Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine

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If you love comfort food with a hint of brightness, this recipe is a must-try. The bold flavors of lemon and garlic caramelize beautifully over juicy, pan-seared chicken bites, delivering a zesty burst with every bite. Paired with ultra-creamy parmesan-coated linguine, this dish brings together richness and freshness in perfect balance.

It’s the kind of meal that makes weeknights feel like a special occasion without needing hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a casual dinner, Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine promises to impress, satisfy, and become a go-to favorite.

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What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Linguine is the star here for a reason. Its flat, ribbon-like texture holds onto the creamy parmesan sauce perfectly. If you’re in a pinch, fettuccine or tagliatelle work well too, but thinner noodles like angel hair might get lost under the richness of the sauce.

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Ingredients for the Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine

Chicken breast – Boneless, skinless chicken breast cut into bite-sized chunks creates the perfect protein-packed, golden-crusted bites.

Butter – Essential for that rich, nutty sear and the backbone of the sauce.

Garlic – Freshly minced garlic adds deep, aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with butter.

Lemon juice + zest – This combo brightens the dish and balances the richness of the cheese and butter.

Salt and pepper – Fundamental for bringing all the flavors forward.

Olive oil – Helps the butter resist burning during the sear.

Linguine pasta – The perfect noodle to cradle the creamy, cheesy sauce.

Heavy cream – Gives the sauce its luscious, velvety texture.

Freshly grated parmesan – Melts smoothly into the cream, adding savory depth.

Parsley (optional) – A fresh pop of green to finish and brighten the dish.

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How To Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Dice the chicken breasts into even, bite-sized pieces and season generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of lemon zest. Let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 2: Sear to Golden Perfection

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding. Sear until each side is golden and cooked through—about 5–6 minutes. Set aside.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Lower heat to medium and add a bit more butter. Toss in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Add lemon juice and zest, stirring to deglaze the pan and lift all that golden goodness.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Whisk in freshly grated parmesan and let it melt into a silky, rich sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Cook the Linguine

While the sauce simmers, boil your linguine according to package instructions. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 6: Toss It All Together

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, using reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the consistency. Gently fold in the seared chicken bites. Give everything a good toss so it’s evenly coated.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley and extra parmesan on top. Serve immediately while it’s hot and the cheese is melty.

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How to Store and Reheat Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Parmesan Linguine

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The creamy sauce may thicken upon cooling, so when reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it up. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at 50% power to avoid overcooking the chicken.

This dish is best fresh, but it holds up well for next-day lunches too. Keep garnishes like parsley separate until ready to serve for the freshest presentation.

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

Garlic Bread

Crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside—it’s perfect for scooping up that cheesy sauce.

Roasted Broccoli

A simple tray of olive oil-tossed broccoli adds a nice, earthy balance to the richness of the pasta.

Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons make a classic side.

Sautéed Green Beans

Bright and crisp, green beans with a hint of garlic complement the chicken beautifully.

Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and basil offer a refreshing contrast.

Lemon Asparagus

Grilled or roasted asparagus spears with a hint of lemon echo the dish’s bright citrus notes.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Warm and cozy, it adds a savory start that doesn’t overpower the main course.

Herbed Mushrooms

Sautéed mushrooms in butter and thyme add an umami-rich depth to the meal.

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Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you’re loving these lemon garlic chicken bites, don’t miss these other crave-worthy dinner options:

• Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken for that classic Southern crunch.
• Creamy Crockpot Crack Chicken when you want a creamy, cheesy chicken fix.
• White Wine Parmesan Chicken for a touch of elegance on a weeknight.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan if you’re into creamy sauces with bold garlic flavor.
• Cheesy Ranch Chicken Garlic Butter Fettuccine for another rich pasta pairing done right.

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Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe a splash of bourbon or a drizzle of glaze? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

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