Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
A comforting dish combining succulent chicken bites in a rich garlic butter sauce paired with creamy, cheesy pasta.
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 646kcal
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts Tender pieces that absorb delicious flavors.
- 2 tbsp olive oil Helps to sear the chicken beautifully.
- 1 tbsp butter Elevates the richness of the dish.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Infused flavor throughout the chicken.
- 1/2 tsp paprika Provides warmth and color.
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning Classic herb blend that complements the flavors.
- to taste salt & pepper Essential for enhancing flavor.
- for garnish chopped parsley A fresh touch to enhance the dish.
For the Pasta
- 8 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta Perfect for creamy sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (for pasta sauce) Extra garlic for intense flavor.
- 1 1/4 cups heavy cream Base for the luxurious creamy sauce.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds cheesiness to the sauce.
- to taste salt & black pepper For well-rounded seasoning.
- a pinch nutmeg (optional) Enhances creaminess.
Instructions
Boil the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or linguine and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
Cook the Chicken
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and cook the chicken pieces for about 5-6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Add butter and minced garlic, stirring for a minute until fragrant. Remove chicken from skillet.
Make the Creamy Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp of butter. Add extra minced garlic and cook for around 30 seconds.
- Pour in the heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese, along with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
Combine the Pasta and Sauce
- Once the sauce has thickened, add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. If too thick, add reserved pasta water.
Serve and Garnish
- Top the creamy pasta with the garlic butter chicken and garnish with parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Notes
Let minced garlic sit for a few minutes before cooking for enhanced flavor. Optional extras include red pepper flakes for a kick. Avoid overcrowding chicken in the skillet for better cooking.