I appreciate this recipe because it uses pantry-friendly ingredients and comes together in under 30 minutes. I like how the chicken is lightly seasoned and pan-fried until golden, adding depth to the creamy sauce. I also enjoy how easily I can customize the dish with greens, herbs, or extra lemon. It’s a cozy, versatile dinner that always feels a little special.
Ingredients
(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)
Creamy Garlic Sauce 1 Tbsp butter 5 cloves garlic, crushed 1 chicken stock cube ½ cup boiling water ½ cup cream ½ cup grated parmesan (50g) Juice of ½ lemon 1 handful fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
I begin by cooking the fettuccine in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the packet instructions. When it’s done, I drain it and set it aside.
I cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and place them in a container. I add the flour, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, tossing until everything is evenly coated.
I heat the oil in a large nonstick frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, I add the chicken and cook it for 5–10 minutes until browned and fully cooked through. I sprinkle ¼ cup of grated Parmesan over the chicken, toss to coat, and cook for another 2 minutes. Then I remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Using the same pan, I melt the butter over medium heat. I add the crushed garlic and cook for about a minute, stirring constantly so it doesn’t burn.
I dissolve the stock cube in the boiling water and pour it into the pan, scraping up all the flavorful browned bits from the bottom. I stir until everything combines.
When the liquid begins to bubble, I pour in the cream and stir again. I let the sauce simmer until it begins to thicken.
I add the cooked fettuccine to the pan, tossing it well so the pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce. I stir in the Parmesan, parsley, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. I season with salt and pepper to taste.
I divide the pasta among four bowls and top each serving with the chicken bites. A little extra parsley on top finishes the dish beautifully.
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves 4 people. Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
I sometimes add baby spinach or peas to the pasta at the end for extra color and nutrients. When I want a spicier version, I add a pinch of chili flakes to the chicken seasoning. I also enjoy swapping fettuccine for linguine or penne depending on what I have. For a brighter flavor, I add extra lemon juice or lemon zest.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When reheating, I warm the pasta gently in a pan over low heat and add a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce. I avoid microwaving for too long because the sauce can separate. The dish tastes best fresh, but leftovers are still enjoyable with a bit of extra liquid stirred in.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes, I often use thighs when I want extra tenderness and flavor.
Why is my sauce too thick?
I add a little extra water or cream to bring it back to a silky consistency.
Can I make this dish ahead?
I prefer serving it fresh, but I can prep the chicken in advance.
Can I use pre-grated Parmesan?
Yes, though I prefer freshly grated for better melting and flavor.
How do I avoid burning the garlic?
I keep the heat moderate and stir constantly for that short cooking time.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, spinach, peas, broccoli, or mushrooms all work well.
Can I make this lighter?
I sometimes use half cream and half milk, accepting a slightly thinner sauce.
What pasta shapes work best?
Fettuccine, linguine, tagliatelle, or even penne all hold the sauce nicely.
Can I stir the chicken into the pasta instead of serving on top?
Yes, I do that when I want everything mixed together.
Can I freeze this dish?
I avoid freezing it because creamy sauces can split when thawed.
Conclusion
I find Creamy Fettuccine with Chicken Bites to be a wonderfully quick and flavorful dinner that brings together tender chicken and a rich garlic-Parmesan sauce. Whether I need a comforting weeknight meal or something satisfying to share, this dish always delivers smooth, creamy goodness in every bite.
