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If you’re looking for a recipe that’s bursting with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for a cozy night in, this Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta will be your new go-to dish! With tender, juicy chicken seared in a rich garlic butter sauce and paired with bright, zesty lemon parmesan pasta, this recipe strikes the perfect balance of comfort food and gourmet flair. Let me guide you through this delightful culinary journey, and don’t forget to subscribe to receive more mouthwatering recipes right to your inbox!
Why You’ll Love Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta
This dish checks all the boxes for a winner:
- Rich, buttery flavor: The garlic butter sauce adds a luxurious richness to the chicken, making every bite melt-in-your-mouth good.
- Bright and zesty pasta: The combination of lemon and parmesan brings a refreshing and tangy twist to classic creamy pasta.
- Easy to make: Ready in under 40 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that feels indulgent without the fuss.
- Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or swap ingredients to suit your taste—it’s incredibly versatile!
The Taste
Imagine twirling creamy, tangy pasta around your fork while savoring bites of tender, garlicky chicken. The lemon adds a lightness, the parmesan a nutty depth, and the garlic butter sauce ties it all together with pure indulgence.
Benefits of This Recipe
- Balanced flavors: Perfectly harmonizes creamy and zesty notes.
- Wholesome ingredients: Includes lean protein, flavorful cheese, and zesty citrus for a nourishing meal.
- Impressive but simple: Ideal for both casual dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta
Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts, sliced into cutlets
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz fettuccine or linguine
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ cup pasta water (reserved)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Additions:
- Baby spinach for a pop of green
- Cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness
- Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Tools You’ll Need:
- Large skillet for searing the chicken
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Fine grater for parmesan and lemon zest
- Tongs for handling pasta
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta
Prep the Ingredients
- Slice the chicken breasts into thin cutlets for even cooking. Season them with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Boil a pot of salted water and cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken cutlets and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Transfer to a plate.
- In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
Make the Lemon Parmesan Sauce
- Melt butter in the skillet with the garlic. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth and creamy.
- Mix in the lemon juice, zest, and Italian seasoning. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, using tongs to coat it thoroughly. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time for a silkier consistency.
- Add baby spinach or cherry tomatoes if desired.
Serve It Up!
Plate the pasta and top with the seared chicken. Garnish with additional parmesan, lemon zest, or parsley for a finishing touch.
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta
- Crusty bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
- Side salad: A simple arugula or Caesar salad complements the richness.
- Roasted vegetables: Asparagus or Brussels sprouts make a fantastic side.
Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta
- Don’t overcook the chicken: Thin cutlets cook quickly—keep an eye on them to avoid dryness.
- Use fresh ingredients: Freshly grated parmesan and lemon zest make all the difference!
- Save that pasta water: It’s a secret weapon for silky sauces.
Storage Instructions
Leftovers? No problem! Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine and linguine are traditional choices, penne or rigatoni also work wonderfully.
Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Yes, half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative can be used, though the sauce may be slightly less creamy.
What can I add for extra protein?
Shrimp or crispy pancetta are fantastic additions that pair well with the flavors.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Swap the pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety and ensure the other ingredients are GF-certified.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta is a dish that truly impresses, whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The richness of the garlic butter chicken paired with the zesty creaminess of the pasta makes it an instant favorite. Try it out, and I promise it’ll become a staple in your recipe rotation.
For more delectable recipes, check out these:
- Cinnamon Roll Honeybun Cheesecake Recipe
- Easy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Bars
- Chicken Parmesan Casserole: A Comforting Twist on a Classic
Share your creations with me on Pinterest—I can’t wait to see how yours turns out!
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 580
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbs: 52g
Enjoy every bite! 😊
PrintGarlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta
- Total Time: 35
Description
Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta is a comforting, flavor-packed dish combining juicy, garlicky chicken with creamy, zesty pasta. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in under 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts, sliced into cutlets
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz fettuccine or linguine
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Additions:
- Baby spinach
- Cherry tomatoes
- Red pepper flakes
Instructions
Instructions:
- Prep Ingredients: Season chicken cutlets with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook pasta in salted water until al dente, reserving ½ cup pasta water before draining.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 1 minute. Add butter and heavy cream, whisking until smooth.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in parmesan, lemon juice, zest, and Italian seasoning. Simmer gently, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Combine Pasta: Toss pasta in the sauce, adding pasta water for desired consistency. Optionally, mix in spinach or cherry tomatoes.
- Assemble: Serve pasta topped with chicken, garnished with parmesan, lemon zest, or parsley.
Notes
Notes:
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option.
- Gluten-free pasta works perfectly for a GF-friendly dish.
- Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of cream or milk.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American