Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine
Introduction
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine is a delicious and easy meal that brings fresh flavors to your table. The tender chicken pieces are coated in a zesty lemon and garlic butter sauce, while the linguine pasta is mixed with cheesy goodness. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a great choice for several reasons. Firstly, it’s simple to prepare, requiring just a few ingredients that you likely already have at home. Secondly, the flavors of lemon and garlic make the dish bright and vibrant, while the butter adds richness. Lastly, it’s a complete meal, combining protein and carbs, making it satisfying without being too heavy.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- 8 oz (225g) linguine pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- Cook the linguine according to package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.
- In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
- Add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Season them with paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 6–8 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Stir in the lemon juice and zest. Cook for another minute, then remove the skillet from the heat.
- In another skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the cooked linguine, reserved pasta water, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated and creamy.
- Plate the linguine and top it with the lemon garlic butter chicken bites. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
How to Serve Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine
Serve the Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites hot, directly from the skillet to the plate. It pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Add extra grated Parmesan cheese on top for some extra flavor.
How to Store Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 3 days. Reheat the dish in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to bring back the creaminess.
Tips to Make Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine
- Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken. This helps it brown nicely.
- For added flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice instead of bottled juice.
- You can experiment with other herbs like thyme or oregano to enhance the taste further.
Variation
You can easily modify this recipe by substituting the chicken with shrimp or turkey for a different protein option. If you want a vegetarian version, try using chickpeas and sautéed vegetables instead of meat.
FAQs
1. Can I use whole wheat linguine for this recipe?
Yes, whole wheat linguine is a healthy alternative and works well in this dish.
2. What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the chicken bites and linguine separately in advance. Just combine and reheat before serving.
