Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients
For the Chicken Bites:
– 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– ½ teaspoon paprika
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
– 8 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your preferred type)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
– 1 cup heavy cream
– ½ cup chicken broth
– 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
—
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken Bites
1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced chicken, seasoning with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Cook for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked.
3. Lower the heat to medium, then add butter and minced garlic, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. Toss the chicken in the garlic-butter mixture.
4. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and mix thoroughly. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until aromatic.
2. Gradually add heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring continuously. Allow the mixture to reach a gentle simmer.
3. Incorporate Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, mixing well to ensure it is evenly coated. Simmer for 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors.
Step 4: Serve
1. Serve the creamy
