Introduction
Imagine juicy, golden-brown chicken bites bathed in garlic butter, nestled in a bed of creamy, dreamy pasta. Sound like heaven? That’s because it is! Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Pasta is the ultimate comfort food: rich, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes. It’s a one-pan wonder that brings restaurant-quality taste right to your dinner table with minimal effort.
Here’s a fun fact: this recipe was inspired by a late-night kitchen experiment gone deliciously right. A craving for something savory and satisfying led to pan-seared chicken tossed with garlic, finished with a swirl of cream and parmesan, and served over pasta. One bite, and it became a family favorite.

This dish stands out not just for its taste, but for its simplicity. Whether you’re cooking for picky kids, a partner with gourmet taste, or just yourself after a long day, this recipe checks all the boxes. Think of it as a cozy upgrade to your favorite Alfredo or a richer twist on a basic chicken pasta.
If you loved our Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta, you’ll fall head over heels for this one. Let’s dive in and make your kitchen smell amazing!
What is Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Pasta?
Okay, let’s break it down: garlic, butter, chicken, pasta… what’s not to love? But what exactly is this dish? It’s a playful name for a decadent combination of bite-sized chicken pieces seared to golden perfection in garlic butter, then tossed with a creamy pasta sauce that clings to every noodle like it was meant to be.
Ever wonder why we call it “bites” and not just chicken? Because every piece is juicy and snackable—you might eat half straight out of the pan! And that creamy pasta? Pure indulgence. They say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, but this dish wins over everyone.
So what are you waiting for? Give this recipe a try, and see how quickly it disappears from plates (and pans).
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Pasta
1. Flavor That Wows: From the first sizzle of garlic in butter to the velvety finish of the creamy pasta, this dish delivers bold, savory flavors in every bite. The chicken is perfectly seasoned and seared, locking in all the juicy goodness.
2. Budget-Friendly Comfort: Forget takeout! You can whip up this meal at home using pantry staples and save big. Chicken breast, pasta, garlic, cream—it’s everything you likely already have on hand. It tastes gourmet but costs a fraction of eating out.
3. Toppings and Twists: Add crispy bacon, sprinkle fresh parsley, or top with a handful of shredded parmesan—this dish is easy to customize. Try it once, and you’ll be back for variations!
If you’re a fan of our Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, this dish is a must-try. It’s rich, less spicy, and ultra comforting.

Ready to make dinner a little more delicious?
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Pasta
Quick Overview
This recipe is easy, quick, and satisfying. You’ll be cooking everything in one skillet, which makes cleanup a breeze. Prep time is just 10 minutes, cook time about 20. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a hot, creamy dish that’s full of garlic flavor and cheesy goodness.
Key Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Pasta
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine work great)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil a large pot of salted water and cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken
Pat chicken pieces dry and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer and cook until golden brown and cooked through (about 6-7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce
Pour in chicken broth and stir, scraping up the brown bits. Let it simmer for 2 minutes. Add cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Add Parmesan
Stir in grated parmesan until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Combine Chicken and Pasta
Return cooked chicken to the pan. Add pasta and toss to coat. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Top with fresh parsley and extra parmesan if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
What to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Pasta With
This dish is filling on its own, but if you’re planning a full meal, consider these sides:
- Garlic Bread – because more garlic is always a good idea.
- Steamed Broccoli – adds a fresh, healthy crunch.
- Mixed Green Salad – for a light, crisp contrast to the creamy pasta.
- White Wine or Sparkling Water – complements the richness beautifully.
Top Tips for Perfecting Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Pasta

- Use Fresh Garlic: Skip the jarred kind for best flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Bite-size means fast cooking. Pull it from the pan as soon as it’s golden.
- Reserve Pasta Water: A splash helps adjust sauce consistency without diluting flavor.
- Upgrade the Cheese: Try pecorino romano or a parmesan blend for more depth.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for heat.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Storing:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheating:
Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of cream or milk to rehydrate the sauce. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Freezing:
Freeze individual portions in airtight containers. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating as above.

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Pasta: 5 Irresistible Reasons to Try It
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner, Pasta, Chicken
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Description
Imagine juicy, golden-brown chicken bites bathed in garlic butter, nestled in a bed of creamy, dreamy pasta. Sound like heaven? That’s because it is! Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Pasta is the ultimate comfort food: rich, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes. It’s a one-pan wonder that brings restaurant-quality taste right to your dinner table with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine work great)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil a large pot of salted water and cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken
Pat chicken pieces dry and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer and cook until golden brown and cooked through (about 6-7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce
Pour in chicken broth and stir, scraping up the brown bits. Let it simmer for 2 minutes. Add cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Add Parmesan
Stir in grated parmesan until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Combine Chicken and Pasta
Return cooked chicken to the pan. Add pasta and toss to coat. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Top with fresh parsley and extra parmesan if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!