Name: Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1/2 tsp Paprika (for seasoning); 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning (for seasoning); 3 tbsp Butter, divided (room temperature is fine); 3 cloves Garlic, minced; 1 each Lemon, zest and juice (zest finely grated; juice freshly squeezed); 8 oz Linguine, uncooked; 3/4 cup Grated Parmesan cheese, finely grated; 1/2 cup Heavy cream; 1/2 tsp Garlic powder

Jump to Recipe

Creamy, juicy, and loaded with bright lemony flavor, Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta is one of those weeknight winners that feels like a restaurant meal but comes together in no time. Picture tender bite-sized chicken tossed in a silky garlic-parmesan sauce hugging al dente linguine — comforting, elegant, and honestly a little addictive. Fun fact: adding a touch of lemon both brightens the sauce and helps the flavors cling to the pasta better.

This recipe is special because it’s straightforward, family-friendly, and fast enough for busy evenings. It’s perfect when you want something impressive without fuss. If you enjoy variations and step-by-step photos, you can also check the full recipe post with photos for inspiration. Try it tonight and you’ll see why weeknight dinners suddenly feel gourmet.

What is Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta?

Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta sounds like the perfect “what’s-in-your-fridge” dinner, doesn’t it? Who decided to call it that — a committee of flavor lovers? Maybe. The name simply tells you exactly what you’re getting: succulent chicken cooked in garlic butter, brightened with lemon, and tossed with cheesy Parmesan pasta. Is it a love potion? Some might say so — after all, the old saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” Whether you’re cooking for someone special or just treating yourself, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Go on, give it a try and see who falls in love with your cooking.

Why You’ll Love This

Creamy, tangy, and comforting: The silky Parmesan sauce with a hint of lemon creates a luscious coating on the pasta, while the garlic butter chicken adds savory richness and a slightly crisp edge.
Cost-effective and pantry-friendly: Using simple staples like pasta, Parmesan, and butter keeps grocery costs down while delivering a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Flavor-packed without fuss: Fresh lemon, toasted garlic, and just the right seasoning make every bite exciting; garnish with parsley for a fresh finish.

If you liked our other comforting pasta dishes, this one offers a brighter, lemon-forward contrast to heavier cream-based recipes. You’ll want to make it again and again — so grab the ingredients and get cooking!

How to Make

Quick Overview

This recipe is easy and satisfying: a quick pan-sear for the chicken, a simple creamy sauce made in the same skillet, and a toss with linguine. Expect a delightful mix of creamy texture, tender chicken, and zesty lemon. Total time is approximately 25–30 minutes: 10 minutes prep, 15–20 minutes cooking.

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 tsp paprika, for seasoning
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning, for seasoning
3 tbsp butter, divided (room temperature is fine)
3 cloves garlic, minced
Zest and juice of 1 lemon (zest finely grated; juice freshly squeezed)
8 oz linguine, uncooked
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, finely grated
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions

Season the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Make sure pieces are evenly coated so every bite is flavorful.
Heat 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C if you use a thermometer).
Add minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Cook the linguine according to package instructions in salted boiling water. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water before draining the pasta.
In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Stir in heavy cream and garlic powder, whisking until smooth and slightly warmed.
Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese a little at a time until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it to your desired consistency.
Top with the lemony garlic butter chicken, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta

What to Serve With

Simple green salad: mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light lemon vinaigrette to echo the pasta’s brightness.
Garlic bread or crusty baguette: perfect for mopping up extra sauce.
Steamed or roasted vegetables: asparagus, broccoli, or green beans seasoned with a touch of lemon and olive oil.
Light dessert and drink: a citrus sorbet pairs nicely, and a crisp white wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio) complements the lemony sauce.

Top Tips for Perfecting

Chicken size matters: Cut the chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly and in the same amount of time.
Cheese choice: Use freshly grated Parmesan for a silky sauce — pre-grated varieties can be powdery and won’t melt as smoothly.
Lemon balance: Start with the juice of one lemon and adjust to taste; too much lemon can overpower the cream, too little won’t brighten it enough.
Sauce rescue: If the sauce separates or looks grainy, add a splash of reserved pasta water and whisk gently over low heat.
Don’t overcook pasta: Aim for al dente since it will absorb a bit of sauce and remain pleasantly textured.

Also, if you want a playful twist, try our version with chicken balls that’s great for parties — see the recipe for inspiration Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep chicken and pasta together with sauce to retain moisture.
Freezing: This dish is best frozen without the heavy cream if possible; you can freeze the cooked chicken separately for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in a covered dish, adding a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little milk, cream, or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Microwaving works for quick reheats — cover and stir halfway through to avoid drying.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta?
Yes — fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne all work well. Choose a shape that holds the sauce to your liking.

Can I use thighs instead of chicken breast?
Absolutely. Boneless, skinless thighs add extra juiciness and a richer flavor; adjust cooking time slightly if pieces are larger.

Is there a dairy-free version?
You can use a dairy-free butter and cream substitute (such as coconut cream for richness) and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative, though the flavor will change slightly.

How do I make the sauce thicker or thinner?
To thicken, simmer gently to reduce it or add more grated Parmesan. To thin, stir in reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can cook the chicken and pasta separately and assemble just before serving. Store components chilled and reheat gently to combine.

Conclusion

This Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta is proof that quick, simple ingredients can create a memorable meal — creamy, bright, and comforting all at once. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but special enough for company, and the hands-on steps are friendly for cooks of any level. If you want another take on lemony chicken pasta for inspiration, check out this similar recipe for a slightly different creamy lemon pasta experience: Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta – Dishing Out Health. Give it a try, share it with loved ones, and enjoy the applause that follows.