Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 8 ounces pasta (fettuccine or your choice), cooked al dente
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• Salt and pepper to taste for pasta
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

1. Start by cooking the pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
4. Reduce heat to low. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and mix until melted. Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the chicken is coated in a creamy garlic butter sauce.
5. For the creamy parmesan pasta, return the skillet to medium heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the reserved pasta water and additional Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce and toss to combine.
7. Mix in the garlic butter chicken bites into the pasta until evenly distributed. Cook for an additional minute to warm through.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.