Spicy Garlic Chicken Bites with Creamy Cheesy Pasta

Introduction

Few meals are as comforting as the perfect duo of tender chicken and creamy pasta. This dish brings together juicy, flavorful chicken bites coated in a spicy garlic sauce with rigatoni pasta tossed in a velvety cheese sauce. The balance of bold spices, rich creaminess, and cheesy indulgence makes it a go-to dinner for family nights, casual gatherings, or whenever you crave something hearty and homemade. The sizzling chicken delivers a smoky kick, while the pasta provides a smooth, comforting contrast.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Bites:

• 500 g chicken breast (cut into bite-sized cubes)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

• 2 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tbsp hot sauce

For the Creamy Cheesy Pasta:

• 250 g rigatoni pasta (or any short pasta)

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 2 cups warm milk

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)

• ½ cup cheddar cheese (shredded)

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Chopped chives or green onions (for garnish)

Preparation Steps

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

• Cook the rigatoni until al dente, then drain and set aside.

2. Make the Cheesy Sauce

• In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

• Whisk in the flour to form a roux, cooking for 1 minute.

• Slowly add the warm milk, whisking until smooth.

• Stir in the heavy cream and cook until slightly thickened.

• Add mozzarella and cheddar, stirring until melted and creamy.

• Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

• Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce until fully coated.

3. Cook the Chicken Bites

• In a bowl, marinate the chicken with paprika, chili powder, pepper, salt, soy sauce, and hot sauce.

• Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté garlic until fragrant.

• Add the marinated chicken and cook over medium-high heat until golden and fully cooked.

4. Assemble the Dish

• Place a generous serving of creamy pasta on the plate.

• Add spicy garlic chicken bites alongside.

• Top the pasta with extra cheese if desired and garnish with fresh chives or green onions.

Conclusion

This recipe is the very definition of comfort food — tender, spicy chicken with just the right amount of heat paired with rich, creamy pasta that melts in your mouth. It’s simple enough for a cozy dinner at home, yet impressive enough to serve guests. Every bite is a harmony of bold flavors and cheesy indulgence, making it a dish you’ll want to recreate time and time again.