Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe
This Chicken Spaghetti recipe features tender, pan-seared chicken breast combined with al dente spaghetti tossed in a luscious lemon butter garlic sauce and finished with creamy burrata cheese. Bright lemon zest and fresh parsley add vibrant flavor, making it a delightful, comforting pasta dish perfect for any weeknight dinner.
- Author: Grace
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
For the Chicken and Pasta
- 2 large chicken breasts or thighs (boneless, skinless)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
For the Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or reserved pasta water)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
For Serving
- 1 cup burrata cheese (about 1 ball)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken to the hot skillet and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest. Once cooled slightly, slice into thin strips or cubes.
- Cook the Pasta: While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Add Lemon and Broth: Stir in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and chicken broth (or reserved pasta water). Allow the mixture to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, letting the liquid reduce slightly and the flavors meld.
- Add Cream: Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens slightly into a rich, creamy sauce.
- Combine Chicken and Pasta: Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken back into the skillet with the lemon butter garlic sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly in the sauce.
- Add Burrata: Tear the burrata cheese into pieces and gently fold it into the pasta mixture, allowing the cheese to melt slightly for a creamy finish.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish and serve immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts for a juicier texture.
- Reserve pasta water to help adjust the sauce consistency if it becomes too thick.
- Use fresh burrata for the best creamy texture, but mozzarella can be a substitute if needed.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Make sure not to overcook the garlic to avoid bitterness in the sauce.
- This recipe pairs well with a light green salad and crusty bread.
Keywords: Chicken Spaghetti, Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce, Burrata Pasta, Easy Chicken Pasta, Creamy Lemon Pasta, Italian Dinner