed greens with vinaigrette
- Steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus
- Caprese salad for a fresh side
- White wine like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay
- Tiramisu or lemon bars for dessert perfection
Storage & Reheating Tips
To Store:
Cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
To Reheat:
Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to restore creaminess.
To Freeze:
Freeze before adding Parmesan for best texture. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes — they stay juicier and add a richer flavor.
Can I make it creamy?
Yes! Add heavy cream or cream cheese for a thicker, creamier sauce.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Absolutely — just toss it in during the last step to heat through.
Can I use butter only (no oil)?
You can, but adding a little oil prevents the butter from burning.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes — spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms make excellent additions.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use dairy-free butter and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes — reheat with a splash of broth before serving.
Can I add wine to the sauce?
Definitely — a splash of white wine adds great depth and aroma.
Can I use another cheese?
Mozzarella, Asiago, or pecorino all work well.
Does it taste good cold?
It’s best warm, but it also works as a cold pasta salad the next day!