Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Spaghetti

A recipe inspired by your photo.

Servings: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

For the chicken:

• 600 g (1⅓ lb) boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

For the pasta:

• 350 g (12 oz) spaghetti
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
• 1 cup (90 g) freshly grated Parmesan
• ½ cup (120 ml) reserved pasta water, as needed
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until al dente, following the package directions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Season the chicken: Pat the chicken dry. Toss with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Sear: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer, cooking in batches if needed. Cook for approximately 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and the center reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Add garlic butter: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the butter and minced garlic. Toss for 1–2 minutes, just until fragrant, without burning the garlic. Stir in the parsley and set aside.
5. Make the creamy sauce: In a separate large pan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Pour in the cream and simmer gently for 2–3 minutes.
6. Add Parmesan: Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the Parmesan until smooth. Season to taste.
7. Toss the pasta: Add the drained spaghetti and toss well. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce coats the pasta evenly.
8. Serve: Arrange the spaghetti on plates with the chicken beside it. Spoon the garlic butter from the skillet over the chicken and garnish with parsley.

Tip: Grate the Parmesan fresh and avoid boiling the sauce after adding it for a smoother finish.