This dish is the ultimate comfort food marriage: succulent, golden-brown chicken bites tossed in a zesty garlic butter sauce, served alongside silky, indulgent parmesan penne. It’s a restaurant-quality meal that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy date night at home.
Meta Description: Master this easy Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe. A quick, flavorful, and family-friendly dinner featuring tender chicken and rich cheesy pasta.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta: - 8 oz (approx. 250g) penne pasta
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 lemon (juiced)
- Reserved pasta water (about 1/4 cup)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Boil the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Pro Tip: Before draining, scoop out about 1/4 cup of the starchy pasta water and set it aside. Drain the rest.
2. Season and Sear the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, pat the chicken dry with paper towels. In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted and bubbling, add the chicken in a single layer. Sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.3. Create the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet (don’t wash it—those brown bits are flavor!), reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer gently for 2 minutes. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce begins to thicken.4. Combine
Whisk in the lemon juice. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water. Toss the cooked penne into the sauce, coating every noodle.
5. Finish and Garnish
Add the chicken back into the skillet (or serve it on top). Sprinkle generously with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Service Suggestions
- Sides: Serve with a crisp green salad or roasted broccoli to balance the richness.
- Bread: A slice of warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for mopping up the extra creamy sauce.
- Wine Pairing: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the lemon and garlic beautifully.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Creamy sauces can thicken or “break” in the microwave. Reheat on the stove over low heat with a splash of milk or water to bring back the creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs?
Absolutely. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will stay even juicier, though they may take a minute or two longer to sear.
Can I make this dairy-free?
You can substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk (it will have a slight coconut hint) and use a vegan parmesan alternative, though the texture will vary slightly.
What other pasta shapes work?
Fettuccine, linguine, or bow-tie (farfalle) all work wonderfully with this sauce.Conclusion
This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta proves that you don’t need hours in the kitchen to create a decadent meal. The brightness of the lemon cuts through the richness of the cream, while the seasoned chicken provides a savory punch in every bite. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds!