Herb Garlic Chicken Bites with Creamy Cheesy Penne Pasta

Do you want a delicious meal that is easy to make and full of flavor? Herb Garlic Chicken Bites with Creamy Cheesy Penne Pasta is the perfect dish for you. It’s comforting, satisfying, and loved by both kids and adults.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is great for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests. The combination of tender chicken bites and creamy pasta makes every bite delightful. Plus, it doesn’t take long to prepare, so you can spend more time with your family instead of in the kitchen.

How to Make Herb Garlic Chicken Bites with Creamy Cheesy Penne Pasta

Making Herb Garlic Chicken Bites with Creamy Cheesy Penne Pasta is simple. Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Penne pasta
  • Cream cheese
  • Grated cheese (e.g., Parmesan or mozzarella)
  • Heavy cream
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  3. Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs; add to the skillet.
  4. Cook until chicken is browned and cooked through.
  5. In a separate pot, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions.
  6. In a bowl, mix cooked pasta with cream cheese, grated cheese, and heavy cream; heat until combined and creamy.
  7. Serve chicken bites over the creamy pasta and garnish with fresh parsley.

How to Serve Herb Garlic Chicken Bites with Creamy Cheesy Penne Pasta

Serve the chicken bites on top of the creamy penne pasta. You can add extra grated cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a beautiful touch. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some garlic bread.

How to Store Herb Garlic Chicken Bites with Creamy Cheesy Penne Pasta

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave before serving.

Tips to Make Herb Garlic Chicken Bites with Creamy Cheesy Penne Pasta

  • Make sure the chicken is cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
  • Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic and herbs to your taste.
  • For a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes when cooking the chicken.

Variation

You can easily change this recipe by using different types of pasta like fettuccine or rotini. You can also swap chicken for shrimp or add some veggies, like spinach or bell peppers, for extra nutrition.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and pasta in advance. Just reheat them when you’re ready to eat.

2. What can I use if I don’t have cream cheese?
You can use sour cream or a different cheese spread instead of cream cheese for a slightly different flavor.

3. How can I make this recipe healthier?
You can use whole wheat pasta and low-fat cheese. Adding more vegetables also makes it healthier without losing taste.