Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Introduction

If you’re a fan of easy chicken dinners that strike the perfect balance between indulgent and approachable, this one’s for you. This creamy, dreamy Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is packed with bright lemon, rich parmesan, and that ever-so-irresistible garlic butter flavor.

But here’s the kicker: it’s made in just one pan.

Yup, no mountain of dishes, no complicated steps — just simple ingredients, cooked to perfection. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or your own cravings on a weeknight, this recipe fits the bill. And if you’ve ever wondered how to make a restaurant-style creamy chicken pasta at home, you’re about to find out — step-by-step.

Let’s dive right into the heart of this flavorful feast.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Nothing fancy here — just everyday ingredients that, when combined the right way, bring out extraordinary flavor. From juicy chicken breasts to creamy parmesan pasta, every component plays a crucial role in this comfort food masterpiece.

Chicken Ingredients

The key to tender, flavorful chicken is seasoning and searing. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved horizontally to make 4 thinner pieces
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, for light dredging
1 teaspoon salt and a pinch of cracked black pepper
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning, for herbaceous depth
2 tablespoons finely grated parmesan cheese (freshly grated is a must)
1 tablespoon olive oil, for searing
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, for that signature buttery flavor
Zest and juice of 1 lemon, to brighten and balance
3 cloves garlic, minced, for that bold, aromatic base

Tip: Use fresh lemon juice, not bottled — it’s a game changer.

Creamy Parmesan Pasta Ingredients

This part of the dish is rich, velvety, and just the right amount of indulgent. The pasta soaks up the lemony garlic sauce while the parmesan takes it to the next level.

½ pound pasta (fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne are perfect choices)
1¼ cups chicken broth (low sodium works best)
½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half, depending on your preference
⅓ cup parmesan cheese, finely grated (the real stuff!)
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
2 tablespoons garlic, minced (yes, more garlic!)
2–3 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
1 teaspoon cornstarch, mixed with 1 tablespoon of water (optional, to thicken)
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish and color

Fun fact: The acidity of lemon actually helps balance the richness of the cream, making this dish feel lighter than you’d expect.

Optional Add-ins & Tasty Substitutes

Want to tweak it to your liking? This dish is super versatile.

Vegetables: Add spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or sun-dried tomatoes
Protein swaps: Use shrimp, salmon, or tofu instead of chicken
Dairy-free? Swap cream with coconut cream and use vegan parmesan
Gluten-free? Choose gluten-free pasta like brown rice or chickpea pasta

According to Barilla’s Pasta Guide, shorter pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni hold creamy sauces especially well — so keep that in mind if you want to experiment with texture!

Recommended Kitchen Tools

Have these tools ready for a smoother, fuss-free cooking experience:

A large skillet or sauté pan for cooking the chicken and sauce
A pasta pot for boiling noodles
Zester for lemon zest
Tongs for flipping chicken
A fine grater for fresh parmesan
A whisk to keep the sauce creamy and lump-free

Prep tip: Get all your ingredients chopped, measured, and lined up before turning on the heat. It makes cooking feel like a breeze — even for beginners!

**How to Make Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Step-by-Step**

Bringing together golden-seared chicken and a lusciously creamy parmesan pasta might sound like a culinary feat, but trust me — you don’t need to be a pro chef. This easy chicken pasta recipe is beginner-friendly and ridiculously satisfying. Let’s break it down step-by-step.

Sear the Garlic Butter Chicken Until Golden and Juicy

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken dry — always dry for a good sear! Slice each breast in half horizontally, making four thin cutlets.

Season them generously with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs, then dredge each piece in a mix of flour and freshly grated parmesan. This light coating helps form a crispy, golden crust when seared.

It’s like chicken piccata, but with a creamy twist.

Step 2: Sauté in Garlic Butter

Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot and shimmering (but not smoking!), place the chicken cutlets in the pan.

Cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, until both sides are deeply golden and cooked through. You’ll know they’re ready when the juices run clear and the crust is lightly crisp.

Remove the chicken and set aside on a warm plate. Don’t wipe the skillet — that flavor-packed fond is liquid gold for your sauce!

Build the Creamy Lemon Parmesan Sauce

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly so it doesn’t burn. That rich aroma? It’s the base of your lemon garlic butter sauce.

Step 4: Deglaze and Simmer

Add the chicken broth to the pan and use a wooden spoon to scrape up all the browned bits from the bottom. These bits are full of deep, savory flavor.

Now, stir in the heavy cream and bring everything to a gentle simmer — not a rolling boil. We’re building that creamy texture here, not scorching it.

Next, mix in the parmesan cheese and let it melt into the sauce. Add your lemon juice and a bit of zest for that tangy lift.

Need a thicker sauce? Stir in the cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water), and it’ll thicken up in seconds.

Want to avoid sauce separation? Don’t skip the science of creamy sauces — warming your cream first and keeping the simmer gentle makes all the difference.

Cook the Pasta to Al Dente Perfection

Step 5: Boil the Pasta

While the sauce simmers, cook your pasta in salted water according to the package instructions — usually 8–10 minutes. Go for al dente (a little bite in the middle), as it’ll finish cooking in the sauce.

Before draining, save about ½ cup of pasta water. This starchy liquid helps the sauce cling beautifully to your noodles.

Combine Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce

Step 6: Toss It All Together

Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the creamy lemon parmesan sauce. Toss it gently to coat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen it up.

Then, nestle the chicken back into the pan, letting it soak up that velvety garlic butter sauce for a minute or two.

Bonus points if you spoon extra sauce over each piece of chicken. You’ll want every bite drenched!

Step 7: Finish and Garnish

Turn off the heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley and a little extra parmesan. Add lemon slices for visual flair if you’re feeling fancy.

Now take a moment to admire your skillet. Creamy pasta? Check. Golden chicken? Check. Smells like heaven? You bet.

Delicious Variations of Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

One of the best things about this creamy, flavor-packed pasta dish? It’s incredibly adaptable. Whether you’re trying to make it low-carb, vegetarian, or just want to shake things up with different proteins and flavors — this garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe has endless possibilities.

Let’s explore some easy, tasty twists that’ll keep your meals exciting and never repetitive.

Switch Up the Protein: Beyond Chicken

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

If you’re craving seafood, swap out the chicken for shrimp! Just sauté peeled, deveined shrimp in garlic butter until pink and tender — about 2–3 minutes per side — then toss them into your creamy parmesan sauce.

Shrimp pairs beautifully with the lemony garlic base and gives the dish a fresh, coastal vibe.

Garlic Butter Salmon with Creamy Pasta

Want something heartier? A pan-seared salmon filet nestled over creamy lemon pasta is next-level. Cook your salmon skin-side down first for that perfect crispiness. A light drizzle of garlic butter over the top is pure magic.

Vegetarian Option: Creamy Lemon Garlic Mushroom Pasta

No meat? No problem! Sauté mushrooms in olive oil and garlic until golden brown. Add them right into the cream sauce and you’ve got a meatless meal bursting with umami and texture.

Want to go even further? Add:

Spinach for freshness
Roasted red peppers for sweetness
Zucchini for a lighter bite

These options turn your dish into a colorful, veggie-forward feast!

Going Low-Carb or Keto? Try These Swaps

Love creamy chicken pasta but watching your carbs? Swap out the pasta and you’re good to go.

Zoodles (spiralized zucchini noodles) – Light, crisp, and soak up the sauce beautifully
Spaghetti squash – Roasted and pulled into strands, it’s surprisingly satisfying
Cauliflower rice – Especially good when you want something quick and keto

The lemon garlic chicken still shines, and the rich parmesan sauce works like a charm on these low-carb bases.

Dairy-Free & Gluten-Free Adaptations

Dairy-Free Option

Making this creamy lemon chicken pasta dairy-free is easier than you think:

Use coconut cream or unsweetened oat cream instead of heavy cream
Swap parmesan with a good vegan parmesan-style cheese
Opt for plant-based butter, like olive oil-based spreads

It’s still creamy, still comforting, but suitable for lactose-intolerant or vegan guests.

Gluten-Free Pasta Options

According to Barilla’s Pasta Guide, there’s a perfect pasta shape for every sauce — even gluten-free ones. Try:

Chickpea pasta for added protein
Brown rice pasta for a neutral flavor
Quinoa pasta for a slightly nutty twist

Just be sure not to overcook gluten-free noodles — they go from al dente to mush quickly!

Turn It Into a Casserole or Bake

Want to make this ahead for a family dinner or potluck? Turn it into a cheesy baked casserole:

Toss pasta, chicken, and sauce together in a baking dish
Top with shredded mozzarella or extra parmesan
Bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden

Serve it with a side of roasted veggies or garlic bread and watch it disappear fast.

So whether you’re in the mood for shrimp, salmon, or a low-carb version, this flexible garlic butter chicken pasta can match any craving or dietary need.

Next, let’s dive into some Flavor Enhancements and Pro Tips to make your dish even more irresistible.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Curious about substitutions, cooking tips, or making this recipe ahead of time? You’re not alone. Here are the most commonly asked questions — and honest, practical answers — about this creamy, garlicky, lemony chicken pasta masterpiece.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely, yes! In fact, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a fantastic alternative. They’re juicier and a bit more forgiving when cooked, especially in buttery or creamy sauces.

Just make sure to:

Trim excess fat
Adjust cooking time (they may take slightly longer than thin breasts)
Still sear on medium-high for a golden crust

Whether you go with thighs or breasts, the lemon garlic butter chicken will still shine.

How do I keep the sauce from curdling?

Ah, the dreaded curdled sauce — let’s avoid that!

Here’s how to make your creamy parmesan pasta sauce silky-smooth:

Use room temperature cream to prevent shocking the sauce
Simmer gently, don’t boil — low heat is key
Add lemon juice last, after the cream thickens
Whisk frequently to keep everything emulsified

And remember, avoid pre-shredded cheese. As noted by Serious Eats, it can cause grainy textures due to anti-caking agents.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You sure can — with a few smart steps.

To meal prep:

Cook everything, then cool and refrigerate in airtight containers
Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce
Keep the chicken and pasta stored separately if possible for the best texture

While it tastes freshest right off the stove, leftovers are still incredibly tasty the next day!

What kind of pasta works best with creamy garlic parmesan sauce?

Great question — not all pasta is created equal when it comes to sauce cling!

Best choices for this creamy lemon garlic butter sauce:

Fettuccine – wide and flat, made for creamy sauces
Penne or rigatoni – the ridges hold onto every drop
Spaghetti – a classic for twirling and slurping

You can also check out the Barilla Pasta Shape Guide to experiment with pairings.

Can I make this dish without dairy?

Yes, you can still enjoy a dairy-free garlic chicken pasta version! Just make these swaps:

Coconut cream or oat-based cream in place of dairy cream
Vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor
Plant-based butter or just use olive oil

You’ll still get that creamy, garlicky, lemony goodness — just in a lighter, plant-powered form.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Definitely. Kids love the creamy texture and mild garlic flavor. To make it even more family-friendly:

Skip capers (if using)
Cut the lemon juice slightly
Use a milder pasta shape like shells or rotini

And don’t be surprised if they ask for seconds — or thirds.

Ready to bring it all together with a few final touches? Let’s finish strong in the next part with serving tips, side ideas, and how to plate like a pro!

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