Description
Garlic Lemon Chicken Pasta is a zesty and creamy dish packed with tender chicken, linguine, and a luscious Parmesan sauce enhanced with fresh lemon and garlic. It’s the perfect comfort food that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor, ideal for a family dinner or a special treat.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 3 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (zest and juice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz linguine
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Season the diced chicken with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- Boil the linguine in salted water until al dente, following package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Lemon Base
- In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the lemon zest and juice, cooking for another 30 seconds to enhance the flavors.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
- Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet and let it melt.
- Stir in heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder. Whisk continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Lower the heat and add the cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy sauce.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well until the chicken and pasta are evenly coated in the sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Transfer the pasta to a serving dish and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color.
- Serve hot and enjoy this creamy, zesty delight!
Notes
- Use Fresh Lemon: Always use fresh lemon juice for the brightest and most vibrant flavor.
- Customize Protein: Swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different twist.
- Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to thin it out.
- Make Ahead: While best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and reheat gently when ready to serve.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a bit of cream or water to refresh the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired