Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine is a delicious dish that combines tender chicken with flavorful garlic and lemon, served over creamy linguine. This meal is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners at home. The combination of flavors is sure to please your family and friends!
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to love this recipe! First, it is quick and easy to prepare, taking about 30 minutes from start to finish. Second, the flavors of lemon and garlic make this dish fresh and vibrant. Lastly, it combines protein and carbs in one hearty meal, making it filling and satisfying. You can impress your guests or treat yourself to something special with minimal effort.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 8 oz (225g) linguine pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Directions
- Cook the linguine in salted boiling water according to package directions. Drain and reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 7–9 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the lemon juice and zest to the skillet, then return the cooked chicken to the pan. Toss to coat the chicken well in the lemon-garlic sauce.
- In a separate pot or skillet, melt the remaining butter over low heat. Add the drained linguine and reserved pasta water, along with the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until it is creamy and well-coated.
- Serve the lemon garlic butter chicken bites over the Parmesan linguine and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
How to Serve Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine
This dish is best served hot. You can plate the creamy linguine first and then top it with the juicy chicken bites. A sprinkle of extra parsley or Parmesan cheese can make it look even more appealing. Pair it with a glass of white wine or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
How to Store Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine
To store leftovers, let the chicken and pasta cool completely. Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat them in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
Tips to Make Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
- You can add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes to the linguine for extra nutrition and color.
- If you enjoy more spice, consider adding red pepper flakes to the chicken while cooking.
Variation
You can easily switch up this recipe by using shrimp or pork instead of chicken. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the proteins are cooked through, and keep the rest of the ingredients the same for a tasty twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use whole wheat linguine instead of regular linguine?
Yes, whole wheat linguine can be used as a healthier alternative. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as whole wheat pasta may take a bit longer to cook.
2. Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free linguine or another gluten-free pasta of your choice. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can cook the chicken and pasta ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them just before serving to keep everything fresh.
