This dish is a quick, indulgent, all-in-one meal featuring tender, savory Garlic Butter Chicken Bites served over a rich and velvety Creamy Parmesan Pasta that cooks right in the skillet.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Bites
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How To Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
Step 1: Season Chicken: Season the chicken bites with salt, black pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon paprika.
Step 2: Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken bites and cook, flipping occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Make Creamy Parmesan Pasta: Pour the chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the penne pasta and dried Italian seasoning. Cover the skillet and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Pasta: Add the cooked chicken bites back to the skillet and stir to combine. Gradually stir in the 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and smooth. Taste and add salt/pepper as needed.
Step 6: Serve: Serve warm immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.