Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts

12 ounces linguine pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon paprika

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1 teaspoon lemon zest

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/2 cup chicken broth or reserved pasta water

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Fill a large pot with salted water and boil the linguine according to package directions. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water. Toss the drained pasta lightly with a little olive oil to prevent sticking and set aside.

Step 2: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons unsalted butter. Add minced garlic, paprika, and red pepper flakes if using. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Stir in Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Pour in the chicken broth or reserved pasta water, scraping up any browned bits from the pan bottom.

Step 5: Add the heavy cream and half of the chopped parsley. Stir and cook for about 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 6: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, add the linguine, and sprinkle in the grated parmesan cheese. Toss everything gently until well coated with the sauce.

Step 7: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with the remaining parsley and extra parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately for best flavor.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh garlic for a more intense flavor boost in the sauce.

Substitute chicken broth with reserved pasta water for a lighter sauce with the same creamy texture.

Add a handful of spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and flavor.

For spicier heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to substitute linguine with fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne. Just adjust cooking time according to the pasta package instructions.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

You can make the sauce in advance and gently rewarm it while cooking the chicken and pasta. Add fresh parsley and parmesan right before serving to keep the flavors bright.