Description
Enjoy a comforting and flavorful dinner with these Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites paired perfectly with Creamy Parmesan Pasta. Tender chicken pieces are cooked in garlic butter and topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, served alongside pasta coated in a rich and creamy Parmesan sauce. This dish is perfect for a satisfying meal any night of the week.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Bites
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- 8 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, then season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add Garlic Butter and Cheese: Reduce the heat to low, then add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken. Stir continuously until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken. Cover the skillet briefly to allow the cheese to melt, about 2-3 minutes.
- Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce: In a separate pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer on low heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Continue cooking and stirring regularly until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the cream sauce and toss well to coat all the pasta evenly with the sauce.
- Serve: Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta and top it with the cheesy garlic butter chicken bites. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately for best flavor.
Notes
- Substitute chicken thighs instead of breasts for extra juiciness and flavor.
- For a balanced meal, add steamed broccoli or spinach to the pasta along with the sauce.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a smoother, richer sauce texture.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your spiciness preference or omit if not desired.
