Amazing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites in 15 Mins

Name: Amazing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites in 15 Mins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp smoked paprika; ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat); Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste; 8 oz linguine or your preferred pasta; 2 tbsp butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning; ¼ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained); 1 lb broccolini, trimmed; 1 tbsp olive oil (for broccolini); Salt and pepper, to taste

by Jannet Lisa

20 de August de 2025

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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites have become my absolute go-to for a quick and incredibly satisfying dinner. I remember the first time I tried making them, I was looking for an easy garlic parmesan chicken recipe that wouldn’t take all night, and this one blew me away. The aroma of garlic and Parmesan filling my kitchen, followed by that first bite of tender, juicy chicken coated in a savory sauce – it’s pure comfort! If you’ve ever wondered how to make garlic parmesan chicken bites that are ridiculously flavorful and simple, you’re in the right place. Get ready to impress yourself and anyone you share them with. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites

Incredible taste: Perfectly tender chicken with a savory garlic and Parmesan crust.
Speedy prep: This garlic parmesan chicken recipe comes together in just 15 minutes of prep time!

Family-approved: Even picky eaters will devour these cheesy garlic chicken bites.
Budget-friendly: Uses common ingredients you likely already have on hand.
Versatile meal: Great as a main dish or a fantastic appetizer for parties.

Healthy-ish option: Packed with protein and easily adaptable for lower-carb lifestyles.
Flavorful sauce: The creamy Cajun Alfredo sauce adds a delicious kick to this garlic parmesan chicken recipe.
Easy to follow: This guide makes it simple to achieve perfect results every time.

Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites

Gather these goodies for the most delicious garlic chicken bites with parmesan you’ve ever made:

1.5 lbs chicken breast or thighs – cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking
2 tbsp olive oil – for searing the chicken beautifully

1 tsp garlic powder – the foundation of that garlicky flavor
1 tsp onion powder – adds a subtle savory depth
1 tsp smoked paprika – brings a hint of smokiness and color

½ tsp cayenne pepper – optional, but adds a lovely warmth
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste – essential for bringing out all the flavors
8 oz linguine or your preferred pasta – the perfect base for our chicken

2 tbsp butter – for sautéing the garlic
3 cloves garlic, minced – fresh garlic is key for that punchy flavor
1 cup heavy cream – makes our sauce luxuriously creamy
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – gets wonderfully melty and cheesy

1 tbsp Cajun seasoning – for that signature spicy kick in the sauce
¼ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained) – adds a sweet and tangy burst
1 lb broccolini, trimmed – for a fresh, slightly bitter counterpoint

1 tbsp olive oil – to get the broccolini perfectly charred
Salt and pepper, to taste – for seasoning the broccolini

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites

Let’s get this delicious meal on the table! It’s easier than you think to create these mouthwatering bites.

Step 1: First things first, let’s get that oven ready. Preheat it to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, pat your chicken bites completely dry with paper towels. This is key for getting a good sear. Season them generously with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if you like a little heat!), salt, and black pepper.
Step 2: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a cast-iron skillet or a heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. You want that pan nice and hot!
Step 3: Carefully add the seasoned chicken bites to the hot skillet. Make sure they’re in a single layer; if you have too many, cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. This ensures each piece gets beautifully golden brown and cooked through. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes per batch, until they’re cooked all the way. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 4: While the chicken is searing, get your pasta cooking according to the package directions. Drain it once it’s done, but be sure to reserve about ½ cup of that starchy pasta water – it’s gold for making our sauce extra silky!
Step 5: In a separate nonstick or stainless-steel sauté pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until it’s wonderfully fragrant, which should only take about a minute.
Step 6: Pour in the heavy cream and bring it gently to a simmer. Stir in the Cajun seasoning, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and a bit more salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Reduce the heat to low. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and just starting to thicken. If it seems a little too thick, don’t worry! Just add a splash of that reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. This sauce is what makes our Parmesan crusted chicken bites truly special.
Step 8: Add the seared chicken bites back into the pan with the sauce. Toss them gently to ensure every single bite is coated in that luscious, cheesy goodness. Keep them warm over the lowest heat setting.
Step 9: Now for the broccolini! Toss it with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can either roast it on a sheet pan in the preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until it’s tender-crisp and slightly charred, or get a nice char in a separate hot skillet. This adds a lovely texture to our Parmesan crusted chicken bites.

Step 10: Serve your amazing garlic parmesan chicken bites hot, spooned over the cooked linguine and smothered in that incredible sun-dried tomato Cajun Alfredo sauce. Don’t forget to add a side of the charred broccolini for a complete, satisfying meal. Enjoy these perfectly Parmesan crusted chicken bites!

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Pro Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites

Want to elevate your garlic parmesan chicken? Try these tips for guaranteed success and amazing flavor:

Always pat your chicken completely dry before seasoning. This is crucial for achieving a beautiful sear and preventing steaming.

Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure each piece gets perfectly golden brown and develops that delicious crust.
Add the Parmesan cheese to the sauce off the heat. This prevents it from clumping and ensures a smooth, velvety texture for your garlic parmesan chicken bites.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce along with the Cajun seasoning.

What’s the secret to perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites?

The secret to the best garlic parmesan chicken bites lies in the sear! Patting the chicken dry and cooking it in a hot skillet until golden brown creates a fantastic texture and locks in moisture. The creamy sauce then perfectly coats these flavorful bites. For more tips on achieving the perfect sear, check out this guide on how to cook chicken breast.

Can I make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites ahead of time?

You can definitely prep the chicken bites ahead of time. Season the chicken and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. The sauce can also be made a day in advance and gently reheated.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites?

A common pitfall is overcrowding the pan, which leads to steamed, un-seared chicken. Another issue is overcooking the chicken, which is why people ask, “Why are my garlic parmesan chicken bites dry?” Ensure you cook them in batches and don’t overcook them; they’ll finish cooking in the sauce.

Best Ways to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites

These versatile bites are fantastic for so many occasions! For a weeknight dinner that feels special, serve them over a bed of linguine or your favorite pasta, topped with that irresistible sauce, alongside the charred broccolini. They also make incredible garlic parmesan chicken appetizers for any gathering. Imagine them on a platter with toothpicks, maybe with some ranch or marinara for dipping! For a lighter option, serve them with a fresh side salad or roasted asparagus. They’re truly adaptable for any meal.

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Nutrition Facts for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving for these delicious garlic parmesan chicken bites:

Calories: 650
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Protein: 45g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 700mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. For more information on nutritional tracking, you can consult resources like the USDA FoodData Central.

How to Store and Reheat Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites

Proper storage is key to enjoying your delicious homemade garlic parmesan chicken leftovers. Once the chicken bites have cooled down completely, transfer them to an airtight container. You can store them in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep them for longer, freezing is a great option! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. This makes it super convenient to have a tasty meal ready anytime.

When you’re ready to reheat, the best method for maintaining texture is on the stovetop. Gently warm the chicken bites in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent drying. For a quicker option, you can microwave them, but be sure to heat them in short intervals, stirring halfway, to ensure they don’t become rubbery. The oven is also a good choice for reheating larger batches; simply place them on a baking sheet at around 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites

What are garlic parmesan chicken bites?

Garlic parmesan chicken bites are small, tender pieces of chicken breast or thigh that are seasoned with garlic, often coated in Parmesan cheese, and then cooked until golden and juicy. They’re typically served with a flavorful sauce, like the creamy Cajun Alfredo in this recipe, making them a versatile dish perfect for dinner or as an appetizer.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast for these bites?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are wonderfully forgiving and often stay even more moist than chicken breast. I’ve made these garlic parmesan chicken bites with thighs many times, and they turn out just as delicious. Just make sure to cut them into similar bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

Can these garlic parmesan chicken bites be made gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make these garlic parmesan chicken bites gluten-free! Simply omit the pasta and choose a gluten-free pasta alternative or serve the chicken bites with a side of rice or vegetables. Ensure your Cajun seasoning and any other pre-made ingredients are certified gluten-free as well.

What’s the best way to get a crispy coating on my garlic parmesan chicken bites?

To achieve a slightly crispier coating, you can lightly dredge the seasoned chicken pieces in a tablespoon or two of cornstarch or gluten-free flour before searing them. This helps create a beautiful golden-brown crust on your parmesan garlic chicken bites.

Variations of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic recipe, why not mix things up? There are so many delicious ways to enjoy these flavorful bites! For a healthier twist, try making air fryer garlic parmesan chicken bites. Just follow the seasoning steps, place them in your air fryer basket, and cook at 380°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through. If you prefer an oven-baked method, these become fantastic oven baked garlic parmesan chicken bites. Simply spread the seasoned chicken on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping once, until cooked. You can also play with the flavors by adding a pinch of Italian seasoning or a different spice blend to the chicken coating for a whole new taste experience. These variations ensure you’ll never get bored! For more air fryer chicken bite recipes, check out this collection.