Imagine a plate of spaghetti adorned with tender chicken pieces, enveloped in a luscious lemon butter garlic sauce, and topped with creamy burrata cheese. This Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce is a delightful dish that hits all the right notes. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a special gathering with friends, combining ease of preparation with impressive flavor. The bright flavors of lemon and the richness of the butter and cheese come together to create a comforting yet elevated meal that you and your loved ones will crave time and time again.
Why We Love This Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe
There are countless reasons to love this Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce. First and foremost, it’s incredibly satisfying! The combination of perfectly cooked spaghetti, juicy chicken, and creamy burrata delivers a balance of textures and flavors. The dish is simple enough for a weeknight meal while still feeling special, making it versatile for any occasion. The freshness of the lemon brightens the rich sauce, turning what could have been a heavy dish into something refreshing and heartwarming. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner looking to impress, this recipe is approachable and rewarding, ensuring that every bite is an experience you’ll want to savor.
Ingredients about Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 ball burrata cheese (about 4 oz)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How to Make Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Directions
Cooking Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce is a straightforward process that brings together a few simple steps. Start by filling a large pot with water, adding a generous amount of salt, and bringing it to a boil. This step is essential because it seasons the spaghetti as it cooks, ensuring that every strand is flavorful. Once the water is boiling, add the spaghetti and cook it according to the package instructions until it reaches the perfect al dente texture. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Once done, drain the spaghetti, but be sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water for later use.
While the spaghetti cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized pieces of chicken with salt and pepper, which will add depth to the flavor. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the skillet. Sauté the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it turns golden brown and is fully cooked. When the chicken is ready, remove it from the skillet and set it aside; you’ll add it back later.
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and melt the butter. Be careful not to let it brown; you want a smooth, creamy sauce. After the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes if you enjoy a bit of heat. Sauté these ingredients for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant—this will infuse the butter with delicious garlic flavor. Next, stir in the lemon zest and juice, followed by the chicken broth. This mixture will create a bright and tangy sauce. Allow everything to simmer for about 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors meld together.
Now it’s time to add the spaghetti and chicken back into the skillet. Use tongs or a spatula to toss everything together, ensuring that each strand of spaghetti and piece of chicken is coated with the lemon butter sauce. If the mixture seems too dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to create a silkier texture. Before you plate up, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, which will melt into the sauce, adding richness.
To serve, transfer the spaghetti to individual plates or a large serving bowl. Tear the creamy burrata cheese over the top, letting it ooze over the pasta as it warms. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce while it’s hot!
How to Serve Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
When it comes to serving Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce, presentation and garnishing can elevate the dining experience. Start by plating the spaghetti in generous portions, allowing the chicken pieces to nestle among the noodles. The visual appeal of the dish is enhanced when you break the burrata cheese on top, as the creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the pasta.
For a delightful finishing touch, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over each plate. This not only adds a vibrant green color but also brings a fresh, aromatic flavor to the dish. You can also consider serving the spaghetti with slices of crusty bread on the side. This helps soak up the delicious lemon butter sauce, ensuring that none of it goes to waste. Pair your meal with a fresh salad—think of a mix of greens like arugula or spinach tossed with simple lemon vinaigrette, enhancing the meal’s freshness. Your guests will be enthralled by the bright and enticing presentation, making it perfect for a cozy dinner party or special occasion.
Expert Tips: Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
To ensure that your Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce comes out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips. First, be attentive to the cooking time for both the spaghetti and the chicken. Overcooking the spaghetti can lead to a mushy texture, while undercooked chicken can be tough. Always taste as you go!
Next, make sure your butter is fresh and of good quality, as this will greatly impact the sauce’s flavor. If you want to add a bit more depth to the dish, consider adding a handful of fresh spinach or arugula in the last minute of cooking the pasta. The greens will wilt down perfectly, adding nutrients and color.
Another tip is to use the reserved pasta water wisely. The starchiness of the water can help create a creamy sauce if the mixture feels too dry. Finally, don’t be afraid to customize the dish. You can adjust the amount of lemon to your taste, adding more for a zippier flavor or less for a subtler touch.
How to Store Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
If you happen to have leftovers of your Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce, you’ll be glad to know that it can be stored for later enjoyment. Start by allowing the pasta to cool to room temperature. Once it’s cooled, transfer the spaghetti and chicken into an airtight container. Store the container in the refrigerator, where it will remain fresh for up to 3 days.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water to help revive the sauce. You may want to tear a bit more burrata on top when serving to restore that creaminess. Always check for freshness before consuming and enjoy the delightful meal that you can savor again!
Variation of Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
One of the joys of cooking is the ability to adapt recipes to suit your tastes or dietary needs. For those looking for variations on the Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce, there are several delightful options. If you want to add more veggies, you could include halved cherry tomatoes, zucchini noodles, or sautéed asparagus along with the chicken. This adds color and additional nutrients to your dish, making it even healthier.
For a twist on the type of protein, consider replacing chicken with shrimp, which will cook quickly and absorb the lemon butter sauce beautifully. If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, you can easily swap the chicken for a medley of mushrooms or chickpeas, providing a hearty alternative.
Additionally, you may want to change the cheese topping. Instead of burrata, try fresh mozzarella or ricotta for a different flavor profile. Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your heat preference, making the dish milder or spicier as desired. The variations are limitless, allowing you to experiment based on what you love most.
FAQ
What makes this Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce so special?
The combination of tender chicken, creamy burrata, and a bright lemon butter garlic sauce creates a unique and delicious dish that’s both comforting and fancy.
Can I make this recipe without burrata cheese?
Yes! You can substitute burrata with fresh mozzarella or even ricotta as an alternative.
How long does it take to prepare this Chicken Spaghetti?
The total time for making this dish is approximately 30-40 minutes, making it a perfect option for a quick yet impressive dinner.
Can I store leftovers of Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat gently before serving.
Is it possible to modify the ingredients for dietary preferences?
Yes, this dish is versatile! You can swap chicken for shrimp or mushrooms for a vegetarian option based on your dietary needs.
Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
Ingredients
Pasta and Protein
- 12 oz spaghetti Cook according to package instructions
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces Season with salt and pepper
Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For cooking chicken
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Adds flavor to the sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes Optional, for a bit of heat
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1 unit lemon, zest and juice Provides bright flavor
- 1/2 cup chicken broth To create sauce consistency
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds richness to the sauce
- 1 ball burrata cheese (about 4 oz) For topping
- to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning
Garnish
- to taste Fresh parsley, chopped For garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous amount of salt. Bring to a boil.
- Add spaghetti to the boiling water and cook until al dente, usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Cooking Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
- Add chicken to the skillet and sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Making the Sauce
- In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and melt the butter without browning it.
- Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in lemon zest, juice, and chicken broth. Allow to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes.
Combine and Serve
- Add cooked spaghetti and chicken back into the skillet. Toss to coat with sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
- Serve in bowls topped with torn burrata cheese and freshly chopped parsley.
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