Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Served with Creamy Parmesan Linguine

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a fantastic blend of vibrant and creamy flavors that come together quickly in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. The lemon zest and juice give the chicken a fresh, zesty punch, while the garlic butter sauce brings indulgent richness. The creamy parmesan linguine complements the chicken perfectly, creating a well-rounded and satisfying dish. Plus, it’s straightforward enough for weeknights but impressive enough for guests.

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ teaspoon paprika
3 tablespoon butter, divided
3 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
8 oz linguine
2 tablespoon butter
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine until al dente. Once done, drain and set aside.

2. In a mixing bowl, toss the chicken pieces with lemon zest, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper until well coated.

3. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and sauté for about 5–6 minutes, or until the pieces are golden and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until aromatic but not browned.

5. Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and let the sauce bubble for a few minutes until it begins to thicken.

6. Add the Parmesan cheese to the sauce and stir continuously until it melts into a creamy blend.

7. Add the cooked linguine into the skillet and gently toss it in the sauce until every strand is coated. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir to combine everything.

8. Finish with a generous sprinkle of chopped parsley. Serve warm.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Total Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Calories: Approximately 530 per serving

Variations

• Swap chicken breasts for thighs for juicier meat.

• Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the pasta for extra veggies.

• Use gluten-free linguine to make this dish gluten-free.

• Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.

• Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. Avoid microwaving directly as the sauce may separate.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the chicken before cooking for even cooking and the best texture.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk combined with a bit of butter for a lighter alternative, though the sauce may be less creamy.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and pasta separately and combine them with the sauce just before serving.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Use dairy-free butter, a non-dairy cream substitute like coconut cream, and a vegan parmesan alternative.

Can I use a different pasta?

Absolutely! Fettuccine, penne, or even spaghetti would work well with the creamy sauce.

How do I keep the chicken tender?

Avoid overcooking the chicken; cook until just done and still juicy inside.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, but the texture of the pasta might change after freezing and reheating. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

Use a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary as a substitute.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus are great additions.

How do I prevent the sauce from separating?

Cook the sauce on medium to low heat and avoid boiling vigorously after adding cream and cheese.

Conclusion

This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Linguine is a delightful dish that combines fresh citrus notes with indulgent creamy sauce and tender chicken. It's quick to make, versatile, and sure to be a hit for family dinners or special occasions. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation.