Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites With Pasta

This dish combines juicy chicken bites with a luscious lemon garlic butter sauce, tossed with tender pasta. It’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight dinners!

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Yield

Serves 4–6

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Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1.5 pounds chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Pasta

• 12 ounces pasta (such as penne, linguine, or spaghetti)
• 4 cups water or chicken broth (for boiling pasta)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Additional lemon juice, to taste

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of water or chicken broth to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. Set pasta aside.

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Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Bites

1. In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

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Step 3: Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Stir in the lemon zest and juice, followed by the red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another minute.
4. Add the reserved pasta water and stir to combine, allowing the sauce to slightly thicken.

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Step 4: Combine Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce

1. Return the chicken bites to the skillet and toss them in the lemon garlic butter sauce.
2. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly.
3. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning with additional lemon juice, salt, or pepper if needed.

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Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
2. Serve immediately with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

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Kitchen Tips

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil for 15 minutes before cooking.
• Substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper cheese flavor.
• Add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for a nutrient boost.

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This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites With Pasta is a bright and savory dish that’s sure to become a family favorite! Perfectly seasoned chicken, buttery pasta, and a zesty lemon kick make this a must-try meal!