Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Linguine
Let me tell you this is one of those recipes that’ll have you sneaking forkfuls straight from the pan before it even hits the plate. Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Linguine is the perfect blend of zesty, buttery, and indulgently creamy. The chicken is golden, juicy, and bathed in a garlicky lemon butter sauce that’s basically irresistible.
And just when you think it can’t get better BOOM there’s a dreamy bed of Parmesan linguine to twirl it around in. It’s one of those dishes that feels restaurant-fancy, but it’s totally weeknight doable. Trust me, you’re going to fall hard for this one.
Why You’ll Love Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Linguine
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Great for date night, meal prep, or dinner with picky eaters this one fits any vibe.
Budget-Friendly: Simple, everyday ingredients that come together like magic.
Quick and Easy: The chicken and pasta cook at the same time dinner done in about 30 minutes.
Customizable: Add spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to switch it up.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients in Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Linguine
This one’s all about bold flavor, smooth texture, and that luscious balance of lemony brightness and cheesy creaminess. Here’s what you’ll need:
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless, and pan-seared to golden perfection—juicy and flavorful.
Butter: Brings that rich, silky base to the sauce and helps create a gorgeous sear.
Garlic: Freshly minced for bold, aromatic flavor don’t skimp on it.
Lemon Juice + Zest: Brightens up every bite and balances the richness of the butter and cream.
Heavy Cream: The heart of the pasta sauce creamy, dreamy, and indulgent.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds nutty, salty goodness and thickens the sauce beautifully.
Linguine Pasta: Perfect for twirling through that creamy sauce and soaking up all the flavor.
Salt, Pepper, and Italian Seasoning: Enhances the chicken and sauce with a classic, herby profile.
Fresh Parsley (Optional): For a pop of color and a hint of freshness to finish it all off.

Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water for the linguine. While that’s going, heat a skillet over medium heat for the chicken.
Combine Ingredients: Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Melt butter in the hot skillet, then add the seasoned chicken.
Assemble the Dish: Sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside. In the same skillet, melt a little more butter, then sauté the garlic until fragrant. Stir in lemon juice and zest.
Cook to Perfection: In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream and Parmesan cheese over low heat until the cheese melts and sauce thickens slightly. Cook linguine according to package instructions, then toss with the cream sauce.
Finishing Touches: Slice the chicken and return it to the lemon garlic pan to soak up some sauce. Spoon it all over the pasta and give everything a gentle toss.
Serve and Enjoy: Plate it up, sprinkle with parsley, and serve hot with extra Parmesan on the side. You deserve this!
Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 520
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
How to Serve Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Linguine
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- Serve with garlic bread to mop up every drop of that dreamy sauce.
- Pair with a crisp Caesar salad or arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette.
- Add roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli on the side for extra veg.
- Top with toasted pine nuts or crushed red pepper flakes for texture and heat.
- Serve with a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling lemonade.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- Let your chicken rest a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
- Don’t let the cream sauce boil—low and slow keeps it smooth and silky.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melt.
- Want extra lemon kick? Add a second round of zest just before serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently to keep the sauce from separating.
FAQ’s
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Thighs are juicier and add even more flavor just adjust the cooking time as needed.
2. Can I make this dairy-free?
You can use dairy-free butter and cream alternatives, but the flavor will be a little different.
3. Can I prep this ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the chicken and pasta separately, then reheat and combine before serving.
4. Is it okay to use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh is best for flavor, but bottled will work in a pinch.
5. What can I substitute for Parmesan?
Pecorino Romano or Asiago are great alternatives for a slightly sharper taste.
6. How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer internal temp should hit 165°F.
7. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or peas are delicious add-ins.
8. How can I make this spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
9. Can I use other pasta shapes?
Sure! Fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne will all work beautifully.
10. How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
Conclusion
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Linguine is one of those comfort meals that’s simple enough for a weekday but feels like a fancy treat. It’s got that perfect mix of richness, brightness, and melt-in-your-mouth goodness. If you’re ready to impress yourself and anyone else lucky enough to grab a fork this is your dish. One bite, and you’ll know it’s a keeper.
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Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Linguine
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Halal
Description
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Linguine is a bright and savory dish combining juicy, pan-seared chicken in a zesty lemon-garlic butter sauce with rich, cheesy linguine for a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side or until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add remaining butter and garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add lemon juice and zest. Stir and simmer for 1–2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits.
- Meanwhile, cook linguine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Add cream to the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add cooked linguine to the sauce and toss to coat.
- Slice the chicken and place on top of the pasta. Spoon lemon garlic butter sauce over the top. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for juicier meat if preferred.
- Add spinach or peas to the pasta for a veggie boost.
- Thin the sauce with pasta water if it gets too thick.
- Grate fresh Parmesan for best flavor and melting.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
Keywords: lemon garlic chicken, creamy parmesan pasta, chicken linguine, skillet dinner, pasta with sauce