When you crave something bold, aromatic, and comforting, this Garlic Herb Butter Chicken with Lemon-Parmesan Spaghetti delivers everything you want — tender, golden seared chicken glazed in garlic butter, paired with glossy spaghetti tossed in a bright lemon-Parmesan sauce. It’s indulgent but balanced, simple but sophisticated — a perfect example of how minimal ingredients can still taste like five-star dining.

Each element here plays its role perfectly: the chicken is juicy, infused with herbs and garlic, while the pasta shines with citrus, creaminess, and sharp cheese. The melted pat of butter on top ties it all together, creating that unmistakable restaurant-style finish that looks as good as it tastes. This dish is about contrast — rich and fresh, buttery and tangy, simple yet layered.

Why You’ll Love It

• Perfect sear, perfect glaze: Juicy chicken crusted in herbs and garlic butter.
• Bright, balanced pasta: Lemon cuts through richness for a clean finish.
• Quick and elegant: 30 minutes from start to plate — ideal for weeknights or entertaining.
• Visually stunning: Golden chicken, glossy noodles, and fresh herbs — a Pinterest-perfect plate.
• Customizable: Add heat, swap proteins, or include vegetables for variety.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Garlic Herb Butter Chicken

• 2 large chicken breasts, butterflied and pounded evenly
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or a mix of thyme, oregano, and basil
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Lemon-Parmesan Spaghetti

• 12 ounces spaghetti
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
• 3/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup pasta water (reserved)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (plus more for garnish)

For Garnish

• 1 tablespoon butter (to melt on top before serving)
• Extra Parmesan cheese
• Fresh chopped herbs (parsley, basil, or chives)

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Heavy skillet or cast iron pan
• Tongs, whisk, and zester
• Sharp knife for slicing chicken

Instructions

1) Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add chicken and sear 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature). Remove from pan and set aside on a plate, covered loosely with foil.

2) Make the Garlic Herb Butter

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add 3 tablespoons butter and let it melt. Stir in minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and chopped parsley. Cook 30 seconds until fragrant, then return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the butter over the top to glaze it beautifully. Let it rest in the pan off heat while you make the pasta.

3) Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water, then drain and return the pasta to the pot.

4) Build the Lemon-Parmesan Sauce

In a clean skillet, melt 3 tablespoons butter over medium-low heat. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant (do not brown). Add lemon zest and juice, stirring to infuse the butter. Toss in the hot pasta along with Parmesan cheese and a splash of pasta water, tossing until the noodles are glossy and evenly coated. Adjust with more water or cheese as needed for a creamy, silky texture.

5) Plate and Finish

Arrange the lemon-Parmesan spaghetti in a mound on each plate. Top with sliced garlic herb butter chicken, spooning any pan juices over the top. Add a small pat of butter on each plate so it melts into the warm noodles. Garnish with chopped herbs and cracked black pepper.

Flavor Profile

This dish walks the perfect line between richness and brightness. The chicken bursts with garlic and herb flavor, while the butter glaze keeps it juicy. The spaghetti is creamy yet light, lifted by lemon’s acidity and Parmesan’s savoriness. Together, they form a beautifully cohesive bite — bold, buttery, and vibrant.

Chef’s Tips

• Use fresh lemon juice: Bottled juice can dull the sauce — fresh is essential.
• Grate Parmesan finely: It melts smoother and emulsifies better with the butter.
• Control the heat: Garlic burns fast; keep it at medium-low once added to butter.
• Slice chicken across the grain: This keeps it tender and presentation-ready.
• Finish with cold butter: Melting a small pat at the end adds shine and body to the pasta.

Make-Ahead & Storage

• Make-ahead: Cook and slice chicken up to a day in advance. Reheat gently in the garlic butter before serving.
• Store: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm pasta gently in a skillet with a splash of water or butter. Reheat chicken separately to keep the crust intact.
• Freeze: Not ideal due to butter separation — best enjoyed fresh.

Variations

• Spicy Garlic Chicken: Double the red pepper flakes for a fiery version.
• Creamy Upgrade: Stir 1/4 cup heavy cream into the pasta for a richer sauce.
• Herb Forward: Swap parsley for basil, tarragon, or dill for unique flavor twists.
• Seafood Option: Replace chicken with shrimp or salmon — both pair beautifully with the lemon-Parmesan base.
• Vegetarian Version: Omit chicken and top with roasted broccoli or zucchini instead.

Quick Recipe Card

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Serves: 4

1. Season and sear chicken until golden; set aside.
2. Make garlic herb butter and glaze chicken.
3. Cook spaghetti; reserve pasta water.
4. Toss pasta with butter, lemon, and Parmesan.
5. Plate pasta, top with sliced chicken, and finish with herbs.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Garlic Herb Butter Chicken with Lemon-Parmesan Spaghetti with a side of sautéed spinach, asparagus, or roasted cherry tomatoes for color and freshness. A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc enhances the citrus and butter notes perfectly. For a cozy dinner, serve with garlic bread and a chilled glass of sparkling water with lemon.

Behind the Recipe

This dish was designed for those who love balance — buttery richness offset by bright acidity. The inspiration came from classic Italian trattoria flavors: garlic butter chicken meets aglio e olio with a twist of lemon. Every bite feels familiar but elevated, turning pantry staples into something restaurant-worthy.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Herb Butter Chicken with Lemon-Parmesan Spaghetti is proof that simplicity is luxury when done right. Every bite delivers richness, brightness, and depth — the kind of plate that feels effortless but impresses instantly. Serve it hot, drizzle with butter, and let the aroma of garlic and herbs fill the room. This one belongs on repeat in your kitchen — and your feed.