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Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

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Lemon garlic butter chicken with creamy parmesan pasta is a comforting yet bright dish combining tender chicken, rich garlic-lemon flavor, and a creamy parmesan pasta sauce—all made in under 40 minutes.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 450 g)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 300 g fettuccine or penne pasta
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for sauce)
  • 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml)
  • 3/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (75 g)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (for sauce)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (for sauce)
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (as needed)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and lemon zest on both sides.
  3. Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Pour in the heavy cream and scrape up any browned bits. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
  6. Add parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy.
  7. Add cooked pasta and toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
  8. Slice chicken and return to skillet. Add lemon juice and simmer for 1–2 minutes to blend flavors.
  9. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Notes

  • Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier result.
  • Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
  • Freshly grated parmesan melts better and improves texture.
  • For added greens, stir in spinach or peas at the end.
  • Don’t overheat the sauce when reheating to prevent separation.

Nutrition