Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
A delightful comfort food featuring tender chicken bites and al dente pasta enveloped in a rich creamy Parmesan sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
For the Base
- 1.5 lbs 1 ½ lbs (680g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces Substitute chicken breast with thighs for extra juiciness.
- 2 tbsp 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp 4 tbsp butter, divided
- 4 cloves 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp ½ tsp salt Adjust according to taste.
- ½ tsp ½ tsp black pepper Adjust according to taste.
- ¼ tsp ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat) Adjust according to heat preference.
For the Sauce
- 12 oz 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti) For a healthier option, use whole grain or gluten-free pasta.
- 2 tbsp 2 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1.5 cups 1 ½ cups (360ml) heavy cream Can substitute with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative.
- 1 cup 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese Nutritional yeast can be used for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
- ½ tsp ½ tsp salt Adjust according to taste.
- ½ tsp ½ tsp black pepper Adjust according to taste.
To Serve
- ¼ cup ¼ cup (15g) chopped fresh parsley (for garnish) Garnish before serving for freshness.
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Boil the pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cooking 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.
- The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
Adding Garlic
- Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if desired) to the skillet.
- Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Making the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- 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.
Combining 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.
Serving
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot. Enjoy the creamy, garlicky goodness!
Notes
Garnish with microgreens for an elevated plating. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the flavors just before serving. Consider pairing with roasted vegetables for a complete meal experience.