Cheesy Chicken Bites and Spaghetti in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, cheesy pasta dish. This recipe for Cheesy Chicken Bites and Spaghetti in Garlic Parmesan Sauce combines tender chicken with perfectly cooked spaghetti, all enveloped in a luscious garlic Parmesan sauce. I often whip this up on busy weeknights when I crave something both hearty and indulgent, yet quick to prepare. It’s a definite crowd-pleaser, loved by kids and adults alike—and truthfully, who can resist that cheesy goodness?
Why You’ll Love This Dish
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. It’s not only quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying—which makes it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a casual get-together or simply need a comforting weeknight meal, this dish delivers.
"This has become my go-to recipe for busy nights! The sauce is creamy, the chicken is juicy, and it’s super easy to make."
Plus, it packs in the flavor without requiring a lengthy ingredient list—perfect for budget-conscious meals! The blend of Italian seasonings adds a delightful twist that elevates this home-cooked goodness.
How This Recipe Comes Together
Preparing Cheesy Chicken Bites and Spaghetti in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a breeze. You’ll start by boiling your spaghetti and seasoning some chicken bites. While the pasta cooks, you’ll cook the chicken to golden perfection. After that, it’s all about creating that dreamy garlic Parmesan sauce, which ties everything together. Finally, you’ll combine the flavors for a dish that tastes gourmet but is simple enough for any home cook.
What You’ll Need
Here’s a helpful list of ingredients you’ll need to gather before you start cooking:
- 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)
Feel free to adjust seasonings or swap out cheeses based on your personal preference!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions. Make sure to reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water before draining.
- While the pasta cooks, season the chicken bites with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add in the seasoned chicken and cook until golden and fully cooked, which should take about 4–5 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and delightful.
- Toss in the cooked spaghetti until it’s fully coated in that irresistible garlic Parmesan sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Return the cheesy chicken bites to the skillet and mix everything together. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes to blend all the flavors beautifully.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley or green onions for a vibrant touch.
How to Plate and Pair
To make your Cheesy Chicken Bites and Spaghetti visually appealing, consider plating it in shallow bowls to showcase the creamy sauce. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions not only adds a pop of color but a fresh flavor contrast as well.
For side dishes, a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette pairs nicely, balancing the richness of the pasta. Garlic bread is another classic side that complements the cheesy goodness of this dish perfectly!
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have leftovers, don’t worry! You can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water to keep the sauce creamy. You can also reheat it in a microwave on medium power, but be sure to stir occasionally for even heating.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Pasta Cooking Tip: Make sure your water is generously salted; this is the only chance to season the spaghetti itself!
- Cheese: For a deeper flavor, you can use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-packaged.
- Creaminess: If you prefer an extra creamy sauce, add more heavy cream gradually while stirring until you reach your desired consistency.
Creative Twists
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can swap the chicken for shrimp for a seafood twist or use zucchini noodles for a lower-carb option. Adding sun-dried tomatoes or spinach can enhance the flavor profile and offer some healthy greens. For an extra kick, consider sprinkling in some red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Your Questions Answered
Q: How long does it take to prepare this dish?
A: The total time, including preparation and cooking, is about 30 minutes.
Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes! Just ensure to thaw it completely before cooking for even cooking and best results.
Q: What can I use instead of heavy cream?
A: You can substitute with whole milk or a plant-based cream option like coconut cream, but the consistency and richness will vary slightly.
Q: Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Just swap out regular spaghetti for gluten-free pasta, and you’re good to go!
This recipe for Cheesy Chicken Bites and Spaghetti in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is truly a household favorite—quick, delightful, and perfect for any occasion! Happy cooking!
