1lbboneless chicken breastscut into bite-sized pieces
2tbspolive oil
3tbspunsalted butter
3clovesgarlicminced
1tsppaprika
1/2tspItalian seasoning
1/2tspsalt
1/4tspblack pepper
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta
12ozfettuccineor linguine
2tbspunsalted butter
2clovesgarlicminced
1.5cupsheavy cream
1cupParmesan cheesegrated
1/2tspItalian seasoning
1/4tspred pepper flakesoptional
salt and black pepperto taste
2tbspfresh parsleychopped, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook pasta in a large pot of salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Season chicken with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute. Return chicken to the pan and toss in garlic butter. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: In a clean skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream, then simmer for 2–3 minutes. Stir in Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Season to taste.
Step 5: Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until evenly coated. Thin with reserved pasta water if needed.
Step 6: Plate pasta, top with garlic butter chicken bites, and garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately.
Notes
Make it lighter by swapping heavy cream with half-and-half. Add steamed broccoli or spinach for extra veggies. Store leftovers in the fridge up to 3 days.