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Homemade Lemon Butter Garlic Chicken Pasta recipe photo

Lemon Butter Garlic Chicken Pasta

This Lemon Butter Garlic Chicken Pasta is a flavor-packed delight! Enjoy tender chicken and pasta in a rich garlic butter sauce with a bright lemon twist.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta:
  • 1 pound penne pasta cooked according to package directions
For the Chicken:
  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast diced into bite-sized pieces
  • 1+ teaspoon kosher salt or to taste
  • 1+ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper or to taste
  • 3 to 5 cloves garlic finely minced or pressed
  • ¾ cup unsalted butter softened to room temperature if possible
  • ½ cup lemon juice or to taste
  • ¼ to ½ cup fresh Italian flat-leaf parsley finely minced
  • ¾ cup freshly shaved Parmesan cheese or to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Colander
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Knife and cutting board

Method
 

Cooking Instructions:
  1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast to the skillet. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Sauté the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
  3. Once the chicken is cooked, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not burnt.
  4. Add the softened butter and lemon juice to the skillet with the chicken and garlic. Stir until the butter has melted and the sauce is well combined. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
  5. Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly in the lemon butter garlic sauce.
  6. Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle in the minced parsley and shaved Parmesan cheese. Toss to combine and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Feel free to swap penne for other small pasta shapes like ziti or rotini.
  • For a healthier option, choose whole wheat pasta.
  • Consider adding vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition.