Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine

Save this recipe on:

Golden, crispy chicken bites coated in a luscious lemon garlic butter sauce, served over a bed of creamy Parmesan linguine—this dish is pure comfort with a gourmet touch. The tender, juicy chicken pieces are perfectly seasoned and seared to perfection, while the pasta absorbs all the rich, buttery goodness, making every bite irresistibly flavorful. A sprinkle of fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon at the end brighten up the dish, balancing its richness with a refreshing zing.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or an elegant weekend dinner. It comes together quickly, yet feels restaurant-worthy. Whether you’re craving a satisfying meal for yourself or looking to impress guests with minimal effort, this combination of crispy chicken and creamy pasta is sure to be a winner.

---

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, this dish is simple enough for any home cook.
• Incredible Flavor: A perfect balance of rich butter, zesty lemon, and savory Parmesan.
• One-Pan Wonder: The chicken and sauce come together in one skillet for easy cleanup.
• Restaurant-Worthy: It looks and tastes like something from a high-end bistro.
• Versatile: Serve it with your favorite veggies or swap the pasta for a lighter side.

---

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment

To make Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine, having the right tools will make the process smooth and efficient:

• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: A heavy-bottomed pan ensures even cooking and a beautiful sear on the chicken bites.
• Large Pot: Needed for boiling the linguine to a perfect al dente texture.
• Tongs: Helpful for flipping the chicken pieces without breaking them.
• Sharp Knife & Cutting Board: Essential for prepping the chicken and mincing the garlic.
• Grater or Microplane: Perfect for freshly grating Parmesan cheese, which melts smoothly into the sauce.
• Lemon Zester & Juicer: Extracting fresh lemon juice and zest enhances the dish’s flavor.
• Colander: Draining pasta efficiently prevents overcooking and helps retain its texture.

Each of these tools plays a role in making this dish easy to execute and packed with flavor.

---

Preparation Tips

• Pat the Chicken Dry: Before seasoning, remove excess moisture to help achieve a crispy sear.
• Cut Uniform Pieces: This ensures even cooking so all the chicken bites are tender and juicy.
• Use Fresh Garlic & Lemon: Fresh ingredients make a huge difference in flavor, giving the sauce a vibrant taste.
• Salt the Pasta Water Well: The pasta should absorb some salt while boiling, enhancing its overall flavor.
• Reserve Pasta Water: A small amount of starchy pasta water helps create a silky, cohesive sauce.
• Grate Parmesan Fresh: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly into the sauce.

---

Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine

For the Chicken Bites:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

For the Parmesan Linguine:

• 8 ounces linguine
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup reserved pasta water (as needed, to adjust sauce consistency)

Optional Garnish:

• Extra grated Parmesan
• Lemon wedges for serving
• Additional chopped parsley

---

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Linguine

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
4. Drain the pasta and set it aside while preparing the chicken and sauce.

---

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Bites

1. Pat the chicken pieces dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
2. In a bowl, season the chicken with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Toss to coat evenly.
3. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and set it aside.

---

Step 3: Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add red pepper flakes (if using) for a hint of spice.
4. Squeeze in the lemon juice, stirring to combine all the flavors.
5. Return the chicken to the pan, tossing it in the sauce for 1-2 minutes.

---

Step 4: Prepare the Parmesan Linguine

1. In a separate pan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Add the drained linguine, tossing to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce.
7. If needed, use reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.

---

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

1. Transfer the Parmesan linguine to a serving plate or bowl.
2. Top with the lemon garlic butter chicken bites.
3. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
4. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.

---

Notes

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and freshly minced garlic provide the best flavor.
• Adjust Spice Level: If you like a bit of heat, increase the red pepper flakes. If you prefer a milder dish, omit them.
• Customize the Pasta: Swap linguine for fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne if you prefer a different texture.
• Make it Lighter: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter sauce.
• Extra Creamy Sauce: If you want a richer pasta, add a touch more Parmesan and a splash of pasta water to thicken the sauce.

---

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

1. Overcrowding the Pan

If you crowd the pan while cooking the chicken, it will steam instead of sear. Cook in batches if necessary to get that golden-brown crust.

2. Overcooking the Chicken

Chicken bites cook quickly! Keep an eye on them and remove them once they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to avoid dryness.

3. Skipping the Pasta Water

Pasta water is key for achieving a silky, cohesive sauce. Add a little at a time until you reach the perfect consistency.

4. Using Pre-Grated Parmesan

Pre-packaged grated Parmesan contains anti-caking agents, which prevent it from melting smoothly. Always use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor.

5. Not Seasoning the Pasta Water

Salted pasta water enhances the overall dish. It should taste slightly salty, like seawater, to infuse the pasta with flavor.

6. Burning the Garlic

Garlic cooks quickly! Only sauté it for 30 seconds to avoid bitterness.

---

What to Serve With Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine

This dish is already packed with flavor, but pairing it with the right sides can take it to the next level. Here are some great accompaniments:

1. Garlic Bread

A crispy, buttery slice of garlic bread is the perfect side to soak up that rich, creamy sauce.

2. Roasted Vegetables

Oven-roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini add a delicious contrast to the creamy pasta.

3. Fresh Garden Salad

A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette balances out the richness of the dish.

4. Sautéed Spinach

Lightly sautéed spinach with garlic and olive oil adds a nutritious and flavorful touch.

5. Grilled Shrimp

For a seafood twist, serve grilled shrimp on the side or mix them into the pasta for extra protein.

6. Crispy Parmesan Brussels Sprouts

Roasting Brussels sprouts with Parmesan and a drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a crunchy, tangy contrast.

7. Creamy Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a hearty side, mashed potatoes work well with the lemon garlic butter sauce.

8. A Glass of White Wine

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the lemony, buttery flavors of the dish.

---

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them to keep the flavors fresh and delicious.

Refrigeration:

• Store the chicken and pasta separately in airtight containers.
• The chicken will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the fridge.
• The pasta with sauce is best consumed within 3 days for optimal texture.

Freezing:

• The chicken bites can be frozen for up to 3 months in a sealed freezer-safe bag or container.
• The pasta with sauce does not freeze well due to the creamy consistency, which may separate when reheated.

Reheating Instructions:

• Stovetop (Best Method): Reheat the pasta in a pan over low heat with a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to restore its creamy texture. Warm the chicken separately in the same pan for a couple of minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short 30-second intervals, stirring in between, and add a little liquid (milk, cream, or broth) to keep the pasta from drying out.
• Oven: Reheat the chicken at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain its crispiness.

---

Estimated Nutrition

Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: ~650 kcal
• Protein: ~45g
• Carbohydrates: ~50g
• Fats: ~32g
• Saturated Fat: ~14g
• Cholesterol: ~140mg
• Sodium: ~600mg
• Fiber: ~3g
• Sugar: ~3g

Note: Nutrition values may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and add more flavor. Just ensure they are boneless and cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

2. What can I use instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce?

You can substitute half-and-half, whole milk, or even Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce. Just note that the consistency may be slightly thinner.

3. How do I prevent the chicken from getting dry?

Avoid overcooking by removing the chicken from the heat as soon as it reaches 165°F (75°C). Also, letting the chicken rest for a couple of minutes before serving helps retain moisture.

4. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and double-check that your seasonings and Parmesan cheese are gluten-free.

5. How do I make the sauce thicker?

If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer for an extra minute after adding the Parmesan. You can also mix in a teaspoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water and stir it into the sauce.

6. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus would make great additions.

7. What if I don’t have fresh garlic?

You can use ½ teaspoon of garlic powder per clove as a substitute, though fresh garlic is always recommended for the best flavor.

8. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the chicken and pasta separately, store them in the fridge, and then reheat everything together with a splash of cream or broth before serving.

---

Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine is a dish that brings together rich, buttery flavors with zesty freshness in a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this dish is sure to impress!

---

Print

Save this recipe on: