Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta and Spinach Recipe

Introduction:

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta and Spinach is a comforting, flavorful meal that brings together tender chicken, rich pasta, and fresh spinach. The garlic butter chicken provides a savory depth of flavor, while the creamy parmesan pasta adds a silky smooth texture. This dish is a great way to enjoy a hearty dinner that is both satisfying and packed with delicious flavors.

Ingredients:

For the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

• 8 oz (225g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti work well)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water for later use.

2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken bites to the skillet and season them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through, stirring occasionally. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Return the cooked chicken bites to the skillet and toss them in the garlic butter sauce for 1-2 minutes to coat the chicken evenly. Remove from the heat and set aside.

4. Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:

In a separate skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the heavy cream to the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally and cook for 2-3 minutes until the cream has slightly thickened. Gradually add the grated parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the spinach to the sauce and cook for 1-2 minutes until it wilts. If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

5. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:

Add the drained pasta to the creamy parmesan sauce and toss until the pasta is well coated. Add the garlic butter chicken bites on top of the pasta and gently stir everything together. Garnish with fresh parsley and basil (if using).

6. Serve:

Serve the garlic butter chicken bites with creamy parmesan pasta and spinach immediately. Enjoy with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal!

Optional Variations:

• Add more veggies: You can add more vegetables like roasted bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the pasta for extra flavor and texture.
• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a little heat if you like spicy dishes.
• Cheesy: For a cheesier sauce, add more parmesan or a bit of mozzarella cheese to the sauce.

Benefits of Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta and Spinach:

• High in protein: The chicken provides a lean source of protein to help build and repair muscle.
• Rich in calcium: Parmesan cheese and heavy cream both contribute to a good amount of calcium, essential for bone health.
• Packed with greens: The spinach in the creamy pasta adds vitamins and minerals, like Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and iron, enhancing the nutritional value of the dish.
• Satisfying and indulgent: The creamy sauce and garlic butter chicken make for a rich, comforting meal that’s perfect for special occasions or cozy dinners.

Nutrition Information (per serving):

(Approximate, based on 1 serving)

• Calories: 650-750 kcal
• Fat: 40g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Cholesterol: 130mg
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 900mg

Conclusion:

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta and Spinach is a delightful and satisfying meal that combines savory chicken, rich pasta, and vibrant spinach in a creamy, flavorful sauce. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to please everyone. The garlic butter chicken and creamy parmesan sauce create a mouthwatering combination that’s hard to resist. Serve it with your favorite side, and you have a complete meal that’s indulgent and comforting.

For Chicken and Pasta Lovers:

If you love a rich, cheesy pasta dish with tender chicken, this recipe is a must-try. The garlic butter chicken pairs beautifully with the creamy, cheesy pasta and fresh spinach, making it a complete, satisfying meal. Whether you’re feeding a family or enjoying a quiet dinner for two, this dish is sure to become a new favorite!

Enjoy your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta and Spinach!