Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
For the Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb 450g boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 oz 225g pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne work well)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Bites
- Season the chicken: In a mixing bowl, toss the chicken pieces with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Add the garlic butter: Lower the heat, push the chicken to one side of the skillet, and melt the butter. Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Toss the chicken in the garlic butter to coat evenly, then remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- Sauté the garlic: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the cream: Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Melt the Parmesan: Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add the red pepper flakes if you want a little heat.
- Adjust the consistency: If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Toss the pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy Parmesan sauce, tossing to coat every strand in the rich, cheesy goodness.
- Top with chicken: Arrange the garlic butter chicken bites on top of the pasta. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.