Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
If you’re looking for a restaurant-quality dinner you can make at home in under an hour, this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is exactly what you need. The juicy chicken breasts are seared in a garlic butter sauce, then paired with rich and creamy Parmesan pasta. The zesty lemon brightens the dish, while the silky sauce clings beautifully to every strand of pasta.
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This meal is elegant enough for date night but easy enough for busy weeknights.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (juice + zest)
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- 8 oz fettuccine (or pasta of choice)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, but reserve ½ cup of pasta water for the sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature). Remove and let rest.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add lemon juice, zest, and a splash of pasta water. Stir to combine and scrape up any browned bits from the pan.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Parmesan Pasta
In another pan (or the same skillet after removing chicken), melt butter and add garlic. Stir in heavy cream and simmer gently for 2–3 minutes. Add Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss in the cooked pasta until well coated. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water.
Step 5: Combine & Serve
Slice the chicken and place it on top of the creamy pasta. Drizzle with lemon garlic butter sauce, garnish with parsley, and serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
- Add vegetables like spinach, asparagus, or broccoli for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Make it spicy with a pinch of red pepper flakes in the sauce.
- Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta if desired.
What to Serve With Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
- A fresh Caesar salad
- Garlic bread or breadsticks
- Roasted vegetables for a balanced meal
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
The chicken can be cooked ahead, but the pasta is best enjoyed fresh for maximum creaminess.
Q: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be lighter and less creamy. To thicken, add a teaspoon of flour while sautéing the garlic.
Q: Can I freeze this recipe?
It’s not ideal since creamy sauces separate when frozen, but leftovers keep well in the fridge for 3–4 days.
Nutrition (Per Serving – 4 servings)
- Calories: ~580
- Protein: 34g
- Carbs: 45g
- Fat: 28g
