Zesty Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Linguine Recipe

Tender chicken breasts dance with a zesty lemon garlic butter sauce that perfectly complements the parmesan linguine.

The harmonious blend of flavors creates a restaurant-worthy meal you can easily prepare at home.

Bright citrus notes mingle with rich, creamy butter and robust garlic, promising a culinary experience that delights the senses.

Parmesan adds a salty, nutty depth to the pasta, while the chicken remains juicy and succulent.

Each forkful promises a symphony of textures and tastes that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

This simple yet elegant dish transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal.

Savor every bite of this irresistible chicken and pasta combination that brings gourmet flavors right to your dinner table.

How to Store Chicken Linguine Leftovers

• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep chicken and pasta separately to maintain best texture.
• Wrap chicken and pasta individually in freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Avoid freezing cream-based sauces as they may separate.
• Place chicken and pasta on a microwave-safe plate. Add a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed thoroughly.
• Warm chicken in a skillet with a little butter or olive oil over medium-low heat. Reheat pasta in a separate pan with additional cream or broth to restore moisture and prevent sticking.

FAQs

• What does the sauce taste like?

The sauce combines tangy lemon, rich butter, and creamy Parmesan for a bright, luxurious flavor that perfectly coats the linguine with a smooth, zesty profile.

• Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work great and often provide more moisture and flavor. Just adjust cooking time to ensure they’re fully cooked through.

• Is this dish spicy?

The recipe includes optional red pepper flakes, which add a mild heat. If you prefer no spice, simply omit them. The dish is generally mild and creamy.

• How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The chicken should be golden brown on the outside and white (not pink) throughout when cut.

Why Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta Shines

• Whip Up a Gourmet Meal: This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality dish that impresses without requiring professional cooking skills.
• Customize with Ease: Adjust spice levels by adding or reducing red pepper flakes, and swap proteins if chicken isn't your preference, making it adaptable to personal tastes.
• Quick and Satisfying Dinner: Prepare a delicious meal in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful and comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimize cleanup by using the same skillet for cooking chicken and creating a creamy, zesty sauce, reducing dish washing and saving precious time.

Lemon Garlic Chicken Linguine Must-Haves

• Chicken Breasts: The star protein that provides a tender and juicy base for the dish.
• Linguine Pasta: A classic Italian long, flat noodle that serves as the perfect base for the creamy sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: A sharp, salty cheese that adds rich flavor and creamy texture to the pasta.

• Salt, Black Pepper, Italian Seasoning: Essential spices that enhance the overall flavor of the chicken.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional ingredient that adds a subtle heat and spicy kick to the dish.

• Butter, Olive Oil: Provide rich flavor and help with cooking the chicken and creating a smooth sauce.
• Garlic: Adds a deep, aromatic flavor that complements the chicken and pasta.
• Chicken Broth, Heavy Cream: Create a luxurious and creamy sauce base.
• Lemon Juice, Lemon Zest: Bring a bright, citrusy freshness to balance the rich sauce.
• Fresh Parsley: A garnish that adds a pop of color and fresh herb flavor.

Cooking Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Linguine

Step 1: Boil Linguine

Drop the linguine into salted boiling water and cook following package directions.

Once tender, drain completely and set aside.

Step 2: Season Chicken Masterfully

• Salt
• Black pepper
• Italian seasoning blend

Step 3: Sear Chicken to Golden Perfection

Warm a skillet with olive oil and butter over medium heat.

Cook chicken breasts 5-6 minutes per side until beautifully golden and fully cooked through.

Transfer chicken to a plate.

Step 4: Create Magical Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt remaining butter and sauté minced garlic until wonderfully aromatic.

Step 5: Build Creamy Sauce

• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Fresh lemon juice
• Lemon zest

Stir ingredients and allow sauce to simmer 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Add Cheesy Richness

• Parmesan cheese
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Toss cooked linguine in sauce until completely coated.

Step 7: Assemble and Garnish

Slice chicken and layer over sauced linguine.

Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a bright finish.

Tips for Perfect Butter Chicken Pasta

• Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness before seasoning to ensure uniform cooking and maximum juiciness.
• Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest for brighter, more vibrant flavor compared to bottled alternatives.
• Simmer sauce slowly and stir continuously to prevent separation and achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
• Reserve a small amount of pasta water before draining to help sauce adhere better and create a silkier coating.
• Toast Italian seasoning in the pan briefly before adding chicken to release its aromatic oils and intensify taste.

Changing Up Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta

• Low-Carb Zucchini Noodle Option: Replace linguine with spiralized zucchini noodles for a lighter, gluten-free alternative that reduces carbohydrate intake.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese to create a lactose-free version of the dish.
• Vegetarian Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh, seasoned similarly with Italian herbs and pan-seared for a plant-based protein alternative.
• Spicy Cajun Remix: Add Cajun seasoning to the chicken instead of Italian herbs and include diced andouille sausage for a bold, Louisiana-inspired flavor profile.

Ways to Serve Chicken Linguine Dishes

• Flavor Fusion Plating: Layer the creamy linguine on a large white plate, strategically placing golden-brown chicken slices on top for a restaurant-quality presentation.
• Zesty Side Companion: Serve alongside a crisp arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to complement the dish's tangy and rich flavors.
• Bread Dipping Delight: Offer warm, crusty garlic bread on the side to soak up the delicious lemon garlic butter sauce, enhancing the overall meal experience.
• Wine Pairing Magic: Match the dish with a chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to balance the creamy sauce and highlight the lemony undertones.

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken With Parmesan Linguine Recipe

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4.6 from 16 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 2 1x

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Description

Succulent lemon garlic butter chicken dances atop a bed of perfectly seasoned parmesan linguine, creating a Mediterranean-inspired symphony of flavors. Elegant yet simple, this dish promises a delightful culinary journey you’ll savor with every delectable bite.

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Ingredients

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Protein:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Pasta:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) linguine pasta

Herbs and Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Dairy and Sauce Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream

Cooking Liquids and Aromatics:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

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Instructions

1. Boil linguine in salted water until al dente, following package timing. Drain thoroughly and reserve.
2. Generously season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and aromatic Italian herbs, ensuring even coverage.
3. Warm olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken breasts 5-6 minutes per side until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F, creating a crispy exterior. Transfer chicken to a resting plate.
4. Reduce heat and add remaining butter to the same skillet. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant and lightly golden, releasing its intense flavor.
5. Pour chicken broth, heavy cream, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and grated lemon zest into the skillet. Whisk ingredients together and simmer 2-3 minutes until sauce slightly thickens.
6. Incorporate grated Parmesan cheese and optional red pepper flakes, stirring until cheese melts smoothly. Add cooked linguine, tossing gently to ensure complete sauce coverage.
7. Slice chicken breasts diagonally and arrange over sauced pasta. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant finish.

Notes

• Enhance chicken tenderness by pounding breasts to uniform thickness before seasoning, ensuring even cooking and juicy results.
• Substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or half-and-half for a lighter, lower-calorie version that maintains creamy texture.
• Customize heat levels by adjusting red pepper flakes or using alternatives like cayenne or hot sauce for personalized spiciness.
• Optimize pasta absorption by reserving some pasta water to help sauce cling better and create a silkier, more cohesive dish.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2
• Calories: 850 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 720 mg
• Fat: 48 g
• Saturated Fat: 25 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 56 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 49 g
• Cholesterol: 170 mg