Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta and top with the garlic butter chicken bites. Drizzle with extra garlic butter if desired and garnish with fresh parsley.
Timing
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk (the sauce will be slightly thinner).
Add a splash of lemon juice at the end to brighten the flavors and balance the richness.
For heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Make it vegetarian by replacing chicken with mushrooms or tofu—sautéed cremini or shiitake mushrooms work especially well.
Boost protein by stirring chickpeas or white beans into the pasta.
Use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for dietary alternatives.
Add vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
Tips
Avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking the chicken to ensure even browning instead of steaming.
Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to help achieve a golden crust.
For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper for 15–20 minutes before cooking.
Always grate Parmesan fresh—pre-shredded cheese can make the sauce grainy.
Stir the cheese in gradually over low heat to keep the sauce smooth. If it thickens too much, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
Lightly sauté the garlic before adding cream for maximum flavor, but don’t let it burn.
Finish with freshly cracked black pepper and extra Parmesan just before serving for the best taste and presentation.
