Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

• 1½ lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-size pieces

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp onion powder

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 3 tbsp butter

• 5 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley (optional, but cute)

Creamy Parmesan Pasta

• 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or linguine)

• 2 tbsp butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ¾ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

• ½ tsp Italian seasoning

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• Optional: red pepper flakes

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Boil pasta in well-salted water until al dente.

• Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.

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2. Make the Chicken Bites

1. Season chicken with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

3. Add chicken in a single layer—cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden.

4. Lower heat to medium, add butter and minced garlic.

5. Stir for 30–60 seconds until fragrant and coated.

6. Remove chicken from pan and set aside.

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3. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

2. Add garlic and sauté 30 seconds.

3. Pour in heavy cream; simmer 2–3 minutes.

4. Stir in parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

5. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time until silky.

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4. Combine

• Toss pasta in the sauce until coated.

• Add chicken bites back in (or serve on top—chef’s choice).

• Garnish with parsley and extra parmesan.