This recipe for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta and Spinach is the ultimate comfort meal! Juicy, flavorful chicken bites are cooked to golden perfection in a garlic butter sauce, paired with creamy, cheesy pasta and fresh spinach for a delightful, well-balanced dish. Whether you’re hosting dinner or preparing a quick family meal, this recipe is a surefire crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
The Chicken Bites:
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
The Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
The Spinach:
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken Bites
- Season the chicken: In a bowl, mix the chicken pieces with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the garlic butter: In the same skillet, melt the butter over low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Return the chicken to the skillet, toss to coat in the garlic butter, and keep warm.
2. Cook the Pasta
- Boil the pasta: Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water for later use.
3. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- Prepare the roux: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Add the milk and cream: Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Incorporate the cheese: Stir in the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, nutmeg (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Adjust the consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
4. Sauté the Spinach
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Add the spinach and cook for 2–3 minutes until wilted. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and remove from heat.
5. Combine and Serve
- Toss the cooked pasta in the creamy Parmesan sauce until evenly coated.
- Plate the pasta and top with garlic butter chicken bites and sautéed spinach.
- Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and serve warm.
Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Keep an eye on the chicken bites to ensure they stay juicy and tender.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach, garlic, and Parmesan make a significant difference in flavor.
- Adjust the Sauce Consistency: Add reserved pasta water to make the sauce creamier if needed.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best served fresh and hot.
What to Serve with This Dish
This hearty meal pairs wonderfully with:
- Garlic bread: Perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce.
- Caesar salad: A crisp, refreshing side dish.
- Roasted vegetables: Add some roasted broccoli or carrots for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Simple steps and minimal prep make this recipe ideal for weeknight dinners.
- Rich and Flavorful: The garlic butter chicken and creamy Parmesan sauce are a match made in heaven.
- Versatile: You can substitute spinach with kale or other greens, and use your favorite pasta.
FAQs About Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes! Chicken thighs work well in this recipe and remain juicy after cooking.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of milk to refresh the sauce.
3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free flour for the sauce.
4. What’s the best type of pasta for this recipe?
Fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni work beautifully, but you can use any pasta you like.
Conclusion
This recipe for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta and Spinach is the perfect blend of rich flavors and satisfying textures. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner, this dish will be a guaranteed hit. The juicy chicken, creamy pasta, and fresh spinach create a wholesome and delicious meal that’s as easy to make as it is impressive.
Try this recipe today and enjoy a restaurant-quality dish from the comfort of your home!
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