When it comes to easy, satisfying, and flavor-packed dinners, Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine is a true standout. This dish combines juicy, golden-seared chicken bites coated in a luscious lemon garlic butter sauce with perfectly cooked linguine tossed in creamy Parmesan.
It’s the ideal meal for busy weeknights or special occasions — quick to make, bursting with freshness, and elegantly rich without being heavy. The balance of citrus, herbs, and cheese brings restaurant-quality flavor to your kitchen in under 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Serves 4
For the Chicken Bites:
- 1½ pounds (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, for garnish
For the Parmesan Linguine:
- 10 ounces (280g) linguine
- 1 tablespoon butter
- ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
- ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 35 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the linguine and cook until al dente according to package directions.
- Drain, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Pat chicken pieces dry and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken pieces and sear for 5–6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, add 3 tablespoons of butter and minced garlic.
- Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes.
- Return chicken to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
Step 4: Prepare the Parmesan Linguine
- In a separate pan, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat.
- Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in grated Parmesan until smooth and creamy.
- Add cooked linguine and toss until fully coated.
- If needed, add a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
- Plate the Parmesan linguine and top with lemon garlic chicken bites.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy the burst of buttery, citrusy, and savory flavors.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp Caesar salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Serve with garlic bread or toasted ciabatta to soak up the sauce.
- Complement with a glass of chilled Chardonnay or sparkling water with lemon.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (Approx. 1 Plate) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 580 |
| Protein | 45 grams |
| Total Fat | 25 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 12 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 45 grams |
| Sugars | 3 grams |
| Fiber | 3 grams |
| Sodium | 620 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Lean chicken breast provides high-quality protein to support muscle health.
- Lemon and garlic contribute antioxidants and natural detoxifying compounds.
- Parmesan and cream create rich flavor and supply calcium in moderate amounts.
- Can be made lighter by substituting half-and-half for cream or using whole-wheat pasta.
Tips for Best Results
- Use freshly grated Parmesan — it melts better and gives a silkier sauce.
- Don’t overcook the chicken; small pieces cook fast and stay juicy.
- Add extra lemon juice or zest for a brighter flavor profile.
- Reserve pasta water — it helps create a cohesive, creamy sauce without adding more cream.
Variations to Try
- Swap linguine for fettuccine or penne for texture variation.
- Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for color and added nutrients.
- For a spicy twist, toss in chili flakes or hot sauce before serving.
- Use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood version.
This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine recipe delivers the perfect combination of comfort and elegance. Tender chicken infused with buttery citrus notes meets silky Parmesan pasta for a dish that feels indulgent yet easy enough for any night of the week.
Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this meal promises to impress every time — delicious, satisfying, and ready in under an hour.