Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta

If you’re in the mood for a flavorful and satisfying dinner, look no further than Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta. This recipe combines the richness of garlicky chicken with the creamy, zesty goodness of lemon parmesan pasta. It’s an ideal meal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. With just a few key ingredients, you’ll be able to prepare a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Ingredients for Lemon Parmesan Pasta:

• 8 ounces of pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your favorite pasta)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lemon, zest and juice
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning (if using). In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and the remaining tablespoon of butter. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. You can use the garlic butter to drizzle over the chicken once it’s served, adding an extra boost of flavor.

2. Prepare the Lemon Parmesan Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water.

In a separate pan, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the lemon zest and juice, stirring to combine. Toss in the drained pasta, Parmesan cheese, and reserved pasta water. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated in the buttery, cheesy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Serve the Dish

Slice the garlic butter chicken into strips and serve it on top of the creamy lemon parmesan pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese for added flavor and color.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta Recipe:

1. Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight meal or a last-minute dinner party.
2. Flavorful and Comforting: The garlic butter chicken is rich and savory, while the lemon parmesan pasta adds a tangy, creamy element that balances the dish perfectly.
3. Customizable: You can easily swap the chicken for other proteins like shrimp or turkey, or make the pasta gluten-free by using a gluten-free pasta option.
4. Family-Friendly: This recipe is a hit with both adults and kids, thanks to its mild yet delicious flavors.

Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta:

• Chicken Tips: Make sure not to overcook the chicken; use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Pasta Cooking Tip: Reserve pasta water before draining. The starchy water helps create a silkier, creamier pasta sauce.
• Add Vegetables: Consider adding vegetables like spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes to enhance the dish’s flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts:

Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta is the perfect marriage of savory, creamy, and tangy flavors. It’s an easy, one-pan meal that will make everyone at the table ask for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a special dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the comforting flavors of garlic butter chicken paired with the luscious lemon parmesan pasta – a meal that’s simple yet packed with deliciousness!

Serving and Storage Tips for Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta

To ensure your Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta remains as delicious as when it’s first prepared, follow these handy serving and storage tips.

Serving Tips:

1. Pair with Sides:
   This dish pairs wonderfully with a light green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread. The freshness of a simple side salad will complement the richness of the chicken and pasta.
2. Garnish:
   For a fresh, colorful touch, garnish the dish with extra fresh parsley, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and even a few lemon wedges on the side. The lemon wedges allow each person to add more citrus for an extra burst of flavor.
3. Serve Immediately:
   For the best experience, serve the dish immediately after it’s prepared. The garlic butter chicken will be tender and juicy, while the lemon parmesan pasta will be creamy and perfectly coated.
4. Family-Style Presentation:
   If you’re serving a group, place the chicken on top of the pasta and bring the entire pan to the table for a family-style meal. This presentation is not only impressive but encourages a more casual, communal dining experience.

Storage Tips:

1. Storing Leftovers:
   If you have any leftovers, store the chicken and pasta separately to prevent the pasta from absorbing too much of the sauce and becoming soggy. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
2. Reheating:
   Reheat the chicken and pasta gently to prevent overcooking or drying out. For the pasta, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to the sauce to help restore its creamy texture. Heat the chicken in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
3. Freezing:
   While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the garlic butter chicken and pasta for later. Place the chicken and pasta in separate freezer-safe containers. The chicken will stay good for up to 3 months, while the pasta can be frozen for up to 2 months. When reheating from frozen, allow the dish to thaw in the fridge overnight before warming.

Additional Tips:

• To Keep the Pasta Creamy: When storing leftovers, the pasta may absorb some of the sauce. To keep it creamy, add a small amount of cream, butter, or chicken broth when reheating.
• To Maintain Tender Chicken: Reheat the chicken gently, as high heat can cause it to dry out. If you have leftover garlic butter sauce, drizzle it over the chicken to add flavor and moisture.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta remains a flavorful and satisfying meal even after the first serving!

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier, more flavorful cut of meat. Thighs tend to stay tender and moist when cooked, so they make a great alternative. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as chicken thighs may take slightly longer to cook through.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, you can prep some components ahead of time. You can cook the chicken and pasta in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken and pasta, then toss with the lemon parmesan sauce for a quick and easy meal.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. Be sure to check the labels of other ingredients like butter and Parmesan cheese to ensure they are gluten-free. With these adjustments, the recipe will be just as delicious and suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

4. How can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

To add more veggies, consider incorporating spinach, peas, or roasted vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes into the pasta. You can also serve the dish alongside a salad for an extra boost of freshness. If you want to mix the veggies directly into the pasta, just toss them in with the lemon parmesan sauce at the end.

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