Description
Succulent lemon garlic butter chicken bites dance atop silky parmesan linguine, creating a Mediterranean-inspired symphony of flavors. Comfort meets elegance in this quick, satisfying dish that will transport restaurant-quality magic directly to your dinner table.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
Sauce and Seasoning:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
Pasta and Garnish:
- 12 oz linguine pasta
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 lemon, sliced for garnish
Instructions
- Slice chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Season chicken thoroughly with salt and black pepper, coating each piece completely.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering and hot.
- Carefully place seasoned chicken cubes into the skillet, arranging in a single layer without overcrowding.
- Sear chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, developing a golden-brown crust and ensuring internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove chicken from skillet and set aside on a clean plate.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt butter until foamy and fragrant.
- Add minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and dried oregano, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Pour fresh lemon juice into the butter mixture, creating a vibrant, aromatic sauce.
- Simultaneously, cook linguine in a separate pot of salted boiling water until al dente, typically 8-9 minutes.
- Return chicken to the skillet, gently tossing to coat with the lemon-garlic butter sauce.
- Drain pasta and transfer to a large serving platter.
- Arrange lemon-garlic chicken bites over the linguine.
- Sprinkle generously with grated parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley.
- Garnish with lemon slices and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Slice chicken uniformly to guarantee consistent cooking and prevent dry or undercooked sections.
- Select boneless, skinless chicken breasts for leaner protein and faster preparation time.
- Keep chicken pieces separated in skillet to achieve perfect golden-brown searing without steaming.
- Use fresh lemon juice for brighter, more vibrant flavor compared to bottled alternatives.
- Pat chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning to enhance crispy exterior and prevent excess moisture.
- Adjust red pepper flakes for personalized spice level, reducing for mild preference or increasing for heat lovers.
- Opt for freshly grated parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged for richer, more authentic taste profile.
- Consider gluten-free linguine option for individuals with wheat sensitivities or dietary restrictions.
- Allow chicken to rest briefly after cooking to retain maximum juiciness and prevent immediate moisture loss.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 623
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 859 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 65 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 39 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg