A Short Story About the Recipe
I remember the first time I made this dish. It was a rainy Wednesday, the kind of day when you crave something warm, filling, and comforting. I had just come back from the market with a fresh bundle of parsley and a packet of chicken breast that was calling my name. I didn’t want anything fancy or time-consuming, just something that would fill the kitchen with the smell of garlic and make my stomach happy.
So, I opened the fridge, grabbed some cream, a little butter, and a box of pasta from the pantry. That’s when the magic began. I cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, tossed them in a pan with garlic and butter, and in no time, the aroma was so inviting that even my neighbor knocked on the door asking what I was cooking. The pasta came together so easily, the sauce hugged every strand, and the chicken bites were golden and juicy.
This recipe became a regular in my kitchen because it checks all the boxes: quick, simple, and delicious. Every time I make it, I’m reminded that food doesn’t have to be complicated to be impressive.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Versatile
Whether you use spaghetti, penne, or fusilli, this dish adapts to what’s in your pantry. You can also switch up the vegetables or adjust the seasoning to fit your taste.
Budget-Friendly
This recipe uses everyday ingredients that are easy to find and affordable. Chicken breast, butter, garlic, and pasta are all kitchen staples, making this dish perfect for weeknights without breaking the bank.
Ingredients for the Recipe
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500g chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
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3 tablespoons unsalted butter
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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1/2 teaspoon paprika
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200ml heavy cream
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1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
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250g pasta (your choice)
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Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
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1 tablespoon olive oil
How to Make This Recipe
Preparing this dish is truly enjoyable, even on busy evenings. You’ll only need one pan and a pot, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your food. I’ve made this recipe so many times that I could do it with my eyes closed – but I’ll guide you through every step to ensure it turns out perfectly for you.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breast into small, bite-sized cubes. This helps them cook quickly and evenly. Once cut, place them in a bowl and season with salt, black pepper, onion powder, and paprika. Give everything a good toss so the seasoning coats every piece. Set it aside while you prepare the pasta.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your preferred pasta. I usually go for penne or fusilli because they hold the creamy sauce beautifully. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Then, drain and set it aside. Do not rinse the pasta – the starch helps the sauce stick better.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken Bites
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, or they will steam instead of sear. Cook for about 3–4 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through. Use tongs to turn them for even coloring. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Base
Reduce the heat to medium. In the same pan, add 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic. Cook for about one minute, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown – it should stay light and aromatic.
Step 5: Build the Cream Sauce
Pour the heavy cream into the pan with the garlic butter. Stir gently to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the grated parmesan cheese and stir until the cheese is completely melted into the sauce. The mixture should become creamy and slightly thickened. If it gets too thick, you can loosen it with a splash of pasta water.
Step 6: Combine Chicken and Pasta
Add the cooked pasta and chicken bites back into the skillet. Toss everything together so the sauce coats each piece of pasta and every bite of chicken. Keep the heat on low while mixing to keep everything warm and let the flavors meld.
Step 7: Final Touches
Taste the dish and adjust seasoning if needed. Sometimes I like to add a pinch more salt or a twist of black pepper at this stage. Just before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness.
Quick and Easy
This dish comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights. From boiling the pasta to cooking the chicken, every step is designed to be quick and efficient. You don’t need any complicated techniques or tools – just a knife, a pan, and a pot.
Customizable
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easily you can adapt it. Want a bit of spice? Add a pinch of red chili flakes while making the garlic butter. If you’re out of parmesan, try grated mozzarella or another hard cheese. You can even add some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes to sneak in extra veggies.
If you’re cooking for someone with dairy intolerance, you can replace the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative like oat cream or coconut cream. The flavor will change slightly, but the creamy texture remains comforting.
Perfect for Guests
When I have guests over, this is a go-to recipe. It looks elegant on the plate with its creamy coating and golden chicken bites, but it’s secretly very easy to make. I usually serve it with a simple green salad and some crusty bread on the side. Guests always ask for the recipe – and now you can share it, too!
Whether it’s a dinner party or a casual family night, this dish fits the bill. It’s the kind of meal people will remember and request again.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I use a different type of meat instead of chicken breast?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breast with boneless chicken thighs for a juicier result. Just make sure to trim any excess fat before cooking.
What type of pasta works best with this recipe?
Short pasta like penne, fusilli, or rotini works wonderfully because it holds the creamy sauce well. However, you can also use spaghetti or fettuccine if you prefer.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, use a plant-based butter and substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or unsweetened oat cream. For the cheese, opt for a vegan parmesan alternative.
Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the components separately and combine them just before serving. Store the chicken, pasta, and sauce in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of water or plant-based milk to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.