Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

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There’s something magical about the way lemon, garlic, and butter come together — and when you pair them with tender chicken and creamy Parmesan pasta? You’ve got yourself a weeknight wonder that tastes like a gourmet dream. This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is my go-to recipe when I want a comforting dinner that doesn’t take all evening. If you’re looking for simple yet stunning meals, make sure to subscribe for more recipes.

The Story & Intro

A Recipe That Began with a Craving

I still remember the first time I made this lemon garlic butter chicken. It was one of those chaotic Tuesdays — I had barely anything left in the fridge and zero time to spare. But I did have chicken breast, garlic, a lonely lemon, and a half block of Parmesan. That’s all I needed to whip up something that made everyone at the table pause, look up, and say: “Wow.”

It’s a dish born of spontaneity, but it became a regular part of our dinner rotation — and for good reason. The lemon garlic butter sauce is bold but balanced, coating juicy bites of chicken with zesty warmth. That tangy brightness cuts through the rich, creamy pasta in the most satisfying way.

And while we’re on the topic of comforting meals, this dish shares the same kitchen-hug vibes as the Mediterranean Chicken Patties or even these craveable Deliciously Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. But today’s recipe has a signature glow of its own.

Why This Recipe Shines

What makes this lemon garlic butter chicken with Parmesan pasta so special is how the flavors unfold with each bite. You get that golden sear from the skillet, then the lift of lemon juice, the depth of garlic, and the savory swirl of cream and cheese.

Even better? It’s a one-pan-plus-pasta-pot type of meal. You’re not juggling five burners or scrubbing a sinkful of dishes afterward. It’s quick enough for a weeknight yet elegant enough to serve guests.

And if you love Mediterranean-inspired flavors, you’ll adore how this dish plays off the same fresh notes as Greek Smashed Potatoes with Feta or the cozy comfort of Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet.

Ingredients & Preparation

The Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything that goes into this recipe. A few pantry staples, a few fridge favorites — and you’re set.

You’ll also want to save ½ cup of pasta water — it helps bring the sauce together like a silky dream.

Tools & Smart Swaps

For tools, you only need a sharp knife, a medium pot for pasta, and a large skillet. I always prefer a cast iron or stainless-steel pan to get that perfect sear on the chicken.

Substitutions:

• No linguine? Try fettuccine or spaghetti.

• No heavy cream? Half-and-half works in a pinch.

• Vegetarian? Skip the chicken and toss in sautéed mushrooms or even chickpeas.

This recipe is endlessly adaptable, just like my Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Twisted Pasta — but with that lemon-garlic twist that makes it utterly craveable.

Cooking Instructions & Tips

Let’s Cook This Together

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine until al dente. Before draining, scoop out ½ cup of the pasta water — trust me, you’ll thank yourself later.

Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a bowl, toss your diced chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Let it sit while your pan heats.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce
To the same skillet, add the minced garlic, lemon zest, and juice. Stir for about 1 minute until fragrant, then return the chicken to the pan. Add 1 more tablespoon of butter and coat everything well.

Step 5: Prepare the Parmesan Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Pour in the heavy cream and whisk in Parmesan cheese and garlic powder. Stir until creamy and smooth.

Step 6: Combine & Serve
Toss the drained pasta into the Parmesan sauce, loosening with pasta water if needed. Plate it up and top generously with the lemon garlic chicken. Garnish with parsley.

Tips for Success

• Don’t skip the zest — it brightens the entire dish.

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce.

• Deglaze the pan with a splash of pasta water if it starts to brown too quickly.

These tips are just as helpful as the tricks I use in my Creamy Garlic Chicken with Spinach — another weeknight win.

Serving, Storing & Pairing

What to Serve with It

This dish pairs wonderfully with sides that balance its richness. I often serve it with:

• A bright salad like Greek Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad

• Or some crusty bread slathered in Garlic Scapes Butter

You could also add some roasted veggies or a quick sauté of spinach for a little green on the plate.

Storing & Reheating Like a Pro

Got leftovers? Lucky you.

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.

• Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce.

• Freeze only the chicken portion — the cream-based sauce doesn’t love the freezer.

You can also use the leftover chicken tossed into a wrap or salad the next day. Versatility is the name of the game!

FAQ: Your Chicken & Pasta Questions Answered

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely — just dice them up the same way. They add even more juiciness.

What’s the best pasta shape to use?
Linguine or fettuccine cling to the sauce beautifully, but even penne or farfalle work.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Just use your favorite GF pasta and double-check the seasoning blends.

Can I double the sauce?
Yes, and I often do. Especially if you like extra creamy pasta.

Does the lemon flavor overpower the dish?
Not at all — it complements the buttery sauce and adds brightness.

Conclusion

This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta brings comfort and bold flavor to your table in just about 30 minutes. The zesty lemon, golden chicken, and luscious Parmesan sauce come together like they were meant to be. It’s a dish I turn to again and again — and I hope it earns a permanent place in your own recipe rotation.

If you loved this, you’ll probably also fall for Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta or Mediterranean Chicken with Artichokes and Asparagus.

Did you make this recipe? I’d love to hear about it!
Leave a rating, drop a comment below, and pin it to your favorite board on Pinterest. Your feedback helps others discover and enjoy it too!

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