If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal, these Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta are the answer. This dish combines tender chicken with rich, buttery garlic flavors, paired with a creamy pasta that’s sure to satisfy. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, it’s a simple recipe that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Steps
- Begin by preheating a 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. While the skillet is heating, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
- In a bowl, coat the chicken pieces with flour, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken until it is evenly coated and no flour remains on the bowl.
- Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter to the hot skillet. Allow the butter to melt quickly and tilt the pan to distribute the melted mixture evenly.
- Place the chicken pieces in the skillet in a single layer, ensuring there is space between them to allow browning. Cook for about 3 minutes until the bottom is golden brown, then flip and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in small pieces, along with minced garlic and chopped parsley. Cook for an additional minute until the chicken is cooked through and infused with garlic flavor.
- Serve the chicken bites immediately, and for an extra layer of flavor, consider squeezing half a lemon over the top before serving.
Ingredients
- Approximately 3 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- All-purpose flour (enough to coat the chicken pieces)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or 1/2 tsp each of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- About 3/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter (1 tablespoon initially and 2 tablespoons for finishing)
- Fresh garlic (use fresh for best flavor)
- Fresh parsley (can double for more herb flavor)
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1182 | Calories from Fat: 567 | Fat: 63g | Saturated Fat: 27g | Cholesterol: 453mg | Sodium: 1266mg | Potassium: 2352mg | Carbohydrates: 24g | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 3g | Protein: 126g | Vitamin A: 3726IU | Vitamin C: 54mg | Calcium: 162mg | Iron: 6mg
FAQ
- Can I substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs in this recipe?
- Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead. Opt for boneless, skinless thighs and trim any visible fat. You may need to cook them for about an additional minute.
- What can I serve with Garlic Butter Chicken Bites for a quick meal?
- To keep it quick, pair the chicken bites with lemon couscous, a lemony or parmesan pasta, no-knead bread, or sautéed or steamed vegetables like asparagus, carrots, or broccoli.
- Is it necessary to use fresh garlic in this recipe?
- Yes, fresh garlic is essential for achieving the best flavor in this dish. Avoid using pre-minced or jarred garlic for optimal results.
- What can I do to add extra flavor to the dish?
- To enhance the herb flavor, you can double the amount of parsley used. For an additional layer of flavor, consider squeezing the juice from half a lemon over the dish before serving.
- Can I use a different type of flour if I run out of all-purpose flour?
- Yes, if you’re out of all-purpose flour, bread flour or even cake flour can be used as substitutes in this recipe.
Tips
- Ensure the chicken pieces are thoroughly dried with paper towels before cooking. This helps achieve a better sear and prevents steaming, which can lead to less flavorful chicken bites.
- When adding chicken to the skillet, make sure to leave space between each piece. This promotes browning instead of steaming, leading to a more appetizing texture and flavor.
- If you want to enhance the herb flavor, consider doubling the amount of parsley or adding a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for an extra layer of taste.
- For variation, you can substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs, but remember to cook them for about one minute longer to ensure they’re thoroughly cooked.
Equipment
- 12-inch Non-stick Skillet – Essential for cooking the chicken bites evenly without sticking.
- Meat Thermometer – To ensure the chicken is cooked to the safe internal temperature of 165°F.
