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Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Bites
- Cut the Chicken: Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes. This allows the chicken to cook quickly and evenly.
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. If you like a little heat, you can also add red pepper flakes to the mix.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer.
- Sear the Chicken: Cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Don’t overcrowd the skillet; if necessary, cook the chicken in batches.
- Garlic Butter Sauce: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Deglaze the Pan: Add chicken broth (or white wine) to the skillet and stir to release any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Let the sauce simmer for another 2 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
- Boil the Pasta: While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Creamy Sauce: In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 4: Combine the Chicken and Pasta
- Add the Chicken Back: Once the cream sauce has thickened, return the cooked chicken bites to the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken in the sauce.
- Add the Parmesan: Gradually add the Parmesan cheese to the pan, stirring constantly until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken and creamy sauce. Toss everything together, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce and help it coat the pasta evenly.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish: Serve the creamy chicken and pasta in bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best served hot and fresh. Pair with a simple salad or some garlic bread for the ultimate indulgence.
Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
1. Use Fresh Ingredients
For the best flavor, use fresh garlic and freshly grated Parmesan. Pre-grated Parmesan doesn’t melt as smoothly and may result in a grainier texture for the sauce.
2. Don’t Overcook the Chicken
To keep the chicken tender and juicy, avoid overcooking. Since the chicken will continue to cook slightly in the creamy sauce, it’s best to remove it from the skillet once it’s golden brown and just cooked through.
3. Add Vegetables for Extra Flavor
Feel free to add spinach, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes to the dish for some extra flavor and nutrients. Just toss them in with the chicken bites during the last few minutes of cooking.
4. Customize the Heat
Adjust the red pepper flakes to your preference. For those who enjoy a spicier dish, you can also add a splash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce for an extra kick.
5. Save Some Pasta Water
Before draining your pasta, be sure to reserve a bit of the cooking water. This starchy liquid is perfect for adjusting the consistency of the sauce and helping it cling to the pasta.
Make It Your Own: Variations of Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
While this recipe is already packed with flavor, here are some ways you can customize it further:
1. Add Bacon
For an extra layer of smoky richness, crispy bacon bits can be added to the sauce. Simply cook the bacon in the skillet before cooking the chicken, then crumble and add to the dish at the end.
2. Use Different Pasta
Switch up the type of pasta depending on your preferences. Penne, rigatoni, or linguine are all great options. Even a gluten-free pasta can be used to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
3. Make It Lighter
For a lighter version, replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or a light cream cheese and reduce the amount of butter. You can also substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a lower-calorie alternative.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that combines bold, savory flavors with creamy, rich textures. The garlic butter chicken is perfectly complemented by the indulgent, cheesy pasta, making for a dish that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite.
With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and customizable options, this dish is perfect for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a comforting meal that everyone will love!
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