Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta

 Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta: A Restaurant-Worthy Dinner You Can Make at Home

There are few things more satisfying than a creamy, savory pasta dish paired with juicy, golden chicken. Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta hits all the high notes: it’s rich, zesty, comforting, and incredibly simple to make. This recipe brings together tender, seasoned chicken in a garlicky lemon butter sauce, served over a bed of silky linguine coated in a creamy Parmesan cheese sauce. The result? A dish that’s worthy of your favorite Italian restaurant—but far easier on your wallet and ready in under 40 minutes.

Whether you're cooking for a cozy date night, a family dinner, or meal-prepping for the week ahead, this meal delivers both elegance and crave-worthy comfort. Let's break down the magic behind this irresistible pasta dinner.

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Ingredients & Their Delicious Roles

For the Garlic Butter Chicken:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

Provides lean, protein-rich meat that soaks up the garlic-lemon flavor beautifully.

Salt and pepper, to taste

Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken.

1/2 tsp paprika

Adds subtle warmth and depth of flavor while helping the chicken brown nicely.

1/2 tsp Italian seasoning

Aromatic herbs like oregano, thyme, and basil lend that signature Mediterranean flair.

3 tbsp olive oil, divided

Used to sauté the chicken and garlic while infusing the dish with richness.

3 cloves garlic, minced

The backbone of the flavor profile—pungent, savory, and comforting.

Zest and juice of 1 lemon

Brightens the dish with a punch of citrus, balancing the creamy pasta beautifully.

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Adds freshness and color to the final dish.

For the Lemon Parmesan Linguine:

8 oz linguine

A flat, long noodle that perfectly holds the creamy cheese sauce.

2 tbsp olive oil

Creates a silky texture in the pasta sauce and prevents sticking.

3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

The star of the show—salty, nutty, and rich. Use freshly grated for best results.

1/2 cup light cream

Creates a luscious, smooth sauce without being overly heavy.

Salt and pepper, to taste

Balances the richness of the sauce and brings out the cheese’s flavor.

1/2 tsp garlic powder

Enhances the garlicky profile without overpowering the creaminess.

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Adds color contrast and a clean, herbaceous note.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Linguine

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Cook the linguine until al dente, according to package directions.

3. Drain and set aside. Drizzle with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

1. In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.

2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

3. Add the chicken in a single layer. Cook for 5–7 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through.

4. Push chicken to the side of the pan and add 1 tablespoon olive oil and minced garlic to the center. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

5. Stir in the lemon zest and juice. Mix everything together to coat the chicken evenly.

6. Remove from heat and keep warm.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Pasta

1. In another pan (or the same skillet after removing chicken), heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-low.

2. Stir in garlic powder, light cream, and grated Parmesan.

3. Whisk continuously until cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.

4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Add the cooked linguine, tossing to coat. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

1. Plate the creamy Parmesan linguine.

2. Top with the lemon garlic chicken.

3. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan, if desired.

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Why This Recipe is a Winner

Perfect flavor balance: Creamy cheese sauce, zesty lemon, and savory garlic come together seamlessly.

One-pan ease: Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.

Customizable: Swap in grilled shrimp, use fettuccine instead of linguine, or add spinach for a veggie boost.

Fast and impressive: It tastes gourmet but is ready in under 40 minutes.

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Pro Tips for Perfection

Use freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.

Don’t overcook the garlic: Sauté just until fragrant to avoid bitterness.

Reserve pasta water: A few tablespoons can rescue a sauce that's too thick or dry.

Cut chicken evenly: This ensures consistent cooking and perfect sear on every piece.

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Serving Suggestions

Complete your meal with:

A crisp Caesar salad or simple arugula with lemon vinaigrette

Warm, crusty garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls

A light white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc

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Final Thoughts: Easy, Elegant, and Unforgettable

This Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta is proof that you don’t need complicated ingredients or hours in the kitchen to create something extraordinary. It's comforting, vibrant, and indulgent in all the right ways—with layers of flavor that impress every time. Whether you're feeding a crowd or treating yourself, this dish delivers gourmet satisfaction with weeknigh

t simplicity.

Bookmark this recipe, share it with friends, and make it your new go-to dinner favorite. One bite, and you'll see why it deserves a permanent spot on your table.