Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta

Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta: A Flavorful, Easy Dinner Recipe

If you’re craving a delicious, rich, and comforting meal, look no further than this Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta. This recipe combines juicy, tender chicken cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce and paired with a creamy, zesty lemon Parmesan pasta that will have your taste buds dancing. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is quick, easy, and absolutely bursting with flavor!

Why You’ll Love Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta: This dish is a true crowd-pleaser. The garlic butter chicken is perfectly seasoned with a blend of herbs and cooked until golden brown, making it irresistibly flavorful. The lemon Parmesan pasta adds the perfect balance of creamy richness and bright citrusy tang, complementing the chicken beautifully. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a treat but is easy enough for any home cook to prepare.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta:

• For the Garlic Butter Chicken:
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme, chopped)
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional for extra flavor)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• For the Lemon Parmesan Pasta:
  • 8 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water and cooking the pasta according to the package directions. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later, and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Chicken:
   • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).
   • Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
   • Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, then add the minced garlic and thyme. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Make the Lemon Parmesan Pasta Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, add the olive oil and butter, then sauté the garlic for another minute until fragrant.
   • Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Once simmering, add the Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
   • If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
   • Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce and mix well to coat the noodles in the creamy lemon Parmesan sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   • Slice the cooked garlic butter chicken into strips or serve whole on top of the pasta.
   • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra freshness.Crack Chicken Tenders
5. Serve and Enjoy: Plate the pasta with the garlic butter chicken and enjoy the delightful combination of creamy, zesty pasta and flavorful chicken in garlic butter sauce.

Why This Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta is So Special: This dish strikes the perfect balance between rich, savory, and bright flavors. The garlic butter chicken brings savory depth and umami, while the lemon Parmesan pasta adds a creamy, tangy twist that enhances every bite. The addition of fresh lemon and parsley provides a lightness that cuts through the richness, making it a complete and satisfying meal.

This recipe is also customizable! You can add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes for added texture and nutrients. For a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken or pasta sauce.

Perfect for Any Occasion: This Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious and filling but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. It’s also impressive enough for a special dinner date or a weekend gathering with friends and family. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a restaurant-quality dish at home.Olive Garden Asiago Tortelloni Alfredo with Grilled Chicken