Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

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Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

 Description

This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a rich yet refreshing comfort meal. Juicy, golden chicken bites are pan-seared in a buttery lemon-garlic sauce, then paired with silky pasta coated in a creamy Parmesan sauce. The bright citrus balances the savory cheese and butter, making this dish indulgent without feeling heavy—perfect for weeknights or special dinners.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-size pieces)

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

  • ½ teaspoon paprika

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • Zest of 1 lemon

  • Juice of ½ lemon

  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta

  • 8 oz fettuccine or linguine

  • 2 tablespoons butter

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • Reserved pasta water (as needed)

 Instructions

1️⃣ Cook the Pasta

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

  • Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.

  • Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2️⃣ Cook the Chicken

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

  • Season chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.

  • Add chicken to the skillet and cook 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.

  • Remove chicken and set aside.

3️⃣ Make Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

  • Reduce heat to medium.

  • Add butter to the same skillet.

  • Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

  • Add lemon zest and lemon juice.

  • Return chicken to the pan and toss to coat.

  • Garnish with parsley and remove from heat.

4️⃣ Make Creamy Parmesan Pasta

  • In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat.

  • Add heavy cream, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

  • Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes.

  • Stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth.

  • Add pasta and toss, thinning sauce with reserved pasta water if needed.

5️⃣ Serve

  • Plate pasta and top with lemon garlic butter chicken.

  • Finish with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.

 Notes

  • Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoother than pre-shredded.

  • Lemon zest adds flavor without extra acidity—don’t skip it.

  • Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness if preferred.

Tips for Best Results

  • Don’t overcook the chicken—bite-size pieces cook fast.

  • Lower heat before adding garlic to avoid burning.

  • Add a splash of white wine to the chicken sauce for extra depth.

  • For spice, add red pepper flakes.

 Servings

  • Serves: 4 people

Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Serving)

  • Calories: 640 kcal

  • Protein: 42 g

  • Carbohydrates: 45 g

  • Fat: 34 g

  • Saturated Fat: 18 g

  • Cholesterol: 165 mg

  • Sodium: 620 mg

  • Calcium: 320 mg

 Health Benefits

  • High Protein: Supports muscle repair and fullness.

  • Calcium-Rich: Parmesan aids bone health.

  • Lemon & Garlic: Boost immunity and digestion.

  • Balanced Comfort Meal: Combines carbs, protein, and fats for sustained energy.

 Recipe Q & A

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, but it’s best fresh. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk.

Q: Can I substitute the cream?
A: Yes, use half-and-half or evaporated milk for a lighter version.

Q: What pasta works best?
A: Fettuccine, linguine, or tagliatelle hold the sauce best.

Q: Can I add vegetables?
A: Absolutely—broccoli, spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus work great.

Q: Is this freezer-friendly?
A: Chicken freezes well; creamy pasta is best enjoyed fresh.

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