Description
If you’re craving a fast, flavorful, and comforting dinner idea, this Easy Tuscan Garlic Chicken Bites Recipe is just what your weeknight needs. Tender chicken pieces are pan-seared in a blend of bold Tuscan spices, served with a creamy garlic parmesan rotini that clings to every bite. It’s a healthy, high-protein meal that feels indulgent yet comes together quickly—ideal for busy nights, easy dinners, or meal prep wins. This is the kind of easy recipe that balances comfort, nutrition, and big flavor in one skillet. Whether you’re looking for quick dinner ideas, cozy comfort food, or new chicken recipes, this one is a guaranteed repeat!
Ingredients
1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
8 oz rotini pasta
2 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1½ cups heavy cream
¾ cup grated parmesan cheese
½ tsp black pepper
Salt to taste
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
1. In a bowl, combine chicken cubes with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well and let marinate for 10 minutes.
2. Boil salted water in a medium saucepan and cook rotini pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer and sear 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. Lower heat to medium. Add butter and garlic to the same skillet. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Pour in heavy cream, bring to a simmer, then stir in parmesan cheese and pepper. Simmer until creamy and smooth. Use reserved pasta water to thin if needed.
6. Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Simmer 1–2 more minutes to absorb flavor.
7. Serve pasta on a plate and top with chicken bites. Garnish with parsley and extra parmesan.
8. Enjoy immediately while hot.
Notes
Marinate the chicken for 30 minutes if you have time for even deeper flavor.
Always reserve some pasta water—it’s great for loosening up thick sauce.
Use freshly grated parmesan for the best texture and taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1½ cups
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 33g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 41g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
Keywords: easy dinner, quick chicken recipe, creamy garlic pasta, Tuscan chicken, high protein meal