Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package directions.
  2. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

2. Cook the chicken

  1. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Sear chicken 5–6 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C). Remove from skillet and set aside.

3. Make the lemon garlic butter sauce

  1. In the same skillet, melt butter.
  2. Add minced garlic, sauté 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Pour in lemon juice and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
  4. Simmer 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced.

4. Make the creamy Parmesan pasta

  1. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  3. Pour in heavy cream, bring to a gentle simmer.
  4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  5. Add cooked pasta, tossing to coat. Use reserved pasta water if sauce is too thick.
  6. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.

5. Combine and serve

  1. Plate creamy pasta and top with lemon garlic butter chicken.
  2. Spoon extra sauce over the chicken.
  3. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.

Tips

  • For extra flavor, marinate chicken in lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil for 30 minutes before cooking.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the creamiest sauce.
  • Add steamed broccoli or peas to the pasta for a colorful, healthy boost.

If you want, I can also give you a one-skillet version where the chicken and pasta cook together for less cleanup and maximum flavor.

Do you want me to share that version?

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