For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup pasta water (reserved from cooking pasta)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- Before draining, reserve ½ cup of pasta water for the sauce. Set pasta aside.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
- In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with paprika, salt, black pepper, and onion powder.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken bites and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium, add butter, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes, and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, toss to coat in the garlic butter sauce, then remove from heat and cover to keep warm.
3. Make the Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stir, and let it simmer for 2 minutes.
- Add parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper, stirring until smooth.
- Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce, adding pasta water as needed for creaminess.
4. Assemble & Serve
- Plate the creamy parmesan pasta and top with garlic butter chicken bites.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra parmesan cheese.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Expert Tips for the Best Flavor
✅ Use Fresh Parmesan – Pre-grated cheese won’t melt as smoothly.
✅ Don’t Overcook the Chicken – Keep it juicy by searing at high heat.
✅ Adjust the Sauce – Add more pasta water for a thinner sauce or extra cheese for thickness.
✅ Spice it Up – Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cajun seasoning for a kick!
Serving Suggestions
🥗 Pair with a Fresh Salad – A side of Caesar salad or garlic bread makes it even better.
🍷 Wine Pairing – A glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a quick, indulgent meal that’s perfect for busy nights. The combination of tender chicken, rich garlic butter, and creamy parmesan pasta makes it a family favorite. Try it tonight, and let me know how it turns out!
