Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Herb Cream Linguine
**Introduction:**
Indulge in a luxurious and mouthwatering dinner with this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken paired perfectly with Parmesan Herb Cream Linguine. This dish is sure to impress your family and make your taste buds dance with delight!
**Ingredients:**
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– Juice of 2 lemons
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
– 8 oz linguine pasta
**Instructions:**
1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and oregano. Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Bring to a simmer.
3. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add chicken back to the skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
4. Cook linguine according to package instructions. Drain and toss with the creamy sauce.
5. Serve the Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken over the Parmesan Herb Cream Linguine. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!
**Nutrition Information:**
– Calories: 480
– Fat: 18g
– Carbohydrates: 34g
– Protein: 42g
**Popular questions:**
1. **Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?**
– It’s best to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe to ensure even cooking and easy preparation.
2. **Can I substitute heavy cream with milk?**
– Heavy cream provides a creamy texture, but you can use milk as a lighter alternative. However, the sauce may not be as rich.
3. **How can I adjust the seasoning to suit my taste?**
– Feel free to adjust the salt, pepper, and oregano amounts to match your flavor preferences.
4. **Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried oregano?**
– Fresh herbs can be used for enhanced flavor, but adjust the quantity as they are more potent than dried herbs.
5. **Is it necessary to use Parmesan cheese in the sauce?**
– Parmesan cheese adds a rich and savory flavor to the sauce, but you can substitute it with another cheese of your choice.
6. **Can I add vegetables to the dish?**
– Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers to enhance the dish.
7. **How long should I cook the linguine pasta?**
– Follow the package instructions for cooking the linguine pasta until it is al dente for the best texture.
8. **Can I prepare the sauce in advance?**
– The sauce can be prepared in advance and reheated gently before serving for convenience.
9. **Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-searing it?**
– Grilling the chicken can add a smoky flavor, but pan-searing provides a delicious crust and retains moisture.
10. **How can I prevent the sauce from curdling?**
– Ensure to simmer the sauce gently and avoid overheating to prevent curdling.
**Helpful tips:**
1. Marinate the chicken breasts in lemon juice and garlic for extra flavor.
2. Finish the dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a bright, citrusy finish.
3. Toss the cooked linguine with a drizzle of olive oil before adding the sauce for a silky texture.
4. Experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme for varied flavors.
5. Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
6. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.
7. For a lower-calorie option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
8. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an added cheesy kick.
9. Serve with a side of garlic bread or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
10. Double the recipe for leftovers that make a delicious lunch the next day.
**Expert Secrets:**
1. For juicy chicken, brine the chicken breasts in a solution of water, salt, and sugar for added moisture.
2. Let the chicken breasts come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking.
3. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken, which should reach 165°F.
4. Deglaze the skillet with white wine before adding the sauce for added depth of flavor.
5. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain juices.
6. Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a more intense flavor than pre-grated.
7. Add a splash of white wine or chicken stock to deglaze the pan and enhance the sauce.
8. Add a touch of Dijon mustard to the sauce for a subtle tangy flavor.
9. Serve with a side of garlic butter asparagus or roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal.
10. For a cheesy crust, sprinkle extra Parmesan on top of the chicken before serving.