Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

3 tablespoons butter, divided

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

8 ounces pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 cups heavy cream

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Season the chicken pieces with paprika, salt, pepper, and chili flakes if using.

Step 3: Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 4: Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 5: Add 1 tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic to the skillet, stirring to coat the chicken in garlic butter. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 6: In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat.

Step 7: Pour in the heavy cream and add garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg if using. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 8: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth. Adjust the sauce consistency by adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed.

Step 9: Toss the cooked pasta in the creamy Parmesan sauce until evenly coated.

Step 10: Plate the pasta and top with the garlic butter chicken bites. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

Use chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful bites if you prefer.

Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the sauce for a brightness that balances the richness.

Swap regular Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper cheese flavor.

For a lighter version, substitute half the heavy cream with milk.

If you like heat, increase the chili flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, this recipe works well with most pasta types like fettuccine, penne, or even spaghetti. Choose your favorite shape and cook it al dente according to package directions.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Cooking times vary slightly depending on the size of the pieces, but 5-7 minutes usually suffices for bite-sized chicken.