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Are you searching for a meal that encapsulates a delightful balance of flavors and textures while still being quick to prepare? Look no further than Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta. This dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a comforting option that fits seamlessly into our busy lives, catering to both the time-crunched parent and the ambitious home chef.

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Indulge in this delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish features tender chicken bites sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce, served over creamy fettuccine pasta. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful meal that the whole family will love. Top it off with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan for an irresistible finish. Enjoy a comforting and satisfying dish tonight!

Ingredients
  

For the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:

1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

8 ounces fettuccine or your favorite pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup spinach leaves (optional)

Additional Parmesan cheese and crushed red pepper for serving (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta:

    - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.

      Prepare the Chicken:

        - In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.

          - Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

            Sauté the Chicken:

              - Add chicken bites to the skillet, season with smoked paprika, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.

                - Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

                  - Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

                    Make the Creamy Sauce:

                      - In the same skillet, add olive oil and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.

                        - Once melted, pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

                          - Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and garlic powder until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.

                            Combine Everything:

                              - Add the cooked pasta to the creamy sauce, tossing to coat evenly.

                                - If using, stir in fresh spinach and let it wilt slightly in the warm pasta. Add the cooked chicken bites back into the pan and gently mix everything together. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

                                  Serve:

                                    - Plate the pasta topped with the garlic butter chicken bites.

                                      - Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper adds a nice kick!

                                        Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4