Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Indulge in a restaurant-quality meal right at home with this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken with a luscious, garlicky, and creamy Parmesan pasta, perfectly balanced with a hint of fresh lemon. It’s a dinner that impresses guests while remaining simple enough for a weeknight. Whether you’re craving comfort food or hosting a dinner party, this recipe delivers on flavor, richness, and elegance. The creamy sauce clings to every strand of pasta, and the buttery, lemon-infused chicken elevates the dish to a gourmet experience. With easy-to-follow steps and high-quality ingredients, you can enjoy a flavorful, wholesome, and satisfying meal that’s both comforting and indulgent.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs) or 4 thin-cut breasts
• 1 tsp paprika (smoked or sweet)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

For the Pasta and Sauce

• 8 oz (225g) fettuccine, tagliatelle, or linguine
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4-5 large garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter sauce)
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• Zest and juice of 1 medium lemon
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Slice large chicken breasts in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets for even cooking. Pat completely dry with paper towels. Season generously on both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining to adjust sauce consistency later. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Pan-Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (165°F / 74°C internal temperature). Remove from skillet, place on a plate, and tent with foil to rest.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Lemon Garlic Sauce

Reduce heat to medium and melt 3 tablespoons butter in the same skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 60 seconds until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and simmer gently for 2-3 minutes. Reduce heat to low and gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until smooth. Stir in lemon zest and juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce. Adjust thickness with reserved pasta water as needed. Slice rested chicken against the grain and serve on top of pasta. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

• Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Add sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted broccoli to the pasta for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Spice it up with red pepper flakes added to the garlic.
• Swap chicken with shrimp or salmon for a seafood version of this creamy dish.

Chef’s Tips

• Use pasta water to make the sauce cling better to the noodles.
• Always use freshly grated Parmesan for smooth, creamy sauce.
• Avoid overcooking garlic to prevent bitterness.
• Cook chicken cutlets evenly by slicing thicker breasts in half horizontally.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, cook the chicken and pasta separately, then combine with the sauce when ready to serve. Reheat gently to maintain creaminess.

Can I use a different pasta?
Absolutely! Linguine, tagliatelle, or even penne works well with this creamy sauce.

Can I lighten the sauce?
Yes, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream.

How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on low heat with a splash of pasta water to restore creaminess.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, approximate)

Calories: 650
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Cholesterol: 170mg
Sodium: 650mg
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 35g

Conclusion

This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a perfect combination of comfort and elegance. With tender, flavorful chicken and a rich, creamy pasta sauce, it’s a dish that will quickly become a family favorite or a show-stopping dinner for guests. Quick to prepare yet impressive on the plate, it’s a recipe that delivers both satisfaction and indulgence. Try this recipe today to experience the perfect balance of garlic, lemon, butter, and Parmesan in a one-of-a-kind pasta dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds.