When it comes to creating a meal that feels gourmet without requiring hours in the kitchen, this Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta is the star. It’s got everything you could want: tender chicken, zesty lemon, creamy Parmesan, and the satisfying bite of perfectly cooked linguine. Whether you’re whipping this up for a quick family dinner or looking to impress guests, it’s guaranteed to be a hit.

Let me walk you through this delightful recipe, step by step, so you can make it your own. But first, let me tell you why this dish is a household favorite in my kitchen. It’s all about that balance of flavors—garlic butter bringing richness, lemon adding brightness, and Parmesan tying everything together with a savory finish. Trust me, you’ll be licking the plate clean!

The Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is broken into two main parts: the garlic butter chicken and the creamy Parmesan linguine. You likely have many of these ingredients in your pantry or fridge already.

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 1: Prepping and Cooking the Chicken

The first step is all about the chicken—getting it perfectly tender and infused with flavor. Start by seasoning your bite-sized chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. These spices create a delicious base that complements the garlic butter sauce beautifully.

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is sizzling and fragrant, add the chicken to the skillet. Let it cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown and cooked through. You’re aiming for those lightly crisped edges that add both texture and flavor.

Pro Tip: Avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking the chicken. This ensures that it browns evenly instead of steaming.

Step 2: Infusing Garlic and Lemon Goodness

Here’s where the magic happens. Once your chicken is fully cooked, it’s time to amp up the flavor. Add the minced garlic, lemon zest, and a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the skillet. Stir everything together, letting the garlic sauté and the lemon juice deglaze the pan. The aroma? Out of this world.

Let the chicken simmer for another 1–2 minutes, just long enough to let the flavors meld without overcooking the garlic. Then, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Don’t worry about cleaning the pan—you’ll be using it again for the pasta sauce, and those leftover bits of flavor are key.

Step 3: Cooking the Pasta to Perfection

While the chicken rests, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta water before draining. This starchy water can work wonders when adjusting the consistency of your Parmesan sauce later on.

Pro Tip: Always salt your pasta water generously—it’s the first opportunity to season the pasta itself, and it makes a big difference in the final dish.

Crafting the Creamy Sauce and Bringing It All Together

Now that your chicken is resting and the pasta is cooked to perfection, it’s time to focus on the creamy, dreamy Parmesan sauce that ties this dish together. This part of the recipe is quick but crucial for creating that restaurant-quality experience right in your own kitchen. Ready? Let’s dive in!

Step 4: Making the Parmesan Sauce

With the same skillet you used for the chicken, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. This is where all those flavorful browned bits from the chicken get a chance to shine. Once the butter is melted and slightly bubbling, pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the garlic powder.

Stir the mixture gently as it heats, making sure everything is smooth and well combined. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese a little at a time. This ensures the cheese melts evenly into the sauce without clumping. As the sauce thickens slightly, give it a taste and season with a pinch of salt and pepper to suit your preference.

Pro Tip: If the sauce feels too thick, don’t panic! This is where the reserved pasta water comes in. Add a splash at a time, stirring well, until you reach the perfect creamy consistency.

Step 5: Tossing the Pasta

Now that your Parmesan sauce is velvety and flavorful, it’s time to bring the linguine into the mix. Add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet and toss it gently to coat every strand in the sauce. You want the pasta to absorb some of that creamy goodness, so don’t rush this step.

If needed, add a little more of the reserved pasta water to loosen up the sauce. This step makes sure every bite is luxurious without feeling heavy.

Step 6: Bringing It All Together

It’s time to reunite the pasta and chicken. Plate the saucy linguine first, creating a luscious base. Then, generously pile on the lemon-infused garlic butter chicken. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese for that final touch of elegance.

Pro Tip: For an extra pop of brightness, add a small wedge of lemon to the plate. A quick squeeze before eating enhances the dish’s fresh, zesty flavors.

Customization and Variations

This Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

1. Add Veggies: Toss in some steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, or roasted cherry tomatoes for added color and nutrition.
2. Spice It Up: Love heat? Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while making the sauce.
3. Go Gluten-Free: Swap out the linguine for your favorite gluten-free pasta.
4. Protein Switch: Don’t have chicken? This recipe works beautifully with shrimp or even pan-seared scallops.

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Serving Suggestions

This dish is a meal in itself, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate the experience even further. Here are some ideas:

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
• Simple Salad: A crisp Caesar or arugula salad adds a refreshing contrast.
• Roasted Veggies: Try asparagus or zucchini for a seasonal touch.

With the sauce perfected and the pasta plated, your kitchen is now filled with the irresistible aroma of garlic, lemon, and Parmesan. You’re officially ready to dig in!

FAQ and Conclusion

By now, you’ve cooked up a plate of irresistible Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta. But before you dig in, let’s address some common questions you might have about the recipe. Plus, I’ll share a few final thoughts to wrap everything up and inspire you to try this dish again and again.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While linguine works wonderfully in this recipe, feel free to substitute it with fettuccine, spaghetti, or even short pasta like penne or rigatoni. Gluten-free or whole wheat pasta are great options as well.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the components in advance. Cook the chicken and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Cook the pasta just before serving and toss it with the reheated sauce and chicken for the best texture and flavor.

3. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat this dish gently to maintain its creamy texture. Add a splash of milk or cream when warming it up on the stovetop or in the microwave. Stir frequently to ensure the sauce doesn’t separate.

4. Can I substitute the heavy cream?

Yes, if you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even evaporated milk. For a dairy-free version, try coconut cream or unsweetened almond milk thickened with a little cornstarch.

5. How do I keep the sauce from clumping?

The key to a smooth sauce is adding the Parmesan gradually and stirring constantly. Also, make sure the skillet isn’t too hot when you whisk in the cheese. High heat can cause the cheese to clump.

6. Can I add more lemon flavor?

Of course! Feel free to increase the lemon juice or zest for a brighter, tangier taste. Adding a bit of lemon zest to the Parmesan sauce can also intensify the citrusy notes.

7. What other herbs can I use?

While parsley complements this dish beautifully, you can experiment with fresh basil, thyme, or even a sprinkle of rosemary for a twist.

Conclusion: A Dish Worth Repeating

Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta isn’t just a recipe—it’s an experience. It’s the kind of dish that makes an ordinary weeknight feel special or turns a simple gathering into a celebration. The combination of tender chicken, creamy pasta, and zesty lemon creates a harmony of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.

So, what are you waiting for? Roll up your sleeves, grab your skillet, and get cooking! Don’t forget to share your creations—I’d love to hear how you made this dish your own. Did you add veggies, swap the chicken for shrimp, or sneak in an extra handful of Parmesan? Drop your thoughts in the comments or tag me on social media.

Let’s keep the deliciousness going, one plate at a time. Happy cooking!

Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta

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• Author: Thomas
• Total Time: 35 mins

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Description

This Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta combines tender, seasoned chicken bites with a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce and a hint of zesty lemon. It’s a comforting dish with a burst of fresh flavor, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

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Instructions

1️⃣ Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.

Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked through.

2️⃣ Add Garlic and Lemon

Once the chicken is cooked, add minced garlic, lemon zest, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Stir well and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to infuse the chicken with bright, fresh flavors.

Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3️⃣ Cook the Pasta

While the chicken rests, cook the linguine in a pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente.

Reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.

4️⃣ Make the Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.

Add heavy cream and garlic powder, stirring until smooth and heated through.

Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens slightly.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5️⃣ Combine and Serve

Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy Parmesan sauce.

If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Plate the pasta, top with the lemony chicken, and garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.

Notes

• For extra lemon flavor, add a second squeeze of lemon juice over the dish just before serving.
• Substitute linguine with fettuccine or spaghetti if preferred.
• Add a touch of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!

• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 20 mins