If you’ve been searching for a delicious, comforting meal that’s both quick and incredibly satisfying, this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Spaghetti Recipe is exactly what your weeknight dinners have been missing. Picture tender, juicy chicken bites kissed with a buttery garlic sauce, perfectly tossed with al dente spaghetti, a hint of lemon brightness, and fresh parsley—all coming together in one pan for ease and exceptional flavor. It’s simple yet packed with personality, and I promise once you try it, it’ll become a fast favorite in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly simple but each plays a crucial role in building those wonderful flavors and textures that make this dish so irresistible. From the herbs that infuse the chicken to the rich garlic butter sauce that coats every strand of spaghetti, every item is thoughtfully included to elevate the final plate.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and perfect tender bites.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Adds a fragrant herbaceous touch that complements the garlic beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the dish.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Provides a subtle heat and depth.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the chicken to a golden finish without sticking.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: The heart of the sauce, bringing richness and that signature buttery silkiness.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Bursts of pungent, aromatic garlic that make this dish unforgettable.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A slight kick for those who want a touch of warmth.
- 8 ounces spaghetti: The perfect pasta to cradle the garlicky sauce and tender chicken.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty complexity and helps bring everything together.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: A fresh green note that brightens both flavor and appearance.
- Juice of ½ lemon: Cuts through the richness with a splash of vibrant acidity.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil—this is crucial for seasoning the pasta from the start. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions for a perfect al dente bite. Once done, drain and set it aside, ready to be tossed in that luscious garlic butter sauce later on.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, grab your bite-sized chicken pieces and season them well with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the chicken, letting it sear undisturbed for a few minutes before turning. Continue cooking until each piece is golden brown and cooked through, which usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. This step locks in juiciness and adds delicious texture.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
After the chicken is cooked, push it to the side of your skillet and reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter, minced garlic, and if you like a little heat, the red pepper flakes. Stir everything together and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and soft but not browned—this aromatic moment is where the dish truly starts to sing.
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
Now, toss the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet with the chicken and garlic butter. Give it a good toss to ensure every strand and bite is coated in that rich, flavorful sauce. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, then finish with a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice. The cheese melts slightly and integrates beautifully while the parsley and lemon keep the flavors fresh and balanced.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
This dish is best enjoyed fresh off the stove when the sauce is silky and the chicken is at its juiciest. Plate up your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Spaghetti Recipe and, if you desire, add an extra sprinkle of Parmesan on top for that inviting, cheesy finish.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
For an added pop of color and burst of flavor, garnish with more fresh parsley and a light drizzle of good-quality olive oil. Some freshly cracked black pepper or a few shavings of Parmesan cheese on top also elevate the presentation and taste.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with bright, simple sides like a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or steamed vegetables such as broccoli or green beans. Roasted cherry tomatoes or sautéed spinach can also add a vibrant veggie boost without competing with the main flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, serve the chicken bites and spaghetti twirled into nests on individual plates and garnish with microgreens or edible flowers. Alternatively, layer the chicken and pasta in a shallow bowl and surround it with wedges of lemon, inviting guests to add fresh acidity as they prefer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The garlic butter sauce keeps the chicken and pasta moist, but you may want to add a splash of olive oil or broth when reheating to maintain that silky texture.
Freezing
This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Spaghetti Recipe freezes well for up to 2 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave to preserve the best flavors and texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers over low to medium heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently and adding a little bit of olive oil, butter, or water to loosen the sauce if it’s thickened. This method ensures the chicken stays tender and the sauce creamy without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Absolutely! Using chicken thighs can add an extra layer of juiciness and flavor since they tend to be more forgiving during cooking. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed to ensure they are cooked through.
Is there a substitute for Parmesan cheese?
Yes, you can swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper, saltier twist, or even a good-quality Asiago. Nutritional yeast is also a great option if you want a dairy-free alternative with that cheesy vibe.
Can I add vegetables to the recipe?
Definitely! Steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, or roasted cherry tomatoes are fantastic additions that bring color, nutrition, and an extra layer of flavor to complement the garlic butter chicken and spaghetti.
How spicy is this dish with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth, not overwhelming heat—just enough to give the dish a subtle kick. You can adjust the amount or leave them out entirely if you prefer a milder flavor.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Spaghetti is ideal because it’s long and thin, allowing it to absorb the flavorful garlic butter sauce easily. However, feel free to use other pastas like linguine, fettuccine, or even penne if that’s what you have on hand.
Final Thoughts
There is something so comforting and downright delicious about this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Spaghetti Recipe that makes it a go-to dinner for busy evenings or anytime you crave something indulgent yet easy. The blend of tender chicken, garlicky butter, and fresh lemon is a true crowd-pleaser everyone will enjoy. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your meal plan!
Print
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Spaghetti is a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner featuring tender chicken breast pieces seared to golden perfection and tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce with al dente spaghetti. Finished with Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and a hint of lemon juice, this American-inspired main course offers a perfect balance of protein and comforting pasta for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Cooking and Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Pasta and Garnish
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Juice of ½ lemon
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set aside for later.
- Season the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, season the bite-sized chicken pieces evenly with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to infuse the meat with flavor before cooking.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and fully cooked through. Push the chicken to one side of the skillet to make room for the sauce.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes to the empty side of the skillet. Sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned, allowing the butter to absorb the garlic and spice flavors.
- Toss Pasta and Chicken Together: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss everything together thoroughly so the pasta is coated with the garlic butter sauce and mixed with the chicken pieces.
- Finish and Garnish: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the dish. Mix well and serve immediately. Optionally, sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top before serving for added flavor.
Notes
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts for a juicier texture.
- Add steamed broccoli, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for a vegetable boost and added nutrition.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the level of spiciness.
- For a lighter version, use reduced-fat butter or less Parmesan cheese.
