Cheesy Chicken Bites and Spaghetti in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Cheesy Chicken Bites and Spaghetti in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is one of those heartwarming dishes that can transform an ordinary weeknight into something special. Having whipped this up many times for my family and friends, I’ve discovered that it strikes the perfect balance between comfort and gourmet flair. It’s creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, making it a go-to recipe that satisfies even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s quick to make, which is always a win for busy evenings!
Why make this recipe
Why you’ll love this dish
This recipe stands out not only for its incredible taste but also for its convenience. With minimal preparation and cooking time, you can whip this up in about 30 minutes — making it an ideal choice for weekday dinners or even last-minute gatherings. The crispy, seasoned chicken bites paired with al dente spaghetti coated in a rich garlic Parmesan sauce create a dish that feels indulgent without requiring hours in the kitchen.
"This dish has become a staple in our home! It’s quick to prepare and always disappears within minutes. The cheese sauce is just perfection!" — A happy home cook
How to make Cheesy Chicken Bites and Spaghetti in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Step-by-step overview
Creating this delightful dish is straightforward. First, you’ll cook the spaghetti and prepare the chicken bites with aromatic seasonings. Then you’ll whip up a luscious garlic Parmesan sauce that coats everything beautifully. Through a few simple steps, you’ll have a comforting meal that everyone will love.
What you’ll need
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water (as needed)
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (optional garnish)
Substitution tips: You can easily swap the chicken for shrimp or keep it vegetarian by using mushrooms!
Directions
Step-by-step instructions
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Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions, then reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining and setting it aside.
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Season the chicken pieces with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper.
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In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 4–5 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
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Lower the heat to medium. Add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant.
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Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, allowing it to come to a gentle simmer.
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Stir in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and full of cheesy goodness.
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Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss until every strand is coated with the garlic Parmesan sauce. If it’s too thick, use reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
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Return the cheesy chicken bites to the skillet, mixing everything together. Let it simmer for another 1–2 minutes for the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions, then serve immediately!
How to serve Cheesy Chicken Bites and Spaghetti in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Best ways to enjoy it
Plating this dish is half the fun! Serve it in shallow bowls to show off that creamy sauce. A sprinkle of parsley or green onions adds a touch of freshness. Pair it with a simple side salad or some garlic bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. For a wine pairing, a crisp white like a Sauvignon Blanc perfectly complements the dish.
How to store
Keeping leftovers fresh
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce.
Tips to make
Helpful cooking tips
-Ensure you don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken for a perfect sear. Cooking in batches allows the chicken to caramelize nicely.
- Reserve that pasta water! It’s a secret weapon for adjusting sauce thickness and adds flavor.
Variations
Creative twists
Don’t be afraid to get creative with this recipe! Try adding sun-dried tomatoes or spinach for a pop of color and flavor. For a little zest, a squeeze of lemon juice before serving elevates it to another level. You can also play around with different cheeses — Gruyère or Asiago can provide a unique touch!
FAQs
Your questions answered
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half for a lighter version, or a non-dairy option like coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply swap the spaghetti for gluten-free pasta, and you’ll have a delicious alternative that everyone can enjoy!
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, but keep in mind the texture may change slightly after freezing. Store in an airtight container and consume within 3 months for best quality. To reheat, thaw in the fridge before warming on the stove.
This Cheesy Chicken Bites and Spaghetti in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience waiting to happen in your kitchen! Enjoy the process and, of course, the delicious results.
Cheesy Chicken Bites and Spaghetti in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Ingredients
Method
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions, then reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining and setting it aside.
- Season the chicken pieces with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 4–5 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Lower the heat to medium. Add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, allowing it to come to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and full of cheesy goodness.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss until every strand is coated with the garlic Parmesan sauce. If it’s too thick, use reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Return the cheesy chicken bites to the skillet, mixing everything together. Let it simmer for another 1–2 minutes for the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions, then serve immediately!
