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I created these Buttery Garlic Chicken Chunks with Parmesan Cream Pasta during a night when I wanted something that felt fancy but comforting. It's turned into the meal my family begs for most. There's something almost magical about those juicy, golden chicken bits coated in garlicky butter sitting on top of that rich, creamy pasta that makes every bite incredible.
What Makes Us Come Back For More
The best thing about this meal is how it brings restaurant-quality comfort straight to our dinner table. I can throw it together on hectic weeknights and still feel like I've made something really impressive. The mix of butter, garlic and Parmesan creates such amazing flavors that nobody can resist grabbing another helping.
Your Shopping List
- Chicken Breasts: One pound diced into small, bite-sized chunks.
- Olive Oil: Just what you need for that perfect golden-brown sear.
- Butter: Unsalted works best so we can add salt to taste.
- Garlic: Six fat cloves finely chopped.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper and Italian herbs blend to boost flavor.
- Parsley: Adds a pop of green and fresh taste.
- Pasta: Fettuccine works great for grabbing all that delicious sauce.
- Heavy Cream: Creates that velvety smooth texture.
- Chicken Broth: Adds richness and savory notes.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated makes all the difference.
- More Garlic Butter: Because sometimes extra is exactly what you need.
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Cooking Steps Breakdown
- Pasta Preparation
- Fill a big pot with well-salted water and cook your pasta until it's just right then drain and set it aside for when we need it later.
- Making Crispy Chicken
- Heat your largest skillet with some olive oil then add those seasoned chicken pieces and let them turn beautifully golden brown.
- Creating Flavor Magic
- Drop in your butter and minced garlic and let your kitchen fill with the most amazing smell you can imagine.
- Whipping Up The Sauce
- Melt more butter with fresh garlic then pour in cream and broth before stirring in hand-grated Parmesan until everything turns into a smooth silky sauce.
- Final Assembly
- Mix your cooked pasta into the creamy sauce then top with those buttery garlic chicken pieces for the ultimate comfort meal.
Dishing It Out
Serve this beauty right away while everything's hot and the sauce is perfectly smooth. We like having a simple green salad alongside for some freshness. Don't forget that final touch of garlic butter drizzled on top and a sprinkle of chopped parsley to make it look as good as it tastes.
Storing The Extras
Any leftovers will stay good in the fridge for a couple days. Just warm it up slowly either in a pan on low heat or with short bursts in the microwave. The sauce stays nice and creamy as long as you heat it gently without rushing.
Switch Things Up
I sometimes use whatever pasta shapes I've got in my cupboard. You can swap the chicken for shrimp when you want something different. A bit of fresh lemon juice really brightens everything, and we often add some red pepper flakes when we want a touch of heat.
Kitchen Tricks
I've learned that taking time to grate Parmesan yourself really changes how the sauce turns out. Adding just a tiny bit of lemon at the very end really does lift all the flavors, just like they teach in cooking school.
Get Ahead Tips
When I know we've got a crazy evening coming up, I often get things ready earlier in the day. The chicken and sauce can be made and kept in the fridge separately. Then just boil fresh pasta and warm everything up when you're ready to eat.
Great Companions
This meal tastes even better with a cold glass of white wine or some sparkling water with a lemon wedge. We can't resist having some crusty garlic bread for soaking up extra sauce, and a simple Caesar salad brings a nice crunch to balance the creaminess.
Fan Favorite Features
There's a reason this has become my go-to dish. It's easy enough for regular weeknights but fancy enough when friends come over. The combo of that rich, creamy pasta with those flavorful chicken pieces just makes everyone feel completely satisfied.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I swap the pasta shape?
- Absolutely, any type works. Go for spaghetti, penne, or even bow ties. Just cook until slightly firm, as directed on the package.
- → What to use instead of heavy cream?
- Half-and-half or whole milk will work but won't be as rich. For the creamiest result, stick with heavy cream for the sauce.
- → Can I prep this in advance?
- It's best fresh, but you can make parts ahead. Warm the sauce gently when serving and add a splash of broth or cream to get the right texture back.
- → How to keep the sauce intact?
- Use medium-low heat for the cream sauce and keep whisking constantly. After adding the cheese, don't let it boil to avoid splitting.
- → Can I switch to chicken thighs?
- Totally. Boneless thighs stay juicy and taste great. Just chop them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.