Description
This indulgent dish pairs juicy, golden chicken bites with a luscious creamy Parmesan pasta. Perfect for dinner, it’s a hearty, flavorful meal that will satisfy any craving!
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:
- 1 ½ lbs (680g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp butter, divided
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 ½ cups (360ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ cup (15g) chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta:
Boil the pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Cook the Chicken Bites:
Heat olive oil and 2 tbsp of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken pieces and season with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if desired), and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3️⃣ Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until aromatic.
Pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4️⃣ Combine the Pasta and Chicken:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy Parmesan sauce until evenly coated.
Return the chicken bites to the skillet and stir to combine with the pasta and sauce.
5️⃣ Serve:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot. Enjoy the creamy, garlicky goodness!
Notes
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version, but note that the sauce will be less rich.
- Use rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken for an even quicker meal.
- Add vegetables like spinach, peas, or broccoli for extra color and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4