Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites

Crispy golden chicken cubes finished in a silky, cheesy garlic cream sauce.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1½ lbs (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into 1½-inch cubes

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon butter

For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup chicken broth

• ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat chicken dry with paper towels (this helps with browning).

2. Cut into evenly sized cubes for uniform cooking.

3. Toss with salt, pepper, paprika, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.

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Step 2: Sear the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add chicken in a single layer (work in batches if needed).

3. Cook 3–4 minutes per side without moving too much to develop a golden crust.

4. Once cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 75°C), remove from skillet and set aside.

Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan — that prevents browning.

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Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

1. Reduce heat to medium.

2. Add 2 tablespoons butter to the same skillet.

3. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant (do not brown).

4. Pour in chicken broth and scrape up browned bits from the pan.

5. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer (not a boil).

6. Stir in Parmesan cheese gradually until melted and smooth.

7. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

8. Simmer 3–5 minutes until sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.

If sauce gets too thick, add a splash of broth or cream.

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Step 4: Combine

1. Return chicken bites to the skillet.

2. Spoon sauce over chicken and simmer 2–3 minutes until fully coated and heated through.

3. Garnish with fresh parsley.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes

• Spoon over roasted vegetables

• Serve as an appetizer with toothpicks

• Add steamed broccoli or spinach to the sauce for a full meal

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Optional Variations

Extra Cheesy: Add ¼ cup shredded mozzarella.
Lemon Twist: Add 1 tablespoon lemon juice for brightness.
Spicy Version: Increase red pepper flakes or add cayenne.
Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles.

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Storage

• Refrigerate up to 4 days in an airtight container.

• Reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk to loosen sauce.