Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
• Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water and then drain the pasta. Set aside.

Step 2: Season and Prepare the Chicken

• In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to coat evenly.
• Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Once the oil is hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
• Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

• In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 3 tablespoons of butter.
• Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
• Stir in the lemon zest and the juice of 1 lemon, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan (deglaze with 1/4 cup chicken broth if needed).
• Return the chicken to the skillet, tossing it in the lemon garlic butter sauce until it’s well coated and heated through.
• Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Parmesan Pasta

• While the chicken is cooking, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a separate large skillet over medium heat.
• Add 1 clove of minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
• Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the garlic butter.
• Gradually sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, stirring to combine and melt the cheese into the pasta.
• For a creamier pasta, stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream at this stage. Use reserved pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

• Divide the Parmesan pasta onto serving plates and top with the lemon garlic butter chicken bites.
• Garnish with fresh lemon zest and chopped parsley for a burst of freshness.
• Drizzle any remaining lemon garlic butter sauce from the chicken skillet over the pasta and chicken.