Description
This creamy Parmesan pasta is comfort food at its finest. The velvety sauce is loaded with garlic, Parmesan, and a touch of cream, perfectly paired with juicy, golden chicken bites sautéed in a rich garlic butter. A quick, easy, and utterly satisfying dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 oz (225 g) fettuccine or spaghetti
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional, for thinning the sauce)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
Cook pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside. - Prepare the Chicken Bites:
- Season the chicken pieces with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, toss to coat in the garlic butter, and remove from heat.
- Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water or chicken broth a tablespoon at a time to reach your desired consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Serve:
- Toss the cooked pasta in the creamy Parmesan sauce until well coated.
- Serve the pasta topped with the garlic butter chicken bites. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan, if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine to the sauce before adding the cream.
- You can substitute heavy cream with evaporated milk or a mix of milk and cream cheese for a lighter option.
- This dish pairs well with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.