Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Linguine

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Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Linguine

There’s something magical about a recipe that brings the whole family to the table with smiles and full plates. That’s exactly what Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Linguine does in my household. I first came up with this dish on a hectic weeknight when I wanted something quick but flavorful—a meal that would feel indulgent without taking hours to prepare. It’s now a staple in our rotation.

What makes this dish so special is its balance of bright lemon, rich garlic butter, and creamy parmesan that coats every strand of linguine. Add to that tender, golden chicken bites seasoned to perfection, and you have a recipe that feels like it came straight out of a restaurant kitchen. The first time I made it, my kids asked for seconds, and my husband couldn’t stop raving about it. Even the picky eater of the house gave it a thumbs up, which is no small feat!

This recipe has become my go-to for nights when I want to put something satisfying on the table without stressing. It’s easy enough for a quick dinner but impressive enough to serve when we have guests over. Plus, the ingredients are simple—you likely have most of them already in your kitchen. I love how versatile it is; you can tweak it to fit your family’s preferences, and it still turns out amazing every time. Ready to give it a try?

Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While linguine works wonderfully to soak up the sauce, feel free to substitute with spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne.

Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
Yes! Swap the butter for olive oil and use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.

Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken and sauce components ahead, but cook the pasta fresh for the best texture.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or milk to bring back the creamy consistency.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or steamed broccoli make great additions.

What You Need to Make Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Linguine

Ingredients:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

Zest and juice of 1 lemon

1/2 tsp Italian seasoning

3 cloves garlic, minced

4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided

1 tbsp olive oil

1/2 cup chicken broth

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

12 oz linguine

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Tools:

Large skillet

Medium saucepan

Tongs or wooden spoon

Zester

How to Make Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Linguine

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter and the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, lemon zest, and juice. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens.

Combine everything: Add the cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing to coat it in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to combine.

Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Best Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Linguine

Don’t overcook the pasta. Aim for al dente, as the pasta will continue to cook slightly in the sauce.

Use freshly grated Parmesan. It melts better and provides a creamier consistency than pre-shredded cheese.

Adjust the lemon to taste. If you prefer a subtler citrus flavor, use less lemon juice or omit the zest.

Brown the chicken well. A golden crust on the chicken adds flavor and texture to the dish.

Double the sauce. If you’re a fan of extra creamy pasta, consider doubling the sauce ingredients.

Reader Reviews

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Perfect for a busy weeknight!” This dish was a lifesaver after a long day. Quick, easy, and absolutely delicious. My whole family loved it!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Restaurant quality!” I felt like I was dining out at home. The flavors are incredible, and the sauce is so creamy and rich.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “A hit with the kids!” Even my picky eater asked for seconds. I added some broccoli, and it blended perfectly with the dish.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Needed a bit more seasoning.” I enjoyed this recipe but will add extra garlic and Parmesan next time for more punch.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Great but messy!” The flavors were fantastic, but I wish I had used fewer pots. Still worth it, though!

Printable Recipe

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