Ingredients
For the Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 ounces pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken pieces with paprika, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes.
- Heat 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Add 1 tablespoon butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken in garlic butter.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- In the same skillet, heat the remaining butter and olive oil over medium heat.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
- Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until smooth and creamy.
- If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy Parmesan sauce.
- Toss well to coat the pasta evenly.
5. Assemble the Dish
- Serve the creamy Parmesan pasta topped with garlic butter chicken bites.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Notes
- Lighter Option: Use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream.
- Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Increase chili flakes or add a pinch of cayenne.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.
- Extra Cheesy: Add shredded mozzarella or a sprinkle of Pecorino Romano.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Comfort Food, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired, American
