Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with sun-dried tomatoes is a hearty, flavorful meal that’s sure to impress your family or dinner guests. If you're looking for a dinner recipe that is packed with flavor yet easy to make, then this one is perfect for you. The combination of tender chicken bites, aromatic garlic, and rich butter creates an irresistible sauce that complements the pasta perfectly. Follow along with this recipe for the most mouthwatering Garlic Butter Chicken Bites you've ever tried! Be sure to read the entire article for expert tips, substitutions, and variations to customize this dish.

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What Are Garlic Butter Chicken Bites?

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are bite-sized pieces of tender chicken tenderloins that are cooked in a rich and savory garlic butter sauce. The dish is complemented by sun-dried tomatoes, shredded mozzarella cheese, and a creamy half-and-half sauce. The juicy chicken is seasoned with paprika and salt, giving it a subtle warmth, while the garlic butter brings out a deep, rich flavor that infuses the entire dish. This recipe also pairs well with penne pasta, allowing the creamy sauce to cling to each piece, making every bite delicious.

Ingredients List for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• 8 oz penne pasta: Penne pasta works best for this recipe as it holds the sauce well, but feel free to use any pasta of your choice.
• 1 lb chicken tenderloins, sliced: Chicken tenderloins are the star of this dish. Slice them into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and maximum flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: To season the chicken and enhance the overall flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon paprika: Adds a mild, earthy spice to the chicken bites.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic is essential to the rich butter sauce and adds a punch of flavor.
• 4 oz sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: These bring a slightly tangy and sweet flavor to the dish, balancing the richness of the butter.
• 2 tablespoon olive oil: Used to sauté the chicken and garlic for a perfect golden sear.
• 1 cup half-and-half (or ½ cup cream + ½ cup milk): The base of the creamy sauce, creating a luscious texture.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: For extra creaminess and that delightful cheesy pull.
• 1 tablespoon dried basil: To add an aromatic herbal note that complements the garlic and chicken.
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Optional, but these add a nice touch of heat to balance the creaminess.
• ¼ teaspoon salt (plus more to taste): To season the sauce as needed.
• ½ cup reserved pasta cooking water: Helps to loosen the sauce and bind it to the pasta.

Substitutions and Variations

This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites recipe is versatile, and there are several substitutions and variations you can try based on your dietary preferences or available ingredients.

• Chicken substitute: If you're not a fan of chicken, you can easily swap it with shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Shrimp works well with the garlic butter sauce, while tofu absorbs the flavors beautifully.
• Pasta alternative: If you’re looking to lower the carbs, consider using zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of pasta. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also be used.
• Dairy-free option: For a dairy-free version, replace the half-and-half with a non-dairy cream or coconut milk. You can also use a dairy-free cheese alternative like cashew-based mozzarella.
• Extra vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables to this dish such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. These can add more nutrients and color to your meal.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now, let's dive into the detailed steps on how to cook Garlic Butter Chicken Bites.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. This will make the cooking process smoother and faster. Mince your garlic, chop the sun-dried tomatoes, and slice the chicken tenderloins into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Before draining, remember to reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water. Set the cooked pasta aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with ¼ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of paprika. Sauté the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until fragrant. Then, stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Add the half-and-half (or cream and milk mixture) and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the mozzarella cheese, dried basil, and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce cook for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Combine the Ingredients

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, and stir to coat it with the sauce. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the reserved pasta cooking water. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more salt, red pepper flakes, or basil depending on your preference.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is relatively straightforward, there are a few common mistakes you’ll want to avoid:

• Overcooking the chicken: Chicken tenderloins cook quickly, so be careful not to overcook them, as this can result in dry, tough meat.
• Burning the garlic: Garlic cooks quickly and can burn easily. Make sure to sauté it on medium heat and for only a short amount of time to avoid bitterness.
• Skipping the pasta water: Don’t forget to reserve the pasta water. It helps emulsify the sauce, making it smoother and more cohesive.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is key when serving any dish. For Garlic Butter Chicken Bites, you can garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra red pepper flakes for a pop of color and flavor. Arrange the chicken bites and pasta in a shallow dish or large plate to showcase the creamy sauce and tender chicken.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

This dish is best served immediately while the sauce is still creamy and the chicken is tender. Pair it with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette also makes for a delicious accompaniment, allowing you to scoop up every bit of that flavorful sauce.

Presentation Ideas for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

For a restaurant-quality presentation, arrange the pasta in the center of the plate, then place the chicken bites on top. Drizzle a bit of extra sauce around the plate and sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a burst of color. You can also grate some fresh Parmesan cheese over the dish for a finishing touch.

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe Tips

• Use freshly minced garlic: Fresh garlic provides the best flavor. Pre-minced garlic in a jar can sometimes have a slightly off taste.
• Cook pasta to al dente: Pasta that is cooked to al dente will hold up better when tossed in the sauce and won’t become mushy.
• Warm the half-and-half: Gently warming the half-and-half before adding it to the skillet can help prevent curdling.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the pasta fresh and toss it all together right before serving to maintain the best texture.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of tenderloins?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more richness and flavor to the dish, though they may take a few minutes longer to cook.

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap out the pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with penne pasta is a delicious and versatile dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. The recipe is simple to make, loaded with flavor, and offers plenty of opportunities to customize it to your liking. Whether you stick to the original or try out one of the suggested variations, this recipe will bring a restaurant-quality meal to your table. So, grab your ingredients and give it a try tonight!

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