Crispy Chicken Bites on Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

This Crispy Chicken Bites on Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta recipe is one of my favorite comfort meals. Juicy golden chicken pieces tossed with perfectly cooked pasta in a rich, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce — it’s hearty, satisfying, and comes together in just one pan. I love how it balances crispy textures with creamy decadence.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this dish because it’s simple yet indulgent. The garlic and Parmesan flavor combo never fails, and the creamy sauce clings to the pasta beautifully. The chicken bites are quick to pan-fry and stay juicy inside with a golden crust outside. Whether I’m cooking for guests or making a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe always hits the spot with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 300g pasta (penne or spaghetti)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. I start by cooking the pasta according to the package directions. Once it’s al dente, I drain it and set it aside.
2. While the pasta is cooking, I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. I season the chicken pieces with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. I cook the chicken in the skillet for about 6–7 minutes until the pieces are golden and fully cooked through. Then I remove them from the pan and set them aside.
4. In the same skillet, I add the minced garlic and sauté it for 1–2 minutes until it becomes fragrant.
5. I pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer, stirring frequently to avoid scorching.
6. I stir in the Parmesan cheese and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Once the sauce is creamy and smooth, I toss in the cooked pasta and chicken bites, mixing everything well to coat.
8. I garnish the dish with chopped fresh parsley before serving it hot.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 3–4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Sometimes I add a handful of spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for a pop of color and extra flavor.
• When I want extra crunch, I coat the chicken in a light flour or panko layer before pan-frying.
• For a spicy twist, I sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• I can easily swap the cream for half-and-half or even whole milk, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When I reheat it, I usually do so gently in a pan with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. The microwave works too — I just cover the dish and heat in short intervals, stirring in between to keep the sauce smooth.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, I like using penne or spaghetti, but fettuccine, rigatoni, or even fusilli work great in this creamy sauce.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If I’m looking for a lighter option, I use half-and-half or whole milk with a teaspoon of flour whisked in to help thicken the sauce.

How do I make the chicken even crispier?

I sometimes toss the chicken pieces in seasoned flour or panko breadcrumbs before frying. This gives them a satisfying crunchy crust.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

I prefer serving it fresh, but I can prep the chicken and sauce earlier in the day. When reheating, I just add a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to life.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely. I divide the pasta and chicken into portions and store them in meal prep containers. It’s easy to reheat and still tastes delicious the next day.

Conclusion

This Crispy Chicken Bites on Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is my go-to when I want something cozy and flavorful with minimal effort. The crispy chicken and creamy, cheesy sauce are a perfect match, and the whole dish comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s easy, satisfying, and always a hit at my table.

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