Tender, juicy chicken bites coated in garlic butter pair perfectly with a rich and creamy Parmesan pasta. This dish is quick, indulgent, and perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Bites:
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 12 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter version)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 1/4 cups grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Cook pasta according to the package instructions in salted water. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken Bites
- In a bowl, toss the chicken with paprika, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce for Chicken
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and let it melt. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Toss the cooked chicken back into the skillet to coat with the garlic butter sauce. Remove from heat and keep warm.
Step 4: Make the Parmesan Sauce for Pasta
- In a clean skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Sprinkle in the flour, stirring constantly to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and chicken broth, cooking until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Toss the cooked pasta into the creamy Parmesan sauce, mixing until fully coated.
Step 6: Serve
- Plate the creamy pasta and top with the garlic butter chicken bites. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan, if desired.
Tips
- For added flavor, squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over the chicken before serving.
- Use penne or linguine pasta for a fun twist.
- Add sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Hashtags for Sharing
#GarlicButterChicken #CreamyParmesanPasta #ComfortFoodGoals #WeeknightDinnerIdeas #EasyChickenRecipes #PastaLovers #FoodieFavorites #QuickAndDelicious #DinnerTimeJoy