Description
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Spaghetti is a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner combining tender chicken pieces seared to golden perfection with al dente spaghetti tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley. The addition of lemon juice adds a bright, zesty finish, making it a comforting yet fresh dish perfect for any day.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Pasta
- 8 oz spaghetti
- Salt for pasta water
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water for later use.
- Season the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, season the bite-sized chicken pieces evenly with salt, black pepper, and paprika to develop flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of butter and the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken pieces, cooking them for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Garlic: Reduce the skillet heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt. Add red pepper flakes if using, and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti back into the skillet along with the reserved pasta water, tossing to coat the noodles evenly in the garlic butter sauce.
- Add Cheese and Herbs: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, fresh lemon juice, and chopped parsley to the skillet, mixing well to incorporate all flavors.
- Combine Chicken and Pasta: Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet and toss everything together until the chicken is reheated and everything is well combined.
- Serve: Plate immediately and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- For enhanced flavor, substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs which stay juicier.
- Add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for a nutritious boost.
- Leftovers reheat well; add a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
