Description

Indulge in Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta, a rich and satisfying meal featuring tender, seared chicken in a buttery garlic sauce over luscious, parmesan-infused pasta. Perfect for weeknights and entertaining guests alike!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken Bites:

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

8 ounces pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup reserved pasta water
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Bites

In a bowl, season chicken with paprika, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Toss to coat evenly.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
Reduce heat to low, add butter and minced garlic, stirring for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and cover to keep warm.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain pasta and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Pour in heavy cream, stirring continuously. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Gradually add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
Add salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Adjust seasoning as needed.
Pour in reserved pasta water gradually until desired sauce consistency is reached.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Add drained pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
Plate pasta and top with garlic butter chicken bites.
Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

For a spicier dish, add extra red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
Substitute chicken with shrimp or salmon for variety.
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter option.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-American

Keywords: Garlic butter chicken, creamy parmesan pasta, easy chicken dinner, weeknight meal, indulgent pasta