Description
Indulge in Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta, a one-pan recipe that’s rich, flavorful, and quick to prepare. This dish combines tender chicken, creamy Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta for the ultimate comfort meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
3 tablespoons butter, divided
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
8 ounces pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season chicken with paprika, salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if using).
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Add 1 tablespoon butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken in garlic butter. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
- In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat.
- Add heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Bring to a simmer.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce until evenly coated.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Plate the pasta and top with garlic butter chicken bites. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Notes
Substitute shrimp for chicken or add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for variations.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, reheating in a skillet with a splash of cream. Avoid microwaving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 560 kcal
