Description
A cozy, creamy pasta dish featuring chicken, browned butter, and seasonal flavors, perfect for fall evenings.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or your favorite)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken stock
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat, roasted mushrooms, or baby spinach
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- Sear the chicken: While pasta cooks, season chicken with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm 1 tablespoon olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter. Sear chicken pieces until golden and cooked through, 4–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Build the sauce: In the same skillet, lower heat to medium and add remaining butter and oil. Sauté onion until translucent, about 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in chili powder if using.
- Deglaze and simmer: Pour in chicken stock and lemon juice, scraping up brown bits. Add heavy cream and Parmesan; stir until smooth and slightly thickened, 2–3 minutes.
- Finish the dish: Return chicken to the pan, add pasta and lemon zest, and toss to coat. If the sauce seems thick, loosen with reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of parsley.
- Serve warm: Garnish with extra Parmesan and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.
Notes
Don’t overcook the chicken for tenderness. Use real butter for authentic flavor. Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: American