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+ servings
Benjamin

Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Garlic Butter Chicken Bites – Easy Recipe

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate comfort food. Juicy, seasoned chicken bites are pan-seared to golden perfection and paired with a velvety Parmesan sauce over tender pasta. It’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for any night of the week!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Bites:
  • 1 pound chicken breast or thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
  • 8 ounces pasta fettuccine, linguine, or penne
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped (optional, for garnish)

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Pasta
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
  3. Season and Cook the Chicken
  4. Toss the chicken pieces with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  5. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  6. Add the chicken and cook for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  7. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
  8. In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  9. Prepare the Parmesan Sauce
  10. In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute.
  11. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
  12. Stir in the heavy cream and gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth.
  13. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
  14. Combine and Serve
  15. Add the cooked pasta to the Parmesan sauce and toss until fully coated.
  16. Return the chicken bites to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce and stir to coat evenly.
  17. Serve the pasta on plates, topped with the garlic butter chicken bites. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

  • Chicken Options: Boneless chicken thighs are an excellent alternative to chicken breasts for a juicier result.
  • Cheese Choice: Always use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or broth to refresh the sauce.
  • Customizations: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

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