Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

If you’re looking for a dish that wraps comfort and indulgence into one neat package, look no further than Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta. This delightful meal comes together effortlessly, boasting golden-brown chicken morsels tossed in a buttery garlic sauce, paired with velvety pasta coated in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s bound to be a hit with family and friends. The combination of flavors invites everyone to the table, making it not just a meal, but a meal to remember.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward yet impressive. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like a culinary superstar—a warm hug on a plate that everyone will adore. Get ready to savor the satisfying blend of garlic, butter, chicken, and pasta that takes comfort food to the next level!

This is what the finished dish looks like when perfectly baked.

Ingredients

• 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)
• 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)

Gather all the ingredients for a complete and satisfying meal.

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Chicken:
   Season the chicken pieces with paprika, salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if using).

3. Cook the Chicken:
   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.

4. Add Garlic:
   Add 1 tablespoon of butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken in the garlic butter, then remove the chicken and set it aside.

5. 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 to a simmer.

6. Add Parmesan Cheese:
   Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Adjust the consistency with the reserved pasta water.

7. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
   Toss the cooked pasta in the creamy sauce until evenly coated.

8. Assemble the Dish:
   Plate the pasta and top it with the garlic butter chicken bites. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Ingredient Substitutions: You can easily swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter sauce; alternatively, use a dairy-free cream for a vegan version.
• Optional Variations: Mix in fresh vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added color and nutrition.
• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.

Recipe Information

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty level: Easy

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Enjoy this delightful dish featuring tender chicken bites and creamy pasta!