Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Penne is a go-to recipe in my kitchen, especially on those busy weeknights when I need something quick yet comforting. I remember the first time I made this for my family; the rich aroma of garlic and lemon filled the house, making everyone rush to the table. This dish beautifully combines the tender bite-sized chicken pieces with a creamy sauce that envelops al dente penne pasta. It’s both satisfying and delicious, perfect for sharing with loved ones. Today, I’m excited to share this recipe with you, packed with flavors that will have your family coming back for seconds. You may also find Cheddar Parmesan Garlic Butter Chicken With Creamy Shells useful.
Kitchen Essentials You’ll Need
To whip up this dish, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools to make the process smooth. You may also find Garlic Butter Chicken Bites With Creamy Parmesan Pasta useful.
- Large Skillet: A good quality skillet is critical for browning the chicken evenly and sautéing the garlic.
- Pot for Boiling Pasta: Use a large pot that allows the penne to cook without sticking together.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons: Accurate measuring ensures that your ingredient proportions are just right for a delicious outcome.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Perfect for stirring your sauce without damaging your cookware.
- Knife and Cutting Board: You’ll need these for prepping the chicken and mincing the garlic.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll adore Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Penne for its comforting blend of flavors and textures.
- The creamy sauce adds richness that complements the chicken perfectly.
- It’s incredibly easy to make, taking about 35 minutes from start to finish.
- This dish is a family favorite, appealing to both kids and adults alike.
- It’s a practical weeknight meal, using pantry staples and fresh ingredients.
If you’re looking for more tasty chicken recipes, check out this cheddar parmesan garlic butter chicken for inspiration.
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Penne Ingredients
This recipe requires the following ingredients to create a perfect harmony of flavors:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 2 lemons
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Lemon slices for garnish
The penne pasta provides a satisfying base, while the combination of heavy cream, Parmesan, and cream cheese creates a luscious sauce that clings beautifully to each bite. The chicken is seasoned perfectly, enhancing the dish’s overall flavor.
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ALT: Creamy Parmesan Penne with Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken in a bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions
This recipe is quick and easy, taking around 35 minutes and rated easy in terms of difficulty.
- Cook the penne in salted water until al dente, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water. Drain and set aside.
- Season the chicken pieces with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper for an even flavor.
- Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden-brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter, then add the minced garlic, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Squeeze in the lemon juice and add the zest, simmering for about 1 minute to release the flavors.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring continuously.
- Add the softened cream cheese, whisking until the mixture is smooth. Gradually stir in the Parmesan, mozzarella, and crushed red pepper flakes until the sauce is thick and glossy.
- Toss the cooked penne into the sauce, ensuring that every piece is coated in the creamy goodness.
- Finally, return the chicken to the skillet and fold everything together gently.
- Garnish with fresh basil and lemon slices, serving hot for the best enjoyment.
Fun Variations You Can Try
This recipe is fantastic as is, but if you’re looking to switch things up, here are a few variations to consider:
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas for a satisfying plant-based meal.
- Zesty Kick: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce if you enjoy a little heat.
- Creamier Texture: Incorporate additional cream or a drizzle of olive oil for an even richer sauce.
- Cheese Switch: Use goat cheese or feta instead of Parmesan for a different cheese flavor.
- Pasta Variety: Feel free to swap penne for another type of pasta, such as fusilli or farfalle.
If you’re interested in more delicious chicken variations, this garlic butter cajun chicken is a fantastic option.
How I Love to Serve It
Plating is an essential part of enjoying this delicious meal. I love to serve the creamy penne in bowls, garnished with fresh basil and a few slices of lemon for brightness. This dish pairs beautifully with:
- A simple green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette
- Garlic bread for a comforting side that complements the flavors
- Steamed seasonal vegetables for a healthy touch
Consider adding this creamy garlic Parmesan chicken for another delightful pairing option.
Helpful Tips from My Kitchen
Here are some tips that I have learned along the way to make this dish perfect every time:
- Make sure the butter is melted over medium heat, so the garlic doesn’t burn and turns bitter.
- When cooking the chicken, ensure that the pieces are cut evenly for uniform cooking.
- Reserve some of the pasta water before draining; it can be a great addition to the sauce if it becomes too thick.
- This dish is great for meal prep—it keeps well in the fridge and can easily be reheated.
- Don’t skip the fresh basil garnish; it adds a fresh burst of flavor that elevates the dish.
Important Cooking Reminders
These reminders are crucial for safely preparing chicken dishes:
- Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- To freeze, cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for 2-3 months.
- When reheating, do so gently on low heat to avoid drying out the chicken.
For trusted guidelines, consult this USDA safe minimum cooking temperatures.
Nutritional Information (Estimated)
This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Penne roughly contains 650 calories per serving.
- Estimated nutrition breakdown:
- Calories: 650
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fat: 35g
- Protein: 40g
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
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ALT: Plated Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Penne ready to serve
Common Questions You Might Have
This recipe is straightforward, but you might have a few questions regarding storage or variants.
How can I store leftovers?
Cool down any leftovers thoroughly before placing them in an airtight container. This will keep well in your fridge for 3-4 days, making it easy to enjoy again.
Can I substitute ingredients?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with shrimp or even keep it vegetarian by adding seasonal vegetables.
Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve to maintain its texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Penne is a delightful recipe that’ll become a staple in your kitchen. The creamy sauce, combined with the zesty kick from lemons, makes this dish unforgettable. I still recall the hugs I received from my kids the first time I served it—food can truly bring us closer together. This one’s been in my dinner rotation for years, and I’m confident it will become a favorite in your home too. Give it a try and enjoy a deliciously satisfying meal with family and friends.
For other great options, check out these recipes: Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta – Dishing Out Health, Lemon Butter Pasta with Chicken, and Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta (30 minutes only!) – Joyous Apron.
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Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Penne
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and quick recipe that combines tender chicken with creamy Parmesan penne, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 2 lemons
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the penne in salted water until al dente, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water. Drain and set aside.
- Season the chicken pieces with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper for an even flavor.
- Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden-brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter, then add the minced garlic, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Squeeze in the lemon juice and add the zest, simmering for about 1 minute to release the flavors.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring continuously.
- Add the softened cream cheese, whisking until the mixture is smooth. Gradually stir in the Parmesan, mozzarella, and crushed red pepper flakes until the sauce is thick and glossy.
- Toss the cooked penne into the sauce, ensuring that every piece is coated in the creamy goodness.
- Finally, return the chicken to the skillet and fold everything together gently.
- Garnish with fresh basil and lemon slices, serving hot for the best enjoyment.
Notes
Make sure to reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if necessary. This dish is great for meal prep and keeps well in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: chicken, pasta, creamy, lemon, garlic, quick meals, family recipes