Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

 

This recipe brings together juicy chicken cooked in a rich lemon garlic butter sauce paired with creamy Parmesan pasta. It’s a comforting yet refreshing meal that balances tangy citrus, savory garlic, and silky pasta. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor right from your kitchen.

Ingredients

• • 2 large chicken breasts, cut into thin fillets
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 8 oz pasta of choice (fettuccine or spaghetti works best)

• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, drain, and set aside.
2. Season chicken fillets with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Cook chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

1. In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest, stirring to deglaze the pan. Pour in heavy cream and simmer for 2–3 minutes. Stir in Parmesan until sauce is smooth.
2. Add pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat well. Slice chicken and place on top of the pasta. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Servings

Serves 4 people

Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)

• • Calories: 620
  • Protein: 38g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g

• • Fat: 32g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 3g

• Sodium: 650mg

Notes

You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream if you prefer a lighter sauce. Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor and helps the sauce stay creamy. For extra tang, add a splash of white wine when deglazing the skillet.

Tips

Use thin chicken fillets to ensure even cooking and a juicy texture. Reserve some pasta water to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick. For more flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil for 30 minutes before cooking.

Health Benefits

Chicken provides lean protein essential for muscle repair and energy. Garlic supports immune function and heart health. Lemon is rich in vitamin C, aiding in digestion and boosting the immune system. Parmesan adds calcium for strong bones, while olive oil contributes healthy fats. Balanced with pasta, this dish offers both comfort and nourishment.

Q & A

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce in advance. Reheat gently and toss with fresh pasta before serving.

Q: What pasta works best for this recipe?
A: Fettuccine and spaghetti are excellent choices, but penne or linguine also pair well with the creamy sauce.

Q: Can I use another protein instead of chicken?
A: Yes, shrimp or salmon are delicious alternatives that complement the lemon garlic butter flavors.

Q: How can I make this dish healthier?
A: Use whole-wheat pasta, reduce the amount of cream, and add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or zucchini for extra nutrients.