Garlic Butter Chicken Bites With Penne And Cheese

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Penne and Cheese is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, rich garlic butter sauce, and creamy cheese. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Its versatility means you can serve it for weeknight dinners or special occasions, making it a go-to favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish can be made in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The garlic butter sauce infuses every bite with deliciousness that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Cheesy Goodness: A generous amount of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese creates a creamy texture that complements the chicken perfectly.
• Family-Friendly: With its appealing flavors and textures, this dish is sure to please kids and adults alike.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap the chicken for turkey or add vegetables for an even heartier meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Penne and Cheese, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will help ensure that your cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Cooking spoon
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling the penne pasta evenly.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing the chicken and making the garlic butter sauce without burning.
• Cooking spoon: Helps in mixing ingredients thoroughly for even flavor distribution.
• Colander: Efficiently drains water from the cooked pasta without losing any pieces.

Ingredients

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Penne and Cheese features simple yet flavorful ingredients that come together beautifully.

For the Chicken

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

For the Pasta

• 12 oz penne pasta

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

For the Cheese Mixture

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites With Penne And Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta using a colander and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

1. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Add minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing until fragrant (about 1 minute).
3. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, cooking until golden brown and fully cooked through (about 5–7 minutes).

Step 3: Combine Everything Together

1. Reduce heat to low, then add cooked penne pasta directly into the skillet with chicken.
2. Stir in mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving hot.

Enjoy this comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Bites With Penne And Cheese

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Penne and Cheese is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Consider these serving suggestions to make the most of this comforting meal.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers tossed in a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken bites.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing adds a nice crunch to balance the dish.

Add Some Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from the chicken bites.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft, fluffy rolls are great for mopping up the cheesy goodness.

Serve with Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrients while providing a slight bitterness to contrast the rich flavors.
• Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus spears roasted until tender make a delicious side that pairs well with the dish.

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Bites With Penne And Cheese

Perfecting your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Penne and Cheese can elevate this dish from good to great. Here are some essential tips to consider.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs enhance flavor significantly compared to dried versions.
• Don’t Overcook Chicken: Cook your chicken just until golden brown; overcooking makes it dry.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Save a cup of pasta water before draining; it can help adjust sauce consistency if needed.
• Mix Cheeses for Depth: Combining mozzarella with Parmesan provides both creaminess and a sharp flavor profile.
• Garnish Before Serving: Fresh parsley or basil not only adds color but also freshness to the final dish.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites With Penne And Cheese

Pairing side dishes with Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Penne and Cheese can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that brings additional garlic flavor and crunchy texture.
2. Mixed Green Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad balances out the richness of the main dish.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted to perfection offer both health benefits and vibrant colors on your plate.
4. Creamy Coleslaw: A cool, creamy slaw provides a pleasant contrast in texture and temperature.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled with butter adds a delightful sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory chicken bites.
6. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy potatoes topped with butter or sour cream provide comfort alongside this hearty meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the chicken can lead to less flavor. Ensure you let the chicken sit in the garlic butter mixture for at least 30 minutes.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Overcooked penne can become mushy. Follow package instructions closely and cook until al dente for best results.
• Ignoring Cheese Types: Using the wrong cheese can alter the dish’s texture and flavor. Stick with mozzarella and Parmesan to achieve that creamy, cheesy goodness.
• Not Prepping Ingredients: Failing to prep all ingredients beforehand can slow down your cooking process. Chop, measure, and set everything out before you start cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let the dish cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken Bites With Penne And Cheese

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Portion into smaller containers for easier reheating.

Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken Bites With Penne And Cheese

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between each, until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Garlic Butter Chicken Bites With Penne And Cheese?
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Penne and Cheese is a comforting dish featuring tender chicken cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce served over cheesy penne pasta.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to reheat.

What can I substitute for chicken?
You can use turkey or even beef as alternatives if you’re looking for different protein options while still keeping the flavors intact.

How spicy is this dish?
The recipe is not inherently spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you prefer some heat!

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Penne and Cheese is a delightful meal that offers both comfort and satisfaction. It’s versatile too—feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices. Give it a try tonight!

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Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Penne and Cheese

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• Author: Valeria
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Penne and Cheese is a comforting and delicious dish that perfectly combines tender chicken, a rich garlic butter sauce, and creamy cheese over al dente penne pasta. This easy-to-make recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family. The harmonious blend of flavors ensures that every bite is satisfying and indulgent, while its versatility allows for various protein swaps or veggie additions to suit your preferences. Serve this delightful meal with a side salad or garlic bread for an unforgettable dining experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Add chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until golden brown and fully cooked through.
4. Reduce heat to low, then stir in the cooked penne pasta along with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving hot.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: Feel free to substitute chicken with turkey or beef for variations. Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition. Save some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.