This garlic butter chicken with lemon parmesan pasta combines juicy chicken bites with creamy, cheesy pasta for a restaurant-quality meal you can make at home. The bright lemon flavor cuts through the richness perfectly, making this a weeknight dinner that feels special enough for company.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ready in under 30 minutes for those busy weeknights
Uses simple ingredients you probably already have
Perfect balance of creamy richness and bright lemon flavors
Can be easily doubled for meal prep or family gatherings
I created this recipe when my sister was visiting from out of town and wanted something impressive but not too fussy. The look on her face when she took that first bite told me this would become a staple in our family cookbook.
Ingredients
Boneless skinless chicken breast: provides lean protein that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully
Salt and pepper: essential seasoning base that enhances all other flavors
Paprika: adds a subtle smoky note and gorgeous color to the chicken
Italian seasoning: a time saving blend that adds herbal complexity
Butter: creates a rich golden exterior on the chicken and forms the base of the sauce
Fresh garlic: provides aromatic depth that dried simply cannot match
Lemon zest and juice: brightens the entire dish and balances the richness
Fresh parsley: adds color and a fresh herbaceous finish
Linguine: the flat shape holds onto the creamy sauce better than spaghetti
Butter: creates silkiness in the sauce and adds richness
Parmesan cheese: use freshly grated for the best melting and flavor
Heavy cream: provides luxurious texture and helps create a silky sauce
Garlic powder: infuses the sauce with garlic flavor without overwhelming it
Reserved pasta water: the starchy liquid helps bind the sauce to the pasta
Step-by-Step Instructions
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