Description
Succulent Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta dance with rich, savory flavors that promise comfort and indulgence. Crispy chicken morsels nestled in silky pasta create a meal that beckons you to savor each delectable bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (cubed)
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
Cooking and Sauce Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 ounces (226 grams) pasta
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare pasta according to package guidelines, ensuring al dente texture. Drain thoroughly and reserve.
- Heat olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium-high temperature. Season chicken cubes with paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Sauté chicken pieces for 6-8 minutes, rotating occasionally to achieve uniform golden-brown exterior and complete internal cooking.
- Lower heat, introduce 2 tablespoons butter and finely chopped garlic, simmering until aromatic and releasing intense fragrance (approximately 1-2 minutes).
- Transfer golden chicken to a separate plate, maintaining warmth and juiciness.
- Within the identical skillet, melt remaining butter, then incorporate heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Whisk continuously until sauce reaches smooth, velvety consistency (roughly 3-4 minutes).
- Gently fold cooked pasta into creamy sauce, ensuring complete coating and even distribution.
- Layer garlic-infused chicken bites atop pasta, creating an appetizing presentation.
- Optional: If sauce appears too dense, incorporate a small amount of reserved pasta water to achieve desired creamy texture.
- Finish by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley for vibrant color and enhanced flavor. Serve immediately while piping hot.
Notes
- Swap chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version, ensuring similar golden-brown texture by pressing and marinating plant-based protein beforehand.
- Use gluten-free pasta and ensure paprika is certified gluten-free to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Create a lighter version by replacing heavy cream with Greek yogurt or half-and-half, which maintains creaminess while reducing overall calories.
- Control salt content by using low-sodium chicken broth or unsalted butter, especially helpful for individuals monitoring sodium intake.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 555 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 37 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg