Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
A cozy dish of crispy garlic-infused chicken paired with rich, creamy pasta that transforms a simple dinner into a cherished family tradition.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Bites
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces Choose free-range chicken for better flavor.
- 1 teaspoon seasoning salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter Let come to room temperature for easier mixing.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic is recommended.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes Optional for heat.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley For garnish.
For the Pasta
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti) Feel free to use gluten-free pasta if needed.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream Substitute with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
- ½ cup whole milk
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese Use freshly grated for better taste.
- ½ teaspoon seasoning salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes Optional.
- ½ cup reserved pasta water Use if needed to adjust sauce consistency.
Instructions
Preparation
- 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, drain the pasta, and set aside.
- Season the chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with seasoning salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder until well coated.
Cooking
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring constantly to combine.
- Add seasoning salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Slowly incorporate Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and combined.
- Add the drained pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
- Simmer for 2 minutes to absorb flavors.
- Return chicken to the skillet, stirring gently to combine.
Serving
- Finish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese before serving.
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Avoid overcrowding the pan with chicken to ensure it gets a beautiful golden crust.