Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Chicken

01 - 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
02 - 3 tablespoons butter, divided
03 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 teaspoon paprika
05 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
06 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
07 - 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
08 - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

→ For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta

09 - 8 ounces pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
10 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
11 - 2 cups heavy cream
12 - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
13 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
14 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
15 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
16 - 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

# Instructions:

01 - Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
02 - Season chicken with paprika, salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if using). Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Add 1 tablespoon butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken in garlic butter. Remove chicken and set aside.
03 - In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water.
04 - Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce until evenly coated.
05 - Plate the pasta and top with garlic butter chicken bites. Garnish with parsley, if desired.

# Notes:

01 - Substitute shrimp for chicken or add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for variations.
02 - Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, reheating in a skillet with a splash of cream. Avoid microwaving.