Description
This dish features juicy, golden-brown garlic butter chicken bites served over a rich and creamy Parmesan pasta. The combination of tender chicken, savory garlic, and a luscious cheese sauce makes this a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:
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2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon paprika
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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3 tablespoons unsalted butter
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
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8 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup heavy cream
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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½ teaspoon salt
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
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½ cup reserved pasta water (as needed)
Instructions
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Cook the Pasta:
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions.
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Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
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Prepare the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:
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In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.
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Reduce heat to low, add butter and minced garlic, stirring to coat the chicken. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
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Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese.
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Make the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
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In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds.
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Pour in heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir and let it simmer for 2 minutes.
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Add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
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Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach the desired consistency.
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Assemble and Serve:
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Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta and top with the garlic butter chicken bites.
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Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and parsley.
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Serve warm and enjoy!
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Notes
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For extra flavor, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken before serving.
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Swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter version.
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Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for an even quicker meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Sautéing, Boiling
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired