Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Lemon Parmesan Spaghetti is one of those meals that feels like a celebration, even on a regular weeknight. The combination of juicy, tender chicken bites cooked in a flavorful garlic butter sauce, paired with a zesty lemon parmesan spaghetti, creates a dish that’s both comforting and refreshing. I remember the first time I made this for my family there was an audible “wow” at the dinner table, followed by empty plates and lots of smiles. It’s one of those recipes that brings people together and gets rave reviews every time.
What makes this dish even more special is how simple it is to prepare. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can have a flavorful, restaurant-quality meal on the table in under 30 minutes. The garlic butter chicken is perfectly complemented by the rich and creamy lemon parmesan spaghetti, making it a winning combination that works for any occasion whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner, a cozy weekend meal, or even a special dinner for friends and family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Lemon Parmesan Spaghetti is a dish that checks all the boxes: easy to make, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters. One of the things that makes this recipe so great is its simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up a meal that tastes as though it came straight from a high-end restaurant. It’s the perfect example of how simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create something truly spectacular.
The chicken is cooked in a buttery garlic sauce, giving it a rich, savory flavor. Then, it’s paired with lemon parmesan spaghetti, which brings a perfect balance of creaminess and acidity. The freshness of the lemon helps to cut through the richness of the butter and cream, making the dish feel light and refreshing. It’s the kind of meal that leaves you feeling satisfied without feeling overly stuffed.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- For the Chicken and Spaghetti:
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- 3 tbsp butter, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- For the Lemon Parmesan Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water, and set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
While the spaghetti is cooking, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Toss to coat the chicken evenly with the spices.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for 6-8 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Stir occasionally to ensure the chicken cooks evenly on all sides. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 4: Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Add the lemon zest and juice, stirring to combine, then pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Let the sauce simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Add Parmesan Cheese and Combine
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and garlic powder. Continue to simmer for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat it in the sauce. Add the cooked spaghetti and toss everything together, adding a bit of reserved pasta water if needed to help the sauce coat the pasta. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Variation
One of the things I love about Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Lemon Parmesan Spaghetti is how versatile it is. You can easily tweak the ingredients or swap out certain items to accommodate different dietary preferences or simply to use what you have on hand. Here are a few ideas for customizing this dish:
- Add Vegetables: To make the dish more colorful and nutritious, you can add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or asparagus. Simply sauté the veggies in the same skillet with the chicken for a few extra minutes until tender. This adds extra flavor and texture to the dish while making it a more balanced meal.
- Make it Spicy: If you like a little heat, you can add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce or season the chicken with a pinch of cayenne pepper before cooking. The spice will contrast beautifully with the creamy, tangy sauce.
- Substitute the Chicken: If you’re looking for a different protein, you can substitute the chicken with shrimp or even use turkey breast. Both options will work well with the garlic butter sauce, giving the dish a slightly different flavor profile.
- Go Dairy-Free: To make this recipe dairy-free, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free Parmesan-style cheese. The coconut cream will still give you that creamy texture, while the dairy-free cheese adds a savory flavor to the sauce.
- Gluten-Free Option: If you need the recipe to be gluten-free, simply swap the spaghetti for gluten-free pasta. There are plenty of great gluten-free pasta options that will work perfectly in this dish, making it accessible for everyone at the table.
These variations allow you to tailor the dish to suit your tastes or dietary needs while still keeping the essence of the original recipe intact.
How to Serve
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Lemon Parmesan Spaghetti is a flavorful and hearty dish that can stand on its own, but serving it with the right sides and garnishes can elevate the meal even further. Here are a few ideas for how to serve it:
- Fresh Salad: A light, refreshing salad pairs beautifully with this dish. Try a mixed greens salad with a simple vinaigrette dressing, or a Caesar salad if you want to stay on theme with the Parmesan flavor. The crispness of the greens balances the richness of the chicken and spaghetti.
- Roasted Vegetables: For a more substantial side, serve the garlic butter chicken with roasted vegetables. Roasted asparagus, brussels sprouts, or even roasted carrots would complement the garlic and lemon flavors in the dish.
- Garlic Bread: If you’re a fan of garlic bread, this is the perfect side! The buttery, garlicky bread will soak up the delicious sauce from the chicken and pasta. You can easily make it by toasting slices of baguette with butter and garlic, then sprinkling with fresh parsley.
- Additional Garnishes: Don’t forget to garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for added richness, or add a few lemon wedges on the side for those who love an extra citrusy kick.
These serving suggestions will help you create a well-rounded and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Cooking Note
Here are some additional cooking notes to help you achieve the best results when making Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Lemon Parmesan Spaghetti:
- Searing the Chicken: When cooking the chicken, be sure to let it sear undisturbed for a couple of minutes before flipping. This creates a golden brown crust and locks in the juices.
- Keep the Garlic from Burning: Garlic burns quickly and can turn bitter if cooked for too long. Always cook garlic over medium heat and keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Use Fresh Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest make all the difference in this dish. Bottled lemon juice lacks the bright, vibrant flavor of fresh lemon, so for the best taste, always use a fresh lemon.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: When cooking the chicken, avoid overcrowding the skillet. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches. This ensures that the chicken sears properly and doesn’t steam.
- Watch the Sauce: When adding the cream and Parmesan to the skillet, be sure to stir constantly to avoid the sauce separating. It’s best to keep the heat at a low simmer to allow the sauce to come together smoothly.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 570 per serving
- Protein: 38g
- Sodium: 700mg
Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Cooking frozen chicken directly can result in uneven cooking, so it’s best to thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
Can I make this dish with a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works perfectly in this dish, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Penne, fettuccine, or linguine would all be great substitutes. Just make sure to cook the pasta according to the package instructions.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to its creamy consistency.
Can I make the lemon parmesan sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove, adding a little extra cream or pasta water if necessary to achieve the desired consistency.
Can I use a different type of cheese in the sauce?
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese on hand, you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese. However, keep in mind that the flavor profile may change slightly.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Lemon Parmesan Spaghetti is one of those dishes that’s both simple and indulgent, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. The combination of buttery, garlicky chicken with creamy, lemony pasta is irresistible, and it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a group, this recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
The beauty of this dish is in its versatility. You can add extra vegetables, change up the protein, or even modify it to fit dietary preferences, making it a meal that can be enjoyed by everyone. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead meal for meal prep or dinner parties, as it comes together quickly and stores well for leftovers.
I hope this recipe becomes a favorite in your household. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying but don’t have a lot of time to cook. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and zesty pasta are sure to bring smiles to the dinner table. Let me know how it turns out and don’t forget to share your photos! Also, feel free to check out some of my other recipes for more delicious dinner ideas.
Enjoy your meal and happy cooking!
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Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Lemon Parmesan Spaghetti
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need
- For the Chicken and Spaghetti:
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- 3 tbsp butter, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- For the Lemon Parmesan Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water, and set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
While the spaghetti is cooking, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Toss to coat the chicken evenly with the spices.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for 6-8 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Stir occasionally to ensure the chicken cooks evenly on all sides. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 4: Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Add the lemon zest and juice, stirring to combine, then pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Let the sauce simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Add Parmesan Cheese and Combine
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and garlic powder. Continue to simmer for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat it in the sauce. Add the cooked spaghetti and toss everything together, adding a bit of reserved pasta water if needed to help the sauce coat the pasta. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 570
- Sodium: 700
- Protein: 38