1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water, drain, and set aside.

2. Season chicken with smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Cook in batches if needed.

4. Reduce heat to medium, then add butter and minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken. Stir for 1 minute until fragrant and well-coated. Remove from heat and set aside.

5. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.

6. Pour in heavy cream and stir. Once it begins to simmer, add Cajun seasoning, Parmesan, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth and slightly thickened, 3–5 minutes.

7. Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Stir in reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

8. Plate the pasta and top with garlic butter chicken bites. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.