Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a luxurious, flavorful meal that combines juicy pan-seared chicken with rich, garlicky butter sauce and creamy Parmesan pasta. This comforting yet zesty dish is perfect for dinner, offering the perfect balance of creaminess and tang from fresh lemon. Every bite melts in your mouth with bold flavors, making it ideal for both family meals and special occasions.
Ingredients
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2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (halved horizontally)
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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3 tablespoons unsalted butter
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4 garlic cloves (minced)
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
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Juice and zest of 1 lemon
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1 cup heavy cream
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1/2 cup chicken broth
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3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
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8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti pasta
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2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
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Season both sides of chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
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In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest. Stir well and let it simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
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Add heavy cream and grated Parmesan. Stir continuously until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Add a pinch of chili flakes for a little spice if desired.
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Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and add pasta directly to the creamy sauce. Toss well to coat the noodles evenly.
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Slice cooked chicken into strips and place on top of the creamy pasta. Sprinkle fresh parsley for color and serve warm.
Servings
Serves 4 people
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
Calories: 590
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 32g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 520mg
Sugar: 2g
Notes
For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or low-fat cream. You can also substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or garlic bread.
Tips
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Don’t overcook the chicken; keeping it juicy ensures the perfect texture.
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Always use freshly grated Parmesan for better flavor and smooth sauce consistency.
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Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for a colorful and nutritious twist.
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Zest the lemon before juicing to get the most out of it.
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Use a nonstick skillet for even cooking and easy cleanup.
Health Benefits
This dish provides a good source of protein from chicken, calcium from Parmesan, and healthy fats from olive oil. Garlic supports immune health, while lemon offers vitamin C and antioxidants. When served with whole wheat pasta or veggies, it becomes a balanced and nourishing meal that supports energy and muscle repair.