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Tender Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Creamy Parmesan Pasta Delight

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This tender garlic butter chicken bites and creamy Parmesan pasta dish combines golden, juicy chicken with rich, velvety pasta for a comforting, restaurant-quality meal at home. It’s quick, flavorful, and indulgent—perfect for any night of the week.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp butter, divided
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
  • 12 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, or fettuccine)
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth or reserved pasta water
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, drain, and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear until golden and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  3. Add remaining butter to the skillet. Sauté garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  4. Pour in chicken broth or pasta water and bring to a simmer.
  5. Add heavy cream and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.
  6. Whisk in Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  7. Toss in cooked pasta, adding more pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
  8. Return chicken to the skillet and toss to coat evenly.
  9. Sprinkle with parsley and optional red pepper flakes. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for best results.
  • Add veggies like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition.
  • For a lighter version, use milk instead of cream.
  • Swap chicken with shrimp for a delicious variation.
  • Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream to maintain sauce consistency.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/tender-garlic-butter-chicken-bites-creamy-parmesan-pasta-delight/