Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

🍗  Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

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❓ Q: What ingredients do I need for this dish?

For the Chicken:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced in half to make 4 cutlets)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp paprika

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp butter

• 4 garlic cloves (minced)

• Juice of 1 lemon

• Zest of 1 lemon

• 1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

• 8 oz (225g) fettuccine or linguine

• 1 tbsp butter

• 3 garlic cloves (minced)

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ cup reserved pasta water (as needed)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Optional: ¼ tsp red pepper flakes

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❓ Q: How do I prepare the chicken?

1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika on both sides.

2. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.

3. Add chicken and cook for about 4–5 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through.

4. Remove chicken and set aside.

5. In the same pan, lower heat and add garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest.

6. Scrape up brown bits for flavor and simmer for 1 minute.

7. Return chicken to the pan to coat with the lemon garlic butter sauce. Remove from heat.

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❓ Q: How do I make the creamy Parmesan pasta?

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.

2. In a separate saucepan or the same skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat.

3. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.

4. Pour in heavy cream and simmer for 2–3 minutes.

5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

6. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, a little at a time.

7. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

8. Toss cooked pasta into the sauce until well coated.

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❓ Q: How do I serve it all together?

• Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta first.

• Slice the lemon garlic butter chicken and lay it on top.

• Spoon some of the lemon butter from the skillet over the chicken.

• Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan, if desired.

• Serve immediately with a wedge of lemon.

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❓ Q: Can I make this ahead of time or meal prep it?

Yes! Keep the chicken and pasta in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce.

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❓ Q: Any tips or variations?

• Swap chicken for shrimp or salmon for a seafood twist.

• Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the pasta for extra flavor and nutrients.

• Use half-and-half instead of cream for a lighter version (but it won’t be as rich).

• Gluten-free pasta works well in this dish.