Learn how to make Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta, a rich and flavorful dish featuring juicy pan-seared chicken in a lemon garlic butter sauce served over creamy parmesan pasta. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a comforting family meal.

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a delicious comfort meal that combines tender, juicy chicken with a rich and creamy pasta sauce. The bright citrus flavor of lemon balances perfectly with savory garlic, butter, and parmesan cheese, creating a dish that is both refreshing and indulgent.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights yet elegant enough to serve for a special dinner. The chicken is pan-seared until golden and then coated in a fragrant lemon garlic butter sauce. It is served over pasta tossed in a creamy parmesan sauce that clings to every bite.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta

8 ounces fettuccine or linguine pasta
2 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 cup pasta cooking water (if needed)

Kitchen Tools Needed

Large skillet
Medium pot for boiling pasta
Cutting board
Knife
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika. This seasoning helps build flavor and gives the chicken a beautiful golden color when cooked.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining. Set the pasta aside.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate to rest.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, then add the lemon zest. Stir well and allow the sauce to simmer for about 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors combine.

Step 5: Return the Chicken to the Pan

Place the cooked chicken back into the skillet and spoon the lemon garlic butter sauce over the top. Let it simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes so the chicken absorbs the flavors. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.

Step 6: Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

In a separate skillet or saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently as it begins to warm.

Step 7: Add the Parmesan Cheese

Gradually add the grated parmesan cheese while stirring constantly. Add salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Continue stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

Step 8: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the creamy parmesan sauce and toss until well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a small amount of the reserved pasta water until it reaches the desired consistency.

Step 9: Serve

Plate the creamy parmesan pasta and place the lemon garlic butter chicken on top or beside the pasta. Spoon extra sauce from the pan over the chicken for added flavor.

Cooking Tips

Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smooth sauce texture.
Do not overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
Add spinach or mushrooms to the pasta for extra vegetables.
A small splash of white cooking wine can enhance the lemon garlic butter sauce.

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave. Add a splash of cream or broth to loosen the pasta sauce if it thickens during storage.

Serving Suggestions

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta pairs well with:

Garlic bread
Roasted vegetables
Fresh green salad
Steamed broccoli
Grilled asparagus