Savory Chicken and Pasta Dish (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Chicken

01 - 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
04 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 1 teaspoon paprika
06 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ For the Pasta

08 - 300 g (10 oz) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
09 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
10 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
11 - 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) heavy cream
12 - 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
13 - 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
14 - Salt and black pepper, to taste
15 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)

# Instructions:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
02 - Season the chicken pieces with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken in the garlic butter and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
03 - In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer, then stir in the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly.
04 - Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the Parmesan sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy sauce. Stir in the chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
05 - Plate the creamy pasta and top with the garlic butter chicken bites. Garnish with extra parsley and serve immediately.

# Notes:

01 - For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
02 - Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
03 - Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture in the sauce.