Welcome to your new weeknight obsession! If you're searching for a dinner that's both comforting and bursting with vibrant flavors, look no further. Our Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine is a delightful dish that brings together tender, succulent chicken coated in a zesty, aromatic sauce with perfectly al dente, cheesy pasta. It’s a meal that feels fancy but is surprisingly simple to whip up, making it ideal for a quick family dinner or impressing guests.
This recipe isn't just about combining ingredients; it's about creating a symphony of tastes and textures. The bright lemon cuts through the rich butter and garlic, while the savory Parmesan linguine provides a creamy, satisfying base. Every bite is an experience, promising a warm, inviting flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why You'll Fall in Love with This Recipe
This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine stands out for several reasons:
- Incredible Flavor: The combination of lemon, garlic, butter, and Parmesan creates a harmonious blend that is utterly irresistible.
- Quick & Easy: Despite its gourmet feel, this dish comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy evenings.
- Crowd-Pleaser: It's a universally loved recipe that appeals to both adults and children, guaranteeing smiles around the dinner table.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable to your taste, you can adjust the lemon or garlic, or even add a hint of spice.
Ready to transform your dinner routine? Let's dive into making this absolutely delicious meal!
What You'll Need
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to culinary success. Here’s what you’ll need to create this amazing dish:
For the Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Savory Parmesan Linguine:
- 1 lb linguine
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges

How to Make Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine
Follow these simple steps to create a truly memorable meal:
- Step 1: In a large bowl, toss the chicken bites with 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1 tsp garlic powder until each piece is evenly coated.
- Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken bites and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. If you love quick chicken recipes, you might also enjoy learning How to Make an Speedy Chicken Bites Garlic Butter Sauce – Clara's Recipes.
- Step 3: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter. Add the 4 cloves of minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Step 4: Stir in the 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp lemon zest, and 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley. Return the cooked chicken bites to the skillet and toss gently to ensure they are thoroughly coated in the luscious garlic butter sauce.
- Step 5: Cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. For tips on achieving perfect al dente pasta every time, check out Serious Eats' guide to cooking pasta. Drain the linguine and set aside.
- Step 6: In a large pot or a clean skillet, melt the remaining 1/2 cup unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in the 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
- Step 7: Add the cooked linguine to the pot and toss well to coat it evenly with the savory Parmesan sauce.
- Step 8: To assemble, serve generous portions of the Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites directly over the Savory Parmesan Linguine.
- Step 9: Garnish with extra fresh parsley and lemon wedges, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy! This pasta is so good, it might remind you of the deliciousness in The Ultimate Guide to Garlic Bread Meets Cheese Pasta: Stuffed Loaf Perfection.
Tips for Success and Variations
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking chicken, ensure there's enough space in the skillet for even browning. Cook in two batches if necessary.
- Fresh Lemon is Key: Always use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best, brightest flavor. Bottled lemon juice just won't cut it here!
- Al Dente Perfection: Keep an eye on your pasta to ensure it's cooked al dente (firm to the bite). Overcooked pasta can become mushy.
- Add Some Veggies: Feel free to toss in some spinach, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes during the last few minutes of cooking the chicken for added nutrition and color.
- Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes added to the garlic butter sauce will give a lovely kick.
Conclusion
This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine is more than just a meal; it's a comforting escape, a burst of flavor, and a truly satisfying experience. We hope you and your loved ones enjoy this recipe as much as we do. Happy cooking!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While linguine is fantastic, you can easily substitute it with fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne to suit your preference. Just follow the package directions for cooking time.
What are some tips for perfectly cooked chicken bites?
Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken to get a good sear. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding, which can steam the chicken instead of browning it. Cook until golden and just cooked through, about 5-7 minutes, to keep the chicken juicy.
How can I enhance the flavor or add a kick to this dish?
For an extra flavor boost, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a subtle heat. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can also be chopped and stirred in along with the parsley for added aroma and taste.
Can I prepare parts of this dish ahead of time?
You can cut and season the chicken bites a few hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator. The garlic butter sauce is best made fresh, but you can mince your garlic and chop your parsley ahead of time to speed up the process when you're ready to cook.

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Standard
Description
Tender chicken bites in a zesty lemon garlic butter sauce served over creamy Parmesan linguine, making for an irresistibly flavorful and easy dinner.
Ingredients
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tsp salt (for chicken)
1/2 tsp black pepper (for chicken)
1 tsp garlic powder
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 cup unsalted butter (for sauce)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp lemon zest
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for sauce)
1 lb linguine
1/2 cup unsalted butter (for linguine)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for linguine)
1/2 tsp salt (for linguine)
1/4 tsp black pepper (for linguine)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: In a large bowl, toss the chicken bites with 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1 tsp garlic powder until evenly coated.
Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken bites and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken bites from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
Step 4: Stir in the 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp lemon zest, and 1/4 cup fresh parsley. Add the cooked chicken bites to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
Step 5: Cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 6: In a large pot, melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in the 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup chopped parsley, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
Step 7: Add the cooked linguine to the pot and toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
Step 8: Serve the Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites over the Savory Parmesan Linguine.
Step 9: Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges. Enjoy your delicious and indulgent main dish!
Notes
For best results, do not overcrowd the pan when cooking chicken. Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Frying, Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 720 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 45g
- Cholesterol: 180mg