Description
This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Linguine is a delightful Italian-American main course featuring tender, pan-seared chicken breasts infused with zesty lemon and garlic flavors, served atop rich and creamy Parmesan-coated linguine. The dish perfectly balances buttery, tangy, and savory elements for a comforting yet elegant meal ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (thinly sliced)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Linguine:
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Extra Parmesan and parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook linguine until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Make the chicken: Season sliced chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and melt butter. Add chicken and cook 3–4 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Squeeze in lemon juice and toss chicken to coat. Remove from heat and keep warm.
- Make the sauce: In the same pot or a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Bring to a gentle simmer and stir until smooth and slightly thickened, about 3–5 minutes. Add the cooked linguine and toss to coat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Assemble: Serve chicken over the creamy linguine. Garnish with extra Parmesan and chopped parsley. Serve with lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
- For extra richness, add a splash of white wine to the sauce.
- You can also substitute spinach or broccoli for added greens.
- Make sure to not overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
- Reserve pasta water is helpful to adjust sauce consistency.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
