🧄 Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients
For the Chicken Bites:
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1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 tsp paprika
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1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
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3–4 cloves garlic, minced
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2–3 tbsp butter
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1 tbsp olive oil
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Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
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8 oz (225g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite)
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2 tbsp butter
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup heavy cream
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1/2 cup milk
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1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Optional: red pepper flakes or lemon zest for brightness
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
2. Prepare the Chicken Bites
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Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter over medium-high heat.
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Add chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
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Add minced garlic and remaining butter in the last 1–2 minutes of cooking. Stir to coat the chicken in the garlic butter.
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Remove chicken and set aside. Don’t wipe the skillet—you’ll use the flavor left behind.
3. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
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In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add 2 tbsp butter and garlic. Sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
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Stir in cream and milk. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
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Add Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring until melted and smooth.
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Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes or lemon zest.
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Add pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. If too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
4. Combine and Serve
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Return the garlic butter chicken bites to the skillet and toss gently with the pasta.
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Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan.