Imagine a dish that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal in just 35 minutes. This Brown Butter Parmesan Chicken Linguini is not just a recipe—it's a flavor explosion waiting to happen in your kitchen. With the nutty richness of brown butter, the savory depth of Parmesan, and perfectly cooked chicken, this Italian-inspired creation will elevate your weeknight dinner from ordinary to extraordinary. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a dish that looks gourmet but is surprisingly easy to prepare!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz linguini
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add linguini and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-9 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove chicken and let rest on a cutting board.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium-low. Add unsalted butter and allow it to melt, swirling occasionally. Continue cooking until butter turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the brown butter and sauté for 30 seconds, being careful not to burn.
- Slice the cooked chicken breasts into thin strips.
- Add drained linguini to the brown butter skillet. Toss pasta to coat evenly, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta, stirring to incorporate and create a creamy texture.
- Add sliced chicken back to the skillet and gently toss to combine all ingredients.
- Transfer to serving plates, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Brown Butter Mastery: Watch your butter carefully when browning. The transformation from melted to brown happens quickly, and you want a golden color with a nutty aroma, not burnt butter.
- Chicken Perfection: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches exactly 165°F for safe, juicy results. Let it rest after cooking to retain moisture.
- Pasta Water Magic: Always reserve some pasta water before draining. The starchy liquid helps create a silky, clingy sauce that coats every strand of linguini.
- Cheese Technique: Add Parmesan off the heat to prevent clumping and achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
- Fresh is Best: Use freshly grated Parmesan and chop parsley just before garnishing to maximize flavor and visual appeal.
- One-Pan Convenience: By using the same skillet for chicken, browning butter, and finishing the dish, you'll minimize cleanup and enhance flavor layers.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 650kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Cholesterol: 160mg
