There is something truly irresistible about this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe that makes it a standout weeknight dinner or a special occasion treat. Imagine tender, golden chicken breasts kissed with zesty lemon and garlicky butter sauce paired with rich, luscious Parmesan pasta that melts in your mouth. Each bite is a perfect harmony of tangy, buttery, and savory flavors wrapped in a creamy comfort that feels both elegant and hearty. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to the kitchen, this recipe is guaranteed to become a beloved classic on your dinner table.

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What’s beautiful about the ingredients for this dish is how straightforward yet impactful they are. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and even a pop of color, resulting in a dish that tastes much more complex than the effort it requires.

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that soaks up all that lemon garlic butter goodness.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps achieve a golden sear while adding a subtle fruity aroma.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Essential for the rich, silky sauce that hugs the chicken and pasta.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant punch that pairs beautifully with lemon and butter.
Juice of ½ lemon (about 1 tablespoon): Adds bright, fresh acidity to balance the creaminess.
Zest of ½ lemon (optional): A boost of lemon flavor with a lovely citrusy aroma.
Salt and black pepper, to taste: The simplest seasoning that elevates every element perfectly.
½ teaspoon paprika (optional): Adds warmth and a touch of smoky depth to the chicken.
200 g pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne): Your canvas for creating that creamy Parmesan indulgence.
1 tablespoon butter: For a luscious base to the sauce that coats the pasta.
2 cloves garlic, minced: A double dose of garlicky love that never disappoints.
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half): Key to that irresistibly creamy texture.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: The umami-rich star that brings depth and richness.
¼ cup reserved pasta water: The secret ingredient for a silkier sauce that clings perfectly.
Chopped parsley, for garnish: Adds a fresh, vibrant touch that brightens the plate.

How to Make Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by slicing the chicken breasts horizontally to create thinner cutlets that cook evenly and quickly. Season each side with salt, pepper, and paprika for a subtle smoky undertone. Heat olive oil and butter together in a skillet until shimmering. Add the chicken and cook it for about 4 to 5 minutes per side until it turns a beautiful golden brown and is cooked through. Once it’s perfectly seared, set it aside to rest—this step locks in those juicy flavors you’ll love.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

With the same pan still warm, reduce the heat to medium and toss in the minced garlic. Let it sauté briefly—just about 30 seconds—until your kitchen fills with that irresistible garlicky aroma. Pour in fresh lemon juice and zest if you’re using it, stirring well to lift any flavorful browned bits clinging to the pan. Return the chicken to the skillet, basting it generously with this tangy garlic butter sauce. It’s incredible how this sauce ties everything together with such brightness and richness.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is soaking up the sauce, boil a large pot of salted water for your chosen pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, meaning just tender but still with a bit of bite. Don’t forget to reserve about a quarter cup of pasta water before draining—it’s the magic ingredient that will help your sauce reach the perfect consistency later.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

In a clean pan, melt a tablespoon of butter over medium heat and add the minced garlic once again to infuse the sauce with that signature flavor. Pour in the heavy cream and gently bring it to a simmer, letting it thicken slightly as it cooks. Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese until smooth and glossy, then thin out the sauce with reserved pasta water if needed. Season with salt and black pepper, and you have a silky sauce that’s downright dreamy.

Step 5: Combine

Now comes the best part: tossing your perfectly al dente pasta in the creamy Parmesan sauce until every strand is luxuriously coated. Plate the pasta first, then nestle the lemon garlic butter chicken on top, finishing with a generous spoonful of that luscious pan sauce. A sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese seals the deal, making sure every bite is bursting with flavor and color.

How to Serve Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley not only add a vibrant green pop of color but also a crisp, fresh bite that cuts through the richness. A light dusting of extra Parmesan cheese on top enhances the savory depth and adds a nice texture contrast.

Side Dishes

Pair this dish with crisp green vegetables like steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach to add a healthy crunch and color contrast. A fresh mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette would also complement the buttery pasta perfectly by introducing brightness and a refreshing element to the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch, serve the chicken and pasta in shallow bowls to catch all the delicious sauce. Drizzle a little extra lemon garlic butter sauce over the plate for an inviting sheen. You can also place thin lemon slices or a sprig of rosemary on the side for a beautiful and appetizing visual presentation that will impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers of this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe, store the chicken and pasta separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This prevents the pasta from soaking up too much sauce and helps maintain the freshness of both components.

Freezing

You can freeze the chicken and pasta separately as well. Wrap the chicken breasts tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. The creamy pasta freezes well too but may thicken upon thawing, so reserve extra cream or milk to loosen it when reheating.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over low heat to keep it juicy. Warm the pasta sauce on the stove with a splash of cream or pasta water to revive its creamy consistency. Then combine and enjoy as if it were freshly made—simple, comforting, and delicious every time.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for this recipe?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will bring a juicier and slightly more flavorful profile to the dish, though you may want to adjust cooking time slightly as thighs can be thicker and contain more fat.

Is there a lighter alternative for the cream in the Parmesan sauce?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk for a lighter sauce. Just keep in mind that the sauce might be less thick and creamy, so adjust the amount of Parmesan or cook it a little longer to thicken.

How can I add vegetables to this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe?

Great question! Adding spinach, steamed broccoli, or even sun-dried tomatoes to the pasta sauce or tossing them in when combining the pasta can introduce fresh veggies and extra flavor without overpowering the dish.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Definitely! Just swap regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta variety. The other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so the dish remains just as delicious for those avoiding gluten.

What wine pairs well with this meal?

Crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or a light Chardonnay complement the bright lemon flavors and creamy Parmesan sauce perfectly, enhancing your dining experience.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the comforting yet vibrant flavors of this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe. It brings the kind of warmth and satisfaction that makes dinner feel special without complicated prep or hard-to-find ingredients. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how easily it can become your new favorite go-to meal for any night of the week.