Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients
- 1 lbboneless (skinless chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces, it serves as the protein base of the dish, providing a satisfying bite.)
- —Salt and pepper to taste: Simple yet essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken.
- 1/2 tsppaprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and a hint of color to the chicken.
- 1/2 tspItalian seasoning: A blend of herbs that complements the garlic and lemon (imparting a classic Italian flavor profile.)
- 3 tbspbutter: Essential for cooking the chicken and developing a rich sauce.
- 3 clovesgarlic (minced: A key flavor component that adds depth to the dish.)
- —Zest and juice of 1 lemon: Infuses freshness into the dish (balancing the richness of the butter and cream.)
- —Chopped fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a pop of color and a fresh herbaceous finish to the dish.
- 8 ozlinguine: The pasta base that will carry the creamy sauce.
- 2 tbspbutter: Used to build the creamy sauce (lending richness.)
- 3/4 cupgrated Parmesan cheese: Provides a savory (cheesy flavor that brings the dish together.)
- 1/2 cupheavy cream: Creates a luxurious texture and richness in the sauce.
- —Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances the flavor of the sauce.
- 1/2 tspgarlic powder: Adds an extra layer of garlic flavor to the sauce.
- —Chopped fresh parsley for garnish: Complements the dish visually and flavor-wise.
Instructions
- 1
Prep the Chicken: Start by seasoning 1 lb of boneless, skinless chicken breast pieces with salt, pepper, 1/2 tsp paprika, and 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken right from the start.
- 2
Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the seasoned chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- 3
Add the Flavors: In the same skillet, add the 3 minced garlic cloves, the zest, and juice of 1 lemon. Sauté for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet to combine with the garlic and lemon flavors. Set aside.
- 4
Cook the Linguine: While you're preparing the chicken, bring a pot of salted water to boil and cook 8 oz linguine according to package instructions. Make sure to reserve 1/4 cup pasta water before draining the pasta.
- 5
Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt another 2 tbsp butter. Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream and 1/2 tsp garlic powder. Whisk in 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese until creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- 6
Combine the Pasta: Add the drained linguine to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly, adding the reserved pasta water as needed to achieve your desired consistency. Cook together for a few minutes so the flavors meld.
- 7
Serve: Plate the creamy linguine and top it generously with the garlic butter chicken. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious creation!