Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta” – Simple Recipes

Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or penne work well)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 1/2 cup pasta water (reserved after cooking)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
   • Before draining, reserve ½ cup of pasta water.
   • Drain pasta and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   • Season chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
   • In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil + 2 tbsp butter over medium-high heat.
   • Add chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through.
   • Add 4 cloves minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Lemon Parmesan Pasta:
   • In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
   • Add 2 cloves minced garlic, cook for 30 seconds.
   • Add cooked pasta, lemon juice + zest, and Parmesan cheese.
   • Pour in reserved pasta water a little at a time, tossing until creamy.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine & Serve:
   • Return the garlic butter chicken to the pan and toss to coat.
   • Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

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Tips:

• Add spinach or broccoli for a veggie boost.
• For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese.
• Use rotisserie chicken to make this even quicker.