Directions
Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining, then set the linguine aside.
Step 2: Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Toss to coat evenly.
Step 3: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 4: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the lemon zest and juice, mixing well. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the lemon garlic butter sauce. Keep warm.
Step 5: In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in the heavy cream, allowing it to warm through. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Combine the cooked linguine with the Parmesan sauce, tossing until the pasta is fully coated. Use the reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency, if needed.
Step 7: Serve the creamy Parmesan linguine on a plate and top it with the lemon garlic butter chicken bites. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe shines because it balances indulgent flavors with a bright, refreshing twist. The butter and Parmesan create a velvety richness, while the lemon adds a pop of acidity that cuts through the creaminess, keeping the dish from feeling too heavy. The chicken, with its golden crust and tender interior, complements the pasta perfectly. Plus, it’s all made with simple ingredients that come together in under an hour!
Variations
This dish is wonderfully versatile, making it easy to adapt to suit different tastes or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:
Seafood Swap: Replace the chicken with shrimp or scallops for a coastal-inspired version. The lemon garlic butter sauce pairs beautifully with seafood.
Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted cherry tomatoes for a plant-based twist.
Low-Carb Option: Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of linguine to create a keto-friendly version.
Cheese Alternatives: Try Pecorino Romano or Asiago in place of Parmesan for a unique flavor profile.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken seasoning or the sauce for a subtle kick.
Cooking Notes
Chicken Tips: Cut the chicken into evenly sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Avoid overcrowding the skillet to achieve a golden sear.
Creamy Sauce: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best results. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
Pasta Water Magic: The starchy water from the pasta helps bind the sauce and gives it a silky texture. Don’t skip this step!
Lemon Zest: For maximum flavor, use a microplane to zest the lemon, but be careful not to include the bitter white pith.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a few complementary sides:
Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Fresh Salad: A light arugula or mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
Steamed Vegetables: Try steamed asparagus or green beans for a simple, healthy side.
Tips
Meal Prep: Chop the chicken, mince the garlic, and zest the lemon in advance to streamline the cooking process.
Reheating: If you have leftovers, reheat the pasta gently over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to keep the sauce creamy.
Double It: This recipe is easy to double, making it a great choice for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try different herbs or spices to make this dish uniquely yours!
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