Ingredients
For the Chicken:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 tsp paprika
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2–3 tbsp olive oil
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3 tbsp butter
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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Juice of 1 lemon
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Zest of 1 lemon
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1/2 cup chicken broth
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
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8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
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2 tbsp butter
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3–4 garlic cloves, minced
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1 cup heavy cream
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
Instructions
1. Cook the pasta:
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
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Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
2. Cook the chicken:
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Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Sear chicken 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C). Remove and set aside.
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Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the skillet.
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Sauté garlic 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
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Add lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth. Simmer 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced.
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Return chicken to the skillet and coat with the sauce.
3. Make the creamy Parmesan pasta:
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In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat.
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Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
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Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
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Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
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Add pasta and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time.
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Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
4. Serve:
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Plate pasta and top with a chicken breast.
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Spoon extra lemon garlic butter sauce over the chicken and pasta.
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Garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan if desired.
Tips
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Pound the chicken slightly to ensure even cooking.
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For more lemony flavor, serve with lemon wedges.
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You can add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the pasta for extra color and flavor.
If you want, I can also give a one-pan version where the chicken and pasta cook together for even faster cleanup and infused flavors. It’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Do you want me to do that?
