Looking for a dish that combines bold flavours with creamy comfort? Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken over Parmesan Linguine is about to become your new favourite recipe. Juicy chicken thighs seared to perfection and draped in a zesty garlic butter sauce are served over silky, parmesan-coated linguine. Quick, easy, and brimming with flavour, this hearty yet elegant meal will satisfy everyone at the table. Whether you’re making dinner for a special occasion or just spicing up a weekday meal, this recipe has you covered.

Ingredients List 🛒

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this showstopper dish:

Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• Salt & black pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp paprika

Sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

Pasta:

• 8 oz linguine, cooked
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

Garnish:

• Chopped parsley
• Chilli flakes (optional for heat)

Substitutions & Suggestions

• Substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts or turkey cutlets.
• Use fettuccine or spaghetti if linguine isn’t available.
• For a dairy-free version, replace heavy cream with coconut cream and parmesan with a vegan alternative.

Step-by-Step Instructions 👩🍳

Creating this delicious recipe is simple and foolproof. Follow these steps:

1️⃣ Season the Chicken:

Pat dry the chicken thighs with a paper towel. Season generously with salt, black pepper, and paprika.

2️⃣ Sear the Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook for about 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3️⃣ Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce:

Using the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add the butter, allowing it to melt. Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Then add lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, letting the flavours combine.

4️⃣ Thicken the Sauce:

Slowly stir in the heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese. Continue cooking until the sauce slightly thickens, about 2 minutes.

5️⃣ Combine with Pasta:

Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce.

6️⃣ Serve and Garnish:

Place the chicken thighs over the pasta. Top with extra parmesan, parsley, and a sprinkle of chilli flakes for added heat (optional). Serve immediately and enjoy!

Health Benefits

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken over Parmesan Linguine doesn’t just taste amazing—it also has nutritional perks:

• Lemon juice and zest provide a burst of vitamin C, boosting your immune system.
• Chicken thighs are an excellent source of high-quality protein, keeping you energised.
• Garlic is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and heart health benefits.

Enjoy this balanced meal that pairs indulgence with wholesome ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Hosting friends or treating yourself? Here’s how to level up your meal presentation:

• Side dishes: Pair with a crisp arugula salad or roasted asparagus.
• Drinks: Complement the tangy lemon notes with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with a lemon twist.
• Presentation: Serve on a large white platter to highlight the vibrant colours of the dish.

Recipe Variations

Want to mix things up? Here are some fun ideas:

• Add baby spinach or cherry tomatoes to the sauce for added nutrients and vibrant colour.
• Swap chicken for shrimp or salmon for a seafood twist.
• For a spicy kick, stir in a teaspoon of red pepper flakes while making the sauce.
• Replace linguine with zucchini noodles for a lighter, low-carb alternative.

Tips & Tricks for Perfecting the Dish

Here’s how to take your Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken over Parmesan Linguine from good to wow-worthy:

• Don’t rush the sear: Ensure the chicken is golden and slightly crisp. This locks in the juices and maximises flavour.
• Save pasta water: Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
• Grate your parmesan fresh: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of the sauce.

Storage & Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), follow these tips to keep the dish fresh:

• Storage: Store the chicken and pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce.

Mistakes to Avoid

Even a simple dish like this one has a few pitfalls. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Overcrowding the skillet: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to get that perfect golden sear.
• Skipping the lemon zest: It may feel like a small detail, but lemon zest adds an intense citrus aroma that truly elevates the dish.
• Overcooking the chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure every thigh reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prep the chicken and sauce separately. Reheat them together while cooking fresh pasta for the best taste.

2. How do I adjust the sauce consistency?

If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water. If it’s too thin, simmer for a couple more minutes.

3. Can I freeze this dish?

While the sauce may change slightly in texture, you can freeze the cooked chicken and pasta for up to 2 months. Reheat with a splash of cream.

4. What’s the best way to avoid clumping in the sauce?

Add the parmesan cheese gradually over low heat and stir constantly for a smooth, creamy finish.

Give Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken a Try Tonight!

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken over Parmesan Linguine is the perfect recipe to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a comforting, gourmet meal. Its bright and rich flavours will have you coming back for seconds (or thirds). Don’t wait any longer to experience sheer deliciousness—we promise you’ll love every bite!