Step-by-Step Instructions:
1️⃣ Sear the Chicken Bites:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the butter. Let it melt and start to bubble.
2️⃣ Season and Cook the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the pan. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
3️⃣ Add Garlic and Lemon:
Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, making sure it doesn’t burn. Finish with a splash of lemon juice and toss everything to coat. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley.
4️⃣ Cook the Linguine:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package directions until al dente. Drain and reserve ½ cup of pasta water.
5️⃣ Make the Parmesan Sauce:
In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let it thicken slightly, about 3–4 minutes.
6️⃣ Add Cheese and Seasonings:
Stir in the Parmesan cheese and garlic powder. Mix until smooth and creamy. If too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce.
7️⃣ Combine with Pasta:
Return the drained linguine to the pot and toss well to coat in the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8️⃣ Garnish and Serve:
Top with fresh basil or parsley and serve alongside your garlic butter chicken bites.
Pro Tips for Success:
- Cut Chicken Evenly: Uniform chicken pieces cook evenly and stay juicy.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Sear in batches if needed to get a nice golden crust.
- Cheese Matters: Use fresh grated Parmesan for the smoothest, richest sauce.
- Save That Pasta Water: It’s liquid gold for adjusting sauce texture.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine:
- Restaurant Quality at Home: Impressive flavor without complicated steps.
- Family Favorite: Comforting, cheesy pasta + garlicky chicken = instant hit.
- Easy but Elegant: Great for quick dinners or special occasions alike.
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.):
- Calories: 620
- Protein: 42g
- Carbs: 45g
- Fat: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
FAQ About Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Linguine:
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Thighs are extra juicy and flavorful—just trim excess fat before cooking.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
It’s best fresh, but you can prep the sauce earlier and reheat gently with added pasta water.
Is this good for meal prep?
Definitely. Store chicken and pasta separately and reheat with a splash of cream or water.
Common Problems and Fixes:
Sauce too thick?
Add a bit more pasta water or cream to thin it out.
Pasta clumping?
Toss pasta with a tiny drizzle of olive oil after draining if you’re not combining right away.
Garlic burning?
Add garlic after the chicken is mostly cooked—sauté just until fragrant.
Flavor Variations You Can Try:
- Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken.
- Lemon Herb: Add lemon zest and extra herbs for a bright, fresh finish.
- Mushroom Cream Pasta: Stir sautéed mushrooms into the pasta sauce for earthy depth.
Perfect for Any Occasion:
Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner, a cozy Sunday meal, or date night at home, this Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Linguine brings bold flavor, comfort, and just the right amount of indulgence.
Success with Savory Garlic Butter Chicken & Pasta:
Simple ingredients. Rich flavors. One skillet and one pot. You’ll make this meal once and crave it forever. Serve it up hot and watch the compliments roll in!
Made it? Snap a photo and tag us—show off your savory garlic-parmesan masterpiece!
