Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Pasta is a savory, comforting dish packed with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes. Juicy, seared chicken bites are coated in a rich garlic butter sauce and tossed with perfectly cooked pasta, creating a hearty and satisfying meal the whole family will love. It’s perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or impressing guests without much fuss.

ingredients

Delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Pasta Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
garlic (minced)
unsalted butter
olive oil
salt
black pepper
Italian seasoning
paprika
crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
parmesan cheese (grated)
fresh parsley (chopped)
pasta of choice (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
chicken broth or pasta water
lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

directions

Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water or use chicken broth.

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and half of the butter.

Add the chicken and sear until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, add remaining butter and garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Deglaze with a splash of pasta water or chicken broth, scraping up the browned bits from the pan.

Return the chicken to the skillet, add cooked pasta, and toss everything together.

Stir in grated parmesan and a squeeze of lemon juice if using. Add more liquid if needed for a saucier texture.

Garnish with chopped parsley and additional parmesan before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

Use shrimp or sausage instead of chicken for a different protein twist.
Add spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for extra veggies and color.
Use gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-friendly.
Swap butter for ghee or dairy-free butter for a lactose-free version.
Make it spicy by adding more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, just add it after making the garlic butter sauce to heat through.

What type of pasta works best?

Short pasta like penne or fusilli holds the sauce well, but any type works.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes, it reheats beautifully and is great for meal prep.

Is this recipe spicy?

It’s mild by default; add red pepper flakes for heat.

What’s the best way to make it saucier?

Add more broth or pasta water and increase the butter or parmesan.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Use dairy-free butter and skip the cheese or use a vegan alternative.

How do I know the chicken is done?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) and no pink should remain.

Can I freeze it?

Yes, freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat gently.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely, it’s a great shortcut.

Is lemon necessary?

No, but it brightens the dish and balances the richness.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Pasta is a flavorful, fuss-free dinner that brings comfort and satisfaction in every bite. With tender chicken, savory garlic butter, and cheesy pasta, it’s a surefire hit for busy nights or cozy dinners. Give it a try—you’ll want it on repeat in your meal rotation!