Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
A rich and creamy dish combining tender garlic butter chicken bites on a bed of Parmesan-infused pasta, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 600kcal
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley, for garnish
For the Pasta
- 8 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/4 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or linguine pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Remember to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.
Sear the Chicken Bites
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the seasoned chicken and sear until golden brown, about 5 to 6 minutes. Add the butter and minced garlic, stirring until fragrant.
Make the Creamy Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat, add the minced garlic, and sauté for 30 seconds. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Toss in the drained pasta, adding reserved pasta water as needed to adjust sauce consistency.
Assemble & Serve
- Nestle the garlic butter chicken bites atop the creamy pasta, garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan if desired, and serve.
Notes
Feel free to swap chicken for shrimp or tofu, add sautéed vegetables, or use different cheeses for variations. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge and reheated with added cream or pasta water.