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Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water for later. Set the cooked pasta aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn the garlic. Add the red pepper flakes (if using) and lemon juice, and stir to combine. Let the sauce simmer for an additional minute, then return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the chicken.
4. Prepare the Lemon Parmesan Pasta:
In a separate large pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the lemon zest and juice, stirring to combine. Add the cooked pasta to the pan, tossing to coat in the buttery sauce. If the pasta seems dry, add some of the reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.
5. Add Parmesan and Season:
Once the pasta is well-coated, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss again until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
6. Serve:
To serve, plate the creamy Lemon Parmesan Pasta and top it with the Garlic Butter Chicken. Drizzle any remaining garlic butter sauce from the pan over the chicken and pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
Tips and Variations:
- Add Vegetables: To make this dish even heartier, you can add vegetables like sautéed spinach, roasted broccoli, or cherry tomatoes to the pasta.
- Use Shrimp or Steak: If you prefer seafood or beef, you can swap out the chicken for shrimp or steak. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly.
- Make it Lighter: For a lighter version, you can use whole wheat pasta or zucchini noodles instead of regular pasta.
- Spicy Twist: If you love a little heat, add extra red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce or toss in some chili powder into the pasta.
Why This Recipe is a Winner
This Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Pasta checks all the boxes for an ideal meal: it’s rich, comforting, flavorful, and easy to make. The garlic butter chicken is tender and juicy, with a perfect balance of savory and tangy flavors from the lemon. The Lemon Parmesan Pasta is creamy, slightly tangy, and loaded with cheesy goodness, making it the perfect accompaniment to the chicken. Together, they create a harmonious dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying.
Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. You’ll love how quick and easy it is to prepare, and your family and guests will rave about the amazing flavors. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s bound to become a go-to recipe!
Enjoy!
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