Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings: 4

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Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon parsley (chopped, for garnish)

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

• 8 ounces penne pasta (or any pasta of your choice)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions.
• Drain, reserve 1/4 cup pasta water, and set aside.

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2. Prepare the Chicken Bites

1. Season the Chicken:
   • Season the chicken pieces with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter:
   • In the same skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
   • Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
   • Return the chicken bites to the skillet and toss to coat them in the garlic butter.
   • Sprinkle with chopped parsley for garnish. Transfer the chicken to a plate and keep warm.

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3. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter with 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Add the Italian seasoning, then gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

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4. Combine Pasta and Sauce

• Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy Parmesan sauce.
• If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

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5. Serve

• Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta and top with the garlic butter chicken bites.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy and Quick: Ready in under 40 minutes.
• Rich and Flavorful: Creamy Parmesan sauce combined with buttery garlic chicken is irresistible.
• Family-Friendly: A perfect weeknight meal everyone will love.

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Tips for Success

1. Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best melt and flavor (avoid pre-shredded cheese).
2. Cook the chicken in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the pan.
3. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat if you like spice.

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This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is comfort food at its finest—easy, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying! 🍽️