Ingredients
For the Chicken Bites:
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1½ pounds chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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4 tablespoons butter, divided
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
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12 ounces pasta (such as fettuccine or penne)
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2 tablespoons butter
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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1½ cups heavy cream
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1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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Cook the Pasta:
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Prepare the Chicken Bites:
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In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat until the butter is melted and bubbling.
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Add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Sprinkle with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the seasonings.
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Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is golden brown and cooked through.
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Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and slightly golden.
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Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
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Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
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In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat, scraping up any browned bits from the chicken.
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Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
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Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
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Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
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Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.
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Combine Pasta and Chicken:
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Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy Parmesan sauce. Toss well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
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Return the cooked chicken bites to the skillet, stirring to combine them with the pasta and sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat everything through.
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Serve:
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Divide the pasta and chicken mixture among serving plates.
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Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
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Serve immediately while hot.
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