Name: Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: For the Chicken:; - 1 lb boneless (skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces); - Salt and pepper (to taste); - ½ tsp paprika; - ½ tsp Italian seasoning; - 3 tbsp butter (divided); - 3 cloves garlic (minced); - Zest and juice of 1 lemon; - Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish); For the Parmesan Linguine:; - 8 oz linguine; - 2 tbsp butter; - ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese; - ½ cup heavy cream; - Salt and pepper (to taste); - ½ tsp garlic powder; - Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta: A Weeknight Gourmet Delight

Craving a restaurant-quality meal that’s quick and easy to prepare? This Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta is the answer. Juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken is paired with a creamy, cheesy linguine sauce enhanced by zesty lemon for a balanced, flavorful dish. Whether you’re hosting guests or treating your family to something special, this recipe is bound to impress.

Ready in just 35 minutes, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights while feeling indulgent enough for a weekend treat. Let’s dive into how to create this irresistible dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Perfect for hectic evenings without sacrificing flavor.
Flavor-Packed: Lemon zest and Parmesan create a tangy, creamy harmony.
Minimal Cleanup: Everything comes together with ease using just one pan and a pot.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp Italian seasoning
3 tbsp butter, divided
3 cloves garlic, minced
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

For the Parmesan Linguine:

8 oz linguine
2 tbsp butter
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ tsp garlic powder
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked.
Add minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the skillet. Let cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to infuse the chicken with bright, buttery flavors. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Linguine

Cook the linguine in salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 3: Make the Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
Add the heavy cream and garlic powder, stirring until smooth and well combined.
Slowly whisk in grated Parmesan cheese, allowing the sauce to thicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Toss the cooked linguine in the Parmesan sauce, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve your desired sauce consistency.
Plate the linguine and top with the garlic butter chicken. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan.

Chef’s Tips for Success

Silky Sauce: Save that pasta water! A small splash can work wonders in loosening and perfecting the creamy sauce.
Room-Temperature Cream: To avoid curdling, let your heavy cream come to room temperature before adding it to the skillet.
Customizable Flavors: Add chili flakes for heat or extra lemon zest for an even brighter taste.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with:

Garlic Bread: Mop up the luscious sauce with warm, crusty bread.
Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted asparagus or broccoli for a nutritious, colorful side.
Crisp Green Salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the rich pasta.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess.