Chicken Bites

 

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

Ingredients

For the Chicken Bites:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons butter

3 cloves garlic, minced

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite)

4 tablespoons butter

3 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning

½ cup pasta water (reserved)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:

1. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package directions.

2. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

2. Prepare the Chicken Bites:

1. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

3. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.

4. Reduce heat to medium, add butter, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using), and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

2. Add garlic and cook until fragrant (30 seconds to 1 minute).

3. Pour in heavy cream and stir well. Simmer for 2 minutes.

4. Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let it cook until thickened (2-3 minutes).

5. Add the drained pasta and a little reserved pasta water, stirring until well coated.

4. Serve:

Plate the creamy pasta and top it with garlic butter chicken bites.

Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.

Serve immediately and enjoy!