Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Linguine
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Linguine
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Linguine is a delightful dish that brings together the bright flavors of lemon and garlic with tender chicken and creamy pasta. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or when you want to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of buttery chicken and rich, cheesy linguine makes for a meal that is comforting yet elegant.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe stands out because it is simple to prepare while still offering a rich taste and beautiful presentation. The fresh lemon adds a zesty kick, while the garlic and butter create a savory depth. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a restaurant-quality dish right at home. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy a comforting meal that pleases both kids and adults alike.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Linguine
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 3 tbsp butter, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- 8 oz linguine
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Directions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine until al dente. Once done, drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, toss the chicken pieces with lemon zest, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper until well coated.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and sauté for about 5–6 minutes, or until the pieces are golden and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until it’s aromatic but not browned.
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and let the sauce bubble for a few minutes until it begins to thicken.
- Add the Parmesan cheese to the sauce and stir continuously until it melts into a creamy blend.
- Add the cooked linguine into the skillet and gently toss it in the sauce until every strand is coated. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir to combine everything.
- Finish with a generous sprinkle of chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy the zesty, buttery goodness.
How to Serve Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Linguine
Serve this dish warm, directly from the skillet for a rustic feel. You can add extra parsley on top for a fresh touch. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread to complete your meal.
How to Store Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Linguine
If you have leftovers, let the dish cool down and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm it in a pan on low heat until heated through.
Tips to Make Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Linguine
- Make sure not to overcook the garlic; it should be fragrant but not browned to avoid a bitter taste.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon and garlic to your taste, adding more if you love those flavors.
- For extra protein, consider adding cooked shrimp or a side of steamed vegetables.
Variation
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can swap out the heavy cream for a light cream or use half-and-half. For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini.
FAQs
1. Can I freeze this dish?
It’s not recommended to freeze the creamy pasta because the sauce may separate when thawed.
2. Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes! Any pasta shape you prefer will work well. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta package instructions.
3. What can I serve with this dish?
A simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables make great sides to complement this dish.

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Linguine
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A delightful dish combining lemon, garlic, buttery chicken, and creamy pasta, perfect for family dinners or impressing guests.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 3 tbsp butter, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- 8 oz linguine
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Toss the chicken pieces with lemon zest, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl.
- Heat 1 tbsp of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and sauté for about 5–6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt the remaining 2 tbsp of butter. Add minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and let the sauce thicken.
- Add Parmesan cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and creamy.
- Gently toss the cooked linguine in the sauce, then return the chicken to the pan and stir to combine.
- Finish with chopped parsley. Serve warm.
Notes
Adjust the amount of lemon and garlic according to your taste. Pair with a salad or garlic bread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian