Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken With Parmesan Linguine Recipe

There's nothing quite like the combination of lemon, garlic, and butter to create a dish that's both comforting and refreshing. This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Linguine brings together tender, juicy chicken coated in a flavorful garlic butter sauce, paired with perfectly cooked linguine tossed in Parmesan cheese. It's a restaurant-quality meal that's surprisingly easy to make at home.

I first made this dish on a whim, trying to use up some leftover chicken breasts and a half-empty box of pasta. The result? A creamy, zesty, and utterly satisfying dinner that my family now requests at least once a week.

Why You'll Love This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken With Parmesan Linguine

Get ready to fall in love with a dish that’s as elegant as it is effortless. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

First off, it's quick and easy. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, homemade meal that tastes like it came from a fancy Italian restaurant.

Not only is it fast, but it’s also packed with flavor. The combination of garlic butter, fresh lemon juice, and Parmesan creates a mouthwatering balance of richness and acidity.

It’s also budget-friendly. This dish uses simple, affordable ingredients like chicken breasts, pasta, and pantry staples, making it a delicious yet economical choice.

Plus, it’s versatile! Want to switch up the protein? Try shrimp instead of chicken. Prefer a different pasta shape? Go for fettuccine or even angel hair.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this dish lies in its simple yet powerful ingredients, each playing a key role in bringing out bold flavors and perfect textures.

Chicken breasts are the protein of choice, delivering a lean, juicy bite. Slicing them into cutlets ensures quick cooking and even browning. If you prefer, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work just as well, adding extra richness.

Fresh garlic is a must for this recipe. When sautéed in butter, it releases a deep, aromatic flavor that forms the base of the sauce. Avoid using pre-minced garlic from a jar; fresh cloves make a noticeable difference.

Lemon juice and zest bring brightness to the dish. The acidity cuts through the richness of the butter and Parmesan, balancing out the flavors perfectly. Always use fresh lemons for the best taste.

Parmesan cheese adds a salty, umami depth that coats the linguine beautifully. Opt for freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-packaged versions, as it melts more smoothly into the sauce.

Lastly, linguine is the ideal pasta choice, offering just the right amount of bite and surface area to soak up the garlicky, buttery sauce. However, feel free to swap in your favorite pasta shape.

How To Make This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken With Parmesan Linguine

Creating this flavorful dish is easier than you think, and with just a few simple steps, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy meal on your table in no time.

Start by cooking the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water. Linguine should be cooked until al dente, which usually takes about 9-10 minutes. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

While the pasta is cooking, season and cook the chicken. Slice the chicken breasts into thin cutlets and season them generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter and sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover to keep warm.

In the same skillet, make the sauce by adding more butter and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute, then pour in freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest. Let it simmer for a minute to meld the flavors.

Next, toss the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the lemon garlic butter sauce. Add in freshly grated Parmesan and a splash of the reserved pasta water to help create a silky coating. Stir everything together until the pasta is well coated and glossy.

Finally, slice the chicken and arrange it over the pasta. Garnish with extra Parmesan, chopped parsley, and a few lemon wedges for an extra citrusy kick. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare with this dish!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta may absorb some of the sauce, so adding a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil when reheating can help revive the texture.

To reheat, simply warm the pasta and chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a bit of extra butter or broth to loosen up the sauce. Alternatively, a quick zap in the microwave works too, though stovetop reheating is best for maintaining the dish’s quality.

Variations and Substitutions

This dish is incredibly adaptable, making it easy to tweak based on dietary preferences or what you have on hand.

If you prefer a creamier version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half when adding the Parmesan. This creates an ultra-luxurious sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.

For a low-carb option, swap the linguine for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. The lemon garlic butter sauce pairs perfectly with these lighter alternatives.

Want to add some greens? Toss in a handful of fresh spinach or arugula right before serving. The residual heat will wilt them just enough while adding a fresh, vibrant touch.

For a spicy kick, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes along with the garlic. The slight heat balances beautifully with the tangy lemon and rich butter.

Whether you stick to the classic recipe or mix things up, this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Linguine is bound to become a staple in your home. Give it a try, and enjoy every flavorful bite!

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