Description
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a delicious and comforting one-pan meal featuring juicy chicken bites tossed in garlic butter and served over creamy, cheesy pasta. It’s a quick, easy, and flavorful dinner perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Chicken Bites:
- 1 1/2 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
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 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 1/2 cups (360ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
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Cook the Pasta:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
-
Cook the Chicken Bites:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tbsp butter over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces, 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 using), cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Remove the chicken bites from the skillet and set aside.
-
Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer, then add the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Combine with Pasta and Chicken:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy Parmesan sauce until fully coated.
- Return the chicken bites to the skillet, stirring to combine with the pasta and sauce.
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Serve:
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot. Enjoy!
Notes
- Add veggies: Stir in steamed broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Make it spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.