Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Creamy Parmesan Chicken Bites with Garlic Butter Pasta. This dish combines succulent chicken cubes enveloped in a velvety Parmesan cream sauce with al dente pasta, all perfected with a delightful aroma of garlic butter. Ideal for a cozy dinner, this recipe promises a delightful culinary experience that is both satisfying and impressively easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini preferred)
- 4 tbsp butter, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside while reserving ½ cup of the pasta water for later use.
- Prepare the Chicken: In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Add the cubed chicken to the skillet and cook until the chicken is golden and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: Using the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Gradually stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, and cook until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Combine: Return the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, folding it gently to coat. Add the cooked chicken bites back to the skillet, and stir to combine everything evenly. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is achieved.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the pasta with freshly chopped basil and additional Parmesan cheese. Serve hot for a comforting and hearty meal.