Golden Garlic Chicken Bites Over Creamy Parmesan Pasta
There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of creamy pasta paired with golden, crispy bites of chicken. This dish, Golden Garlic Chicken Bites over Creamy Parmesan Pasta, is the epitome of cozy yet sophisticated weeknight dinners. The tender chicken, coated in a golden crust and infused with garlic flavor, perfectly complements the rich and velvety Parmesan sauce that hugs every strand of pasta.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Medium saucepan for pasta
- Mixing bowls for dredging
- Whisk or wooden spoon
- Tongs or spatula
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice
- Fresh parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain, toss with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.
- Coat the Chicken
- In a shallow bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dredge the chicken pieces in the mixture, shaking off the excess.
- Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the butter. Stir in the chicken broth, letting it simmer for 2-3 minutes to slightly reduce. Add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, whisking until the sauce thickens (about 3-4 minutes).
- Combine and Serve
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it in the creamy sauce. Return the chicken to the pan, mixing everything together until well combined. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Tips for Success
Cut Chicken Evenly: Ensure all chicken pieces are the same size for even cooking.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches if needed to maintain its golden crust.
Reserve Pasta Water: Save some of the pasta water to loosen the sauce if it gets too thick.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze in a suitable container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stove with a splash of chicken broth or milk to refresh the sauce.
Cut Chicken Evenly: Ensure all chicken pieces are the same size for even cooking.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches if needed to maintain its golden crust.
Reserve Pasta Water: Save some of the pasta water to loosen the sauce if it gets too thick.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze in a suitable container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stove with a splash of chicken broth or milk to refresh the sauce.