Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce is the perfect dish that brings together creamy textures and vibrant flavors in a simple yet sophisticated way. This comforting meal features al dente spaghetti combined with tender chicken pieces, all enveloped in a luscious lemon butter garlic sauce that will have your taste buds dancing. Topped with fresh burrata, this recipe is not only a delight for your palate but also a feast for your eyes, making it the perfect choice for a family dinner or a special occasion.
Why We Love This Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe
This recipe is loved for its balance of flavors and easy preparation. The tenderness of the chicken paired with the richness of the burrata creates a delightful contrast that elevates your dining experience. The bright notes of lemon in the butter garlic sauce cut through the richness, making it a refreshing dish. Plus, you only need a handful of ingredients to whip this up, making it a convenient option for weeknight meals or when entertaining guests. The versatility of this dish allows for customization, letting you add your favorite vegetables or switch up the proteins as you see fit. Every bite offers a taste of comfort, making it a go-to meal in any home.
Ingredients for 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
Start by filling a large pot with water, adding a generous amount of salt, and bringing it to a boil. This is the water you will use to cook the spaghetti, ensuring each strand absorbs the necessary salt for flavor. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, which usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Remember to reserve half a cup of the pasta water before draining, as you’ll need it later to help bind the sauce.
While the pasta is cooking, you can work on the chicken. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper to enhance their taste. Add the chicken to the hot skillet and sauté it for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Next, lower the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter to the same skillet. Let it melt, and once it’s melted and sizzling, add the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes. Sauté these for 1 to 2 minutes, ensuring that the garlic becomes fragrant but does not brown—burnt garlic can have a bitter taste.
Now, it’s time to enhance your sauce with some fresh flavors. Stir in the lemon zest and juice along with the chicken broth. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 2 to 3 minutes, giving the flavors a chance to meld together beautifully.
Once your sauce is ready, return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained spaghetti. Toss everything together to coat the pasta and chicken in the luscious sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, you can gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. To finish, add the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until it’s well incorporated.
Plate your wonderful chicken spaghetti and finish it off with the star of the show: the burrata cheese. Tear it into pieces and place it atop the pasta, allowing it to melt slightly into the warm dish. Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
How to Serve Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
Serving Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce is an experience that beckons everyone to gather around the table. You can serve this dish directly from the skillet for a rustic feel or plate it individually for a more elegant presentation. Either way works beautifully!
To enhance the flavors, consider serving it with a side of crusty bread; it’s perfect for enjoying the extra sauce. A light salad with mixed greens, tossed in a simple vinaigrette, pairs wonderfully to balance the richness of the pasta. If you want to take it up a notch, consider adding a sprinkle of your favorite herbs or even some cherry tomatoes roasted for an extra layer of flavor. The creaminess of burrata against the meatiness of chicken and the acidity of lemon makes every bite delightful, ensuring that your guests will savor this dish from the first forkful to the last bite.
Expert Tips: Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
Here are some expert tips to elevate your Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce to perfection:
- Choose the Right Spaghetti: While the recipe uses traditional spaghetti, feel free to try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit your dietary preferences.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Keep an eye on the chicken while cooking to avoid drying it out. It should be golden brown and tender when cooked properly.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and a good quality unsalted butter will significantly improve the flavor of your sauce. If possible, use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best citrus flavor.
- Make it Spicy: If you like heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add some sliced fresh chili to the sauté with the garlic for an extra kick.
- Customize Your Dish: Add in seasonal vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for a nutritional boost and more vibrant flavors.
- Reserve Enough Pasta Water: The reserved pasta water is a game-changer for binding the sauce. Don’t skip this step!
- Using Burrata: If you can’t find burrata, fresh mozzarella or ricotta can be good substitutes, although the texture won’t be quite the same.
How to Store Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
If you have leftovers (which is rare, given how delicious this dish is), storing your Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce is straightforward. Allow the dish to cool down to room temperature before transferring it into an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat gently in a skillet. Add a splash of chicken broth or some reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce as it heats. Microwaving is an option too, but be aware that the texture of the burrata may change, losing its creaminess.
Variation of Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
Here are some fun variations of Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce to explore:
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or even chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian dish.
- Seafood Twist: Swap chicken for shrimp or scallops, adjusting the cooking time accordingly. Seafood will add an exciting flavor dimension that pairs beautifully with the garlic and lemon.
- Creamy Spin: For a creamier dish, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the sauce right after the butter melts. This will create a richer base.
- Herb-Infused: Enhance the freshness by incorporating herbs like basil, thyme, or dill into your sauce. They pair well with lemon and will give your dish a delightful aroma.
- Nutty Addition: Toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds can provide a pleasant crunch when sprinkled on top just before serving.
- Spicy Italian Style: Transform the dish by adding Italian sausage alongside the chicken for that spicy Italian flair, while reducing the red pepper flakes.
FAQ
What is Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce?
Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce is a comforting pasta dish featuring bite-sized chicken pieces, sautéed in a rich lemon butter garlic sauce, served over spaghetti and topped with creamy burrata cheese.
How long does it take to make Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce?
It usually takes about 30 to 40 minutes to prepare and cook Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce, making it a quick and satisfying meal option.
Can I make Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. Store the leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days and reheat on the stove or microwave, adding a bit of broth to loosen the sauce.
What can I serve with Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce?
You can serve the dish with crusty bread, a light salad, or even roasted vegetables to complement the flavors and texture of the pasta.
Can I customize the recipe for Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with shrimp or vegetables, add additional herbs or spices, or tweak the sauce to your preferences, making it as versatile as your creativity allows.
Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 12 oz spaghetti To be cooked until al dente
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces Use high quality chicken for best flavor
- Salt and pepper, to taste Use freshly cracked pepper for best results
Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing chicken
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic is recommended for best flavor
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) Adjust according to spice preference
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick) Use quality butter for richness
- 1 zest and juice of 1 lemon Preferably freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 cup chicken broth Low-sodium preferred to control saltiness
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese For finishing the dish
- 1 ball burrata cheese (about 4 oz) To be torn and used as a topping
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish For adding freshness to the dish
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Fill a large pot with water, add a generous amount of salt, and bring it to a boil.
- Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, approximately 8 to 10 minutes.
- Reserve half a cup of pasta water before draining.
Preparing the Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add to the hot skillet.
- Sauté the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Making the Sauce
- Lower heat to medium, add the unsalted butter to the skillet and let it melt.
- Once melted, add minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes, sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in lemon zest and juice along with chicken broth. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes.
Combining the Ingredients
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained spaghetti and toss everything together.
- Add reserved pasta water gradually until the desired consistency is reached.
- Mix in grated Parmesan cheese until well incorporated.
Serving
- Plate the chicken spaghetti and top with torn burrata cheese.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve.
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