Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Chicken
01 -
2–3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
02 -
1 tablespoon olive oil
03 -
2 tablespoons butter, divided
04 -
3–4 garlic cloves, minced
05 -
Juice of ½ lemon, plus extra lemon slices for garnish
06 -
Zest of ½ lemon
07 -
Salt, to taste
08 -
Black pepper, to taste
09 -
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
10 -
½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
→ Creamy Parmesan Pasta
11 -
200 grams fettuccine or spaghetti
12 -
2 tablespoons butter
13 -
2 garlic cloves, minced
14 -
240 millilitres heavy cream
15 -
55 grams grated parmesan cheese
16 -
Salt, to taste
17 -
Black pepper, to taste
18 -
½ teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
19 -
Chopped parsley, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Boil the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package directions. Reserve 120 millilitres of pasta water before draining.
02 -
Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.
03 -
Lower skillet to medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon butter and minced garlic, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the lemon juice and zest, scraping the pan to incorporate any browned bits. Return chicken to the skillet, turning briefly to coat in the sauce, then remove again and keep warm.
04 -
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter and sauté 2 minced garlic cloves briefly. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Add the drained pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency. Season with salt, black pepper, and lemon zest if using.
05 -
Arrange sliced chicken over the creamy pasta. Drizzle with any remaining lemon garlic butter sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra parmesan. Serve with extra lemon slices if desired.
# Notes:
01 -
For added colour and nutrition, toss in some spinach or roasted broccoli during the final steps.
02 -
A pinch of red pepper flakes brings a welcome heat to the dish.
03 -
Grilled shrimp or salmon can be substituted for the chicken for a seafood version.