Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Seared Chicken Bites

• total time: 3 minutes

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, cut into bite-size cubes

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp smoked paprika

½ tsp garlic powder

½ tsp onion powder

½ tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

1 tsp Italian seasoning

Optional: pinch of cayenne or chili flakes for heat

For the Pasta:

10 oz (280 g) farfalle (bow-tie pasta)

1 tbsp butter

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)

½ cup chicken broth

¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tbsp chopped parsley (fresh or dried)

Directions

Cook the Chicken

In a bowl, toss chicken cubes with olive oil and all seasonings.

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.

Sear chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

Remove and set aside.

Cook the Pasta

Boil pasta in salted water according to package directions.

Drain, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water.

Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

Add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.

Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth; stir and bring to a gentle simmer.

Add Parmesan cheese and whisk until the sauce thickens.

Season with salt, pepper, and parsley.

Stir in the cooked pasta, adding reserved pasta water as needed for creaminess.

Combine and Serve

Plate the pasta and top with the seared chicken bites.

Garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.

Optional Add-ins

Sun-dried tomatoes or spinach for color and flavor

A squeeze of lemon juice for brightness

Crushed red pepper for spice