A Comforting and Zesty Pasta Dish That Everyone Will Love
Looking for the perfect weeknight dinner that’s quick, creamy, and packed with bold flavor? This Creamy Parmesan Linguine with Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites might just become your new favorite. It’s a winning combination of juicy, tender chicken coated in a fragrant lemon garlic butter sauce paired with silky linguine tossed in a rich and cheesy Parmesan cream sauce. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, entertaining guests, or simply craving something cozy and satisfying, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
Let’s get into how you can bring this mouthwatering meal to life in just 30 minutes.
Tools Needed, Serving Size, and Cooking Time
Before diving into the recipe, here’s what you’ll need and a few quick facts:
Tools Required:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Strainer
- Large skillet
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Zester or microplane
- Knife and cutting board
Cooking Time: 30 minutes total
Serves: 4 people
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 3 tbsp butter, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Parmesan Linguine:
- 8 oz linguine
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Linguine
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining. Set the cooked pasta aside and keep it warm.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Toss to coat evenly.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and sauté for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing it in the lemon garlic sauce. Turn off the heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
Step 5: Create the Parmesan Cream Sauce
In a separate medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Pour in the heavy cream and add garlic powder. Stir until the mixture is heated and smooth. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the sauce is creamy and lump-free. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Step 6: Toss the Pasta
Add the cooked linguine to the Parmesan sauce, tossing to evenly coat every strand with the creamy mixture. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 7: Serve
Plate the creamy Parmesan linguine alongside the lemon garlic chicken bites. Garnish with extra parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for that picture-perfect finish.
Recommendations for Recipe Success
- Use room temperature ingredients: Let your chicken and cream sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking and smooth sauce consistency.
- Fresh lemon is key: Don’t skip the zest—it’s what gives the dish that bright, fresh pop.
- Grate your own Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of the sauce. For the best melt and flavor, grate fresh Parmesan.
- Don’t overcook the chicken: Keep an eye on it and remove it from the heat once it’s just cooked through.
- Add pasta water gradually: This starchy liquid helps emulsify the sauce and cling to the noodles perfectly.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions: Serve this dish immediately while it’s warm and fresh. Add a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted veggies to turn this into a complete meal.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or milk to bring back the creamy texture when warming on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes! Fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne work well with this creamy sauce. Just adjust the cook time according to the package instructions.
2. What can I substitute for heavy cream? If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may be slightly thinner.
3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are juicier and work just as well in this recipe.
4. Is this dish freezer-friendly? Cream-based sauces don’t always reheat well after freezing, as they can separate. It’s best enjoyed fresh or from the fridge within a few days.
5. How can I make this dish vegetarian? Skip the chicken and use roasted vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for a vegetarian twist.
Conclusion
Creamy Parmesan Linguine with Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites is the ultimate comfort food with a sophisticated twist. The bright lemon and garlic-infused chicken perfectly complement the richness of the Parmesan cream sauce, making each bite irresistible. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for a dinner party.
Try it tonight and see why it’s a favorite in so many kitchens. Whether you’re cooking for guests or treating yourself, this dish promises bold flavor, hearty satisfaction, and a comforting experience all in one plate.
