This quick and indulgent one-pan meal combines tender, flavorful Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with a rich, creamy Parmesan Pasta — all cooked together in a single skillet for easy cleanup and maximum flavor.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
🧾 Ingredients
For the Chicken Bites:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces) | 1 ½ pounds |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Paprika | ½ teaspoon |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic (minced) | 4 cloves |
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken broth | 2 cups |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Penne pasta | 8 ounces |
| Dried Italian seasoning | 1 teaspoon |
| Parmesan cheese (grated, plus extra for garnish) | 1 cup |
| Fresh parsley (for garnish) | Optional |
🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Season the chicken bites with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the same skillet, then stir in the minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer, then add the penne pasta and Italian seasoning. Cover and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce becomes creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Serve warm, topped with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired.
