Zesty Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken & Parmesan Linguine Recipe

Succulent lemon garlic butter chicken dances beautifully with creamy parmesan linguine, promising a meal that sparkles with Mediterranean charm.

Fragrant herbs and zesty citrus create magic in this simple yet elegant dish.

Weeknight dinners rarely feel this luxurious without complicated techniques.

Tender chicken pieces nestle against silky pasta, promising comfort in every delectable bite.

Bright lemon notes cut through rich butter, while garlic adds depth and warmth.

parmesan cheese melts into a dreamy sauce that coats each pasta strand perfectly.

You’ll want to savor every single mouthful of this restaurant-quality meal crafted right in your kitchen.

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Linguine Perfection

• Unleash Flavor Explosion: Combines zesty lemon, rich garlic butter, and creamy Parmesan for a mouthwatering taste experience that elevates ordinary chicken and pasta.
• Master Quick Cooking: Requires minimal ingredients and simple steps, making it perfect for home cooks seeking a restaurant-quality meal without complicated techniques.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Delivers a satisfying one-pan dinner that appeals to both adults and kids, with its creamy sauce and tender chicken creating instant family-favorite status.
• Versatile Meal Solution: Works brilliantly for weeknight dinners, date nights, or casual gatherings, transforming basic ingredients into an impressive dish that looks and tastes gourmet.

Ingredients for This Bright and Creamy Chicken Pasta Dish

• Chicken Breasts: A tender and lean protein that serves as the main star of the dish.
• Linguine Pasta: A classic long, flat pasta that perfectly captures the creamy sauce.

• Butter, Olive Oil: Provide rich flavor and help with cooking and sauce creation.
• Garlic, Parmesan Cheese, Chicken Broth, Heavy Cream: Create a luxurious and creamy sauce base with deep, savory flavors.
• Lemon Juice, Red Pepper Flakes: Add brightness and a subtle kick to the overall dish.

• Salt, Black Pepper, Italian Seasoning: Enhance and balance the flavors of the chicken and sauce.
• Fresh Parsley: Adds a fresh, green garnish that brings color and a light herbal note to the final presentation.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Linguine

Step 1: Boil Pasta

Cook linguine in salted water according to package directions. Once tender, drain completely and let rest.

Step 2: Season Chicken

Generously coat chicken breasts with salt, ground black pepper, and Italian herb blend to infuse deep flavor.

Step 3: Sear Chicken

• Olive oil
• Chicken breasts

Heat skillet over medium-high temperature.

Place chicken and cook until golden brown, approximately 4-5 minutes per side. Ensure chicken is fully cooked through.

Transfer to clean plate.

Step 4: Create Aromatic Base

• Butter
• Garlic

Melt butter in same skillet.

Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and slightly golden.

Step 5: Build Savory Sauce

• Chicken broth
• Lemon juice
• Red pepper flakes

Pour chicken broth, fresh lemon juice, and red pepper flakes into skillet.

Allow mixture to simmer and reduce for 2 minutes.

Step 6: Finish Creamy Sauce

• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese

Stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese.

Whisk until sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened.

Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Toss cooked linguine thoroughly in prepared sauce, ensuring each strand is well-coated.

Step 8: Plate and Garnish

Layer sauced pasta on serving plates. Top with sliced chicken.

Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over dish. Serve immediately while hot.

Tips for Tender Chicken and Silky Parmesan Sauce

• Opt for fresh chicken breasts to ensure maximum flavor and tenderness when cooking.
• Pat chicken dry before seasoning to help achieve a perfect golden-brown exterior when searing.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a richer, more authentic taste compared to pre-packaged options.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes carefully to control heat level and suit different spice preferences.
• Let the sauce simmer gently to prevent separation and maintain a smooth, creamy consistency.

Creative Twists to Make This Chicken Pasta Your Own

• Gluten-Free Pasta Option: Replace regular linguine with gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Swap heavy cream and Parmesan with coconut cream and nutritional yeast for a lactose-free version.
• Spicy Herb Chicken Variation: Add smoked paprika and fresh thyme to the chicken seasoning for an extra flavor kick.
• Mediterranean-Inspired Twist: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil into the sauce for a Mediterranean-style chicken pasta.

Serving Ideas to Pair Perfectly with Lemon Garlic Linguine

• Elegant Date Night Dining: Transform this dish into a romantic dinner by dimming lights, using nice plates, and pairing with a crisp white wine for a restaurant-quality experience at home.
• Meal Prep Magic: Prepare chicken and sauce separately, storing in containers for quick weeknight meals. Reheat gently and toss with fresh linguine for a speedy dinner solution.
• Picnic Perfect Plate: Pack cooled chicken and linguine in a sealed container for an outdoor lunch. The creamy sauce and tender chicken make this a delightful portable meal for park or beach adventures.
• Leftover Remix: Shred remaining chicken and mix with sauce, then use as a filling for creamy wraps or stuff into warm quesadillas for a delicious next-day lunch transformation.

How to Store Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta Properly

• Refrigerate leftover chicken and pasta separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, keeping the sauce and chicken apart to preserve texture.
• Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or use sealed containers to prevent moisture loss and contamination.

FAQs

• Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh parsley?

Yes, you can substitute dried parsley. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried parsley instead of fresh, sprinkled on top of the dish.

• How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Replace regular linguine with gluten-free pasta and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free. Double-check all ingredient labels to avoid gluten contamination.

• Is it possible to use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work great in this recipe. They’re often more flavorful and juicy. Just adjust cooking time to ensure they’re fully cooked through.

Zesty Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken With Parmesan Linguine Recipe

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4.9 from 33 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 2 1x

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Description

Succulent lemon garlic butter chicken with parmesan linguine delights palates with Mediterranean-inspired flavors. Creamy pasta and perfectly seasoned chicken create a memorable dining experience you’ll savor with each delectable bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 ounces (226 grams) linguine pasta

Seasonings and Spices:

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Cooking Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

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Instructions

1. Prepare linguine in boiling salted water until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain thoroughly and reserve.
2. Generously coat chicken breasts with a blend of aromatic seasonings, ensuring even coverage.
3. Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, reaching approximately 375°F.
4. Sear chicken for 4-6 minutes per side, developing a golden-brown crust and ensuring internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate, keeping warm.
6. Reduce skillet heat to medium-low, melt butter until it becomes slightly foamy and fragrant.
7. Introduce minced garlic, stirring continuously to prevent burning and release its robust flavor.
8. Deglaze pan with chicken broth, fresh lemon juice, and a pinch of red pepper flakes, creating a vibrant, tangy liquid.
9. Allow sauce to simmer and reduce for 2-3 minutes, concentrating flavors.
10. Incorporate heavy cream and grated Parmesan, whisking until sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened.
11. Gently fold linguine into the creamy sauce, ensuring each strand is evenly coated.
12. Arrange sliced chicken atop the sauced pasta.
13. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately while hot.

Notes

• Use high-quality chicken breasts for maximum tenderness and flavor absorption.
• Pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a perfect golden-brown crust and better seasoning adherence.
• Adjust red pepper flakes based on spice tolerance for personalized heat level.
• For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt to reduce calories while maintaining creamy texture.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2
• Calories: 670 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 620 mg
• Fat: 38 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 44 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 42 g
• Cholesterol: 145 mg