Short introduction
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken cooked in a rich lemon-garlic butter sauce with pasta tossed in creamy Parmesan sauce. This meal is not only satisfying and flavorful but also very easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner.
Why you’ll love it
There are several reasons to love this dish! First, it brings together the bright flavors of lemon and garlic, which uplift the chicken and pasta, creating a wonderful taste experience. Second, the creamy Parmesan sauce adds a comforting richness that pairs beautifully with the zesty chicken. Additionally, it’s a one-pan meal that reduces cleanup time, making dinner preparation stress-free. Lastly, it’s a crowd-pleaser; whether you’re feeding family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Pasta of choice (e.g., fettuccine or linguine)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Substitutions & key variations
If you don’t have chicken breasts, you can use thighs for a juicier option. For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream. You can also use whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta if you prefer. If you like more heat, adding red pepper flakes can spice things up!
Step-by-step
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
In a skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and butter together. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add them to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. After cooking, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Flavor Base
In the same skillet where the chicken was cooked, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about a minute until you can smell the garlic’s aroma. Next, add the lemon zest and juice to the skillet and stir to combine it well with the garlic.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
While the garlic and lemon mixture is simmering, cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Once it’s done, drain it and set aside for later use.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the skillet with the garlic and lemon, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Then, add the cooked pasta to this creamy mixture and toss to coat every strand well.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Slice the cooked chicken breasts and place them on top of the creamy pasta. Finish your dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
Success tips
- Make sure your chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
- Keep an eye on the garlic; it can burn quickly, which will affect the dish’s flavor.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta cooking water to reach your desired consistency.
- Common mistakes to avoid include overcooking the chicken or allowing the garlic to burn.
How to serve
This dish is best served warm right after preparation. Pair it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You could also serve it with some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Storage & reheating
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will last for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave, but it’s best to do so in short increments to avoid overcooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to fully thaw them before cooking for even results.
Q: What pasta works best with this recipe?
A: Fettuccine and linguine are great choices, but you can use any pasta you like.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: It’s best to cook the chicken and sauce fresh, but you can prepare components like the garlic mixture and pasta ahead of time to save effort.
Q: Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
A: Yes! You can substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or grilled vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of chicken juices.
Nutrition notes / equivalents
This dish provides a good balance of protein from chicken and carbohydrates from pasta. For a more nutrient-dense meal, consider adding vegetables such as spinach or broccoli.
Conclusion + CTA
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta offers a delightful dining experience that combines wholesome ingredients with simple preparation. It’s perfect for any occasion! Why not give it a try for dinner tonight? Your family will love it!
Links to related recipes
- Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
- Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
- Creamy Spinach Fettuccine
- One-Pan Garlic Lemon Chicken and Rice