Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
600kcal
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)
For the Pasta
- 8 ounces pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Sauce
- 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)
For Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional) for garnish
Method
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 the chicken bites with paprika, salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if using).
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Add 1 tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic to the skillet and stir to coat the chicken in the garlic butter.
- Remove the chicken and set aside.
Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
- Add the heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
- Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Adjust the consistency of the sauce with the reserved pasta water, if needed.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce until evenly coated.
Assemble the Dish
- Plate the pasta and top it with the garlic butter chicken bites.
- Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Nutrition
Serving1gCalories600kcalCarbohydrates70gProtein35gFat20gSaturated Fat10gSodium800mgFiber2gSugar3g
Notes
Ingredient Substitutions: You can use any type of pasta you prefer, including whole-wheat or gluten-free options. For a lighter version, consider using chicken breast instead of thighs. Optional Variations: Add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition. You can also swap Parmesan cheese for Pecorino Romano for a bolder flavor. Storage or Reheating Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.