Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Linguine: A Quick, Elegant, and Flavorful Weeknight Dinner

Ingredients

For the Chicken (Serves 4):

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Parmesan Linguine:

• 12 oz (340g) linguine
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
• ¾ cup (75g) grated Parmesan cheese
• Juice of ½ lemon (about 1 ½ tablespoons)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for extra flavor)

Preparation

Step 1: Cook the Linguine

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
2. Stir in lemon juice and zest, scraping the skillet. Simmer for 1–2 minutes.
3. Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the sauce. Keep warm.

Step 4: Make the Parmesan Linguine

1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
2. Stir in heavy cream and simmer for 2 minutes. Add Parmesan, lemon juice, and zest. Stir until smooth.
3. Toss linguine in the sauce, adding pasta water if needed. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

1. Plate the linguine, top with chicken, and drizzle with sauce.
2. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately.

Pro Tips

• Flatten Chicken: Pound breasts for even cooking.
• Add Veggies: Include spinach, asparagus, or broccoli.
• Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: Garlic, butter, lemon, and Parmesan create a perfect blend.
• Quick and Elegant: Ideal for weeknights or entertaining.
• Versatile: Pair with pasta, rice, or roasted veggies.

Enjoy this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Linguine as a satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal. Perfect for any occasion!