Description
This garlic butter chicken bites with creamy parmesan pasta recipe is a dream for pasta lovers! Juicy, golden-brown chicken bites are tossed in a rich, garlicky butter sauce and served over a luscious, cheesy parmesan pasta. It’s an easy, one-pan meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes!
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Ingredients
Scale
For the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¾ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ cup spinach (optional, for added greens)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil water in a large pot and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
- In a bowl, season the chicken with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.
- Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
- Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- In the same pan, melt 1 tablespoon butter and add garlic. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, then stir in parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Let simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Stir in cooked pasta and mix well. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water for a creamier texture.
- (Optional) Add spinach and cook until wilted.
Step 4: Combine & Serve
- Return the garlic butter chicken bites to the pan and mix with the pasta.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra parmesan cheese.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Don’t Overcook the Chicken – Cook just until golden and juicy.
Use Freshly Grated Parmesan – It melts better into the sauce.
Thin the Sauce if Needed – Add pasta water for a smoother consistency.