Description
Succulent garlic butter chicken bites with creamy parmesan pasta combine Mediterranean flavors in one delightful meal. Herb-infused chicken nestles perfectly alongside silky pasta, delivering comfort that pulls you into a culinary embrace.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Fats and Oils:
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) butter
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil
Seasonings and Herbs:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water, season generously with salt, and bring to a rolling boil. Cook pasta according to package timing until al dente, then drain and reserve.
- Cut chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces. Season thoroughly with paprika, Italian herbs, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until butter becomes foamy. Carefully arrange chicken pieces in a single layer, ensuring space between each piece.
- Sear chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, developing a golden-brown exterior. Cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer chicken to a separate plate.
- Reduce skillet heat to medium-low. Add remaining butter and minced garlic, stirring quickly to prevent burning. Sauté for 45-60 seconds until aromatic.
- Pour chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet. Whisk continuously to create a smooth base. Gradually incorporate Parmesan cheese, stirring until sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
- Season sauce with additional salt, cracked black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and sauce to reduce slightly.
- Introduce cooked pasta into the creamy sauce, gently tossing to ensure complete coating. Carefully fold in seared chicken bites.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately while hot, presenting directly from the skillet for maximum visual appeal.
Notes
- Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for tender, quick-cooking protein that absorbs flavors beautifully.
- Toast Italian seasoning briefly in the pan before adding chicken to enhance its aromatic depth and release more complex flavors.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt, reducing overall calorie content without sacrificing creaminess.
- Customize heat levels by adjusting red pepper flakes – start with a pinch for mild warmth or increase for spice lovers seeking extra kick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 2880 mg
- Fat: 38 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 24 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0.2 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 140 mg