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Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe

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  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Description

This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe combines tender, bite-sized chicken cooked in garlic butter with a luscious creamy Parmesan pasta sauce. Ready in just 35 minutes, this comforting dish balances rich flavors with simple ingredients, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.


Ingredients

For the Chicken Bites

  • 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Pasta and Sauce

  • 8 oz (225g) pasta of your choice (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped


Instructions

  1. Cook the Chicken Bites: Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with paprika, onion powder, chili flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked.
  2. Sauté Garlic with Chicken: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the minced garlic. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  4. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt completely into the sauce. Add the nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
  6. Return Chicken to the Skillet: Return the chicken bites to the skillet and mix until combined with the pasta and sauce.
  7. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. Pair with garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, increase or omit the chili flakes according to preference.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for best melting and flavor.
  • Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce thickness as needed.
  • Chicken can be substituted with turkey or tofu for variation.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.