Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Description:
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a rich and flavorful dish that combines juicy chicken, crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside, coated in a luscious garlic butter sauce. Paired with creamy Parmesan pasta, this is a comforting, indulgent meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion!

Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: 2 large (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• Olive oil: 1 tbsp
• Butter: 4 tbsp (divided)
• Garlic (minced): 4 cloves
• Lemon juice: 1 tbsp
• Dried thyme: 1 tsp
• Paprika: ½ tsp
• Salt: ½ tsp
• Black pepper: ¼ tsp
• Fresh parsley (chopped): 2 tbsp (for garnish)

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

• Pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti): 12 oz (340 g)
• Butter: 2 tbsp
• Heavy cream: 1 cup (240 ml)
• Chicken broth: ½ cup (120 ml)
• Parmesan cheese (freshly grated): 1 cup (100 g)
• Garlic (minced): 2 cloves
• Salt: To taste
• Black pepper: To taste
• Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken Bites

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken pieces with paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, lemon juice, and chicken broth to the pan. Stir until the butter is melted and the mixture starts to simmer.
4. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter sauce.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

1. In a separate pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring until well combined.
4. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
5. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the sauce and toss to coat, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water if needed to adjust the consistency.

Step 5: Serve

1. Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta, topping it with the garlic butter chicken bites.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

Tips for Success:

• Cook the chicken in batches: If you have a lot of chicken, cook it in two batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet, ensuring a nice crisp on the outside.
• Creamy texture: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little pasta water or more cream to reach your desired consistency.
• Extra flavor: For added flavor, toss the chicken with a little extra lemon zest or a dash of red pepper flakes for heat before serving.

Recommendations:

• Serving Suggestions: Pair this dish with a simple green salad and garlic bread to complete the meal.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore the sauce.
• Variation: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to the pasta for extra flavor and texture.

Nutrition (Per Serving, based on 4 servings):

• Calories: ~650
• Protein: 35 g
• Fat: 38 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Sugar: 4 g
• Fiber: 3 g

Enjoy the ultimate comfort dish of Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta!