Looking for a quick, creamy, and flavorful dinner idea? These garlic butter chicken bites with creamy pasta are the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights! Ready in under 30 minutes and packed with flavor.
There’s something magical about garlic, butter, and pasta coming together in one pan. If you’re always on the hunt for quick yet comforting dinner recipes, this easy garlic chicken bites with creamy pasta dish is about to become your new weeknight favorite. It’s delicious, kid-friendly, and requires minimal prep. Even better? It tastes like something you’d get at a cozy Italian restaurant—without the hefty bill or long wait.
Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping, or just feeding yourself, this recipe checks all the boxes: it’s fast, satisfying, and foolproof.
Ingredients You’ll Need
2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
250g (8 oz) penne or fettuccine pasta
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Boil water in a large pot, add a pinch of salt, and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken Bites
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 5–6 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Add the remaining butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
4. Create the Creamy Sauce
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer for a few minutes before adding the Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Combine Pasta & Chicken
Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet and mix until everything is evenly coated with the sauce. Adjust seasoning if needed.
✅ Pros of This Recipe
Quick to Make: Done in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.
Minimal Ingredients: You probably already have most of these in your pantry.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the creamy texture and rich garlic flavor.
Budget-Friendly: No fancy ingredients or restaurant bills.
Versatile: Add veggies like spinach or mushrooms to make it more wholesome.
Great for Meal Prep: Make a double batch and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Impressive Presentation: Looks gourmet, tastes comforting.
❌ Cons (Just a Few)
Not Dairy-Free: Contains cream and cheese, which some may need to substitute.
Garlic Sensitivity: Strong garlic flavor may be overpowering for some.
Not Ideal for Low-Carb Diets: Contains pasta unless you sub with zucchini noodles.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy garlic chicken pasta with:
A light green salad
Steamed broccoli
Garlic bread for that extra buttery kick!
Want to take it to the next level? Drizzle a little truffle oil or sprinkle some red chili flakes for a spicy twist.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Creamy pasta can be frozen, though texture might change slightly.
Reheat: Gently reheat on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce.
Extra Tips
Don’t overcrowd the pan while cooking the chicken. This helps get that golden crust!
Use fresh garlic—not garlic powder—for a stronger, deeper flavor.
Stir in baby spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrition and color.
Final Thoughts
This garlic butter chicken with creamy pasta is more than just a quick fix dinner—it’s a comfort meal that everyone will crave again and again. It’s rich, flavorful, and gives you restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. Whether it’s a lazy weeknight or an impromptu dinner with friends, this dish never fails to impress.
Don’t forget to save this recipe and share it with your fellow foodies.