Are you ready for a weeknight dinner that tastes like a gourmet meal? This Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate comfort dish. With juicy, flavorful chicken and creamy, cheesy pasta, it’s a meal that feels indulgent yet easy enough to whip up in just 35 minutes. Whether you’re hosting friends or looking for a family favorite, this recipe will never disappoint!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights without compromising on flavor.
- Deliciously Balanced: The zesty lemon and creamy Parmesan create a harmony of flavors.
- One-Pan Magic: Minimal cleanup required!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 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
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Chicken
- Start by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re golden brown and fully cooked.
- Stir in the minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Let it cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the bright flavors to infuse the chicken. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Prepare the Linguine
- Cook the linguine according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water before draining the rest.
3. Make the Parmesan Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream and garlic powder, stirring until smooth.
- Slowly whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes creamy and thick. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine and Serve
- Toss the cooked linguine in the Parmesan sauce until evenly coated. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
- Serve the creamy linguine on plates, topped with the garlic butter chicken. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan for a finishing touch.
Tips for Success
- Perfectly Cooked Pasta: Don’t forget to save some pasta water—it’s the secret to silky, restaurant-style sauce.
- Room-Temperature Cream: Using cream at room temperature prevents curdling when it meets the hot skillet.
- Adjustable Flavors: Add chili flakes for a spicy kick or extra lemon zest for a brighter taste.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with:
- Garlic Bread: For soaking up every bit of the creamy sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Add some color with asparagus or broccoli.
- Crisp Salad: A refreshing green salad balances the richness of the pasta.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce’s creaminess.
Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta Recipe