Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce is a delightful culinary experience that brings comfort food to an entirely new level. Imagine perfectly cooked spaghetti bathed in a rich, creamy lemon butter garlic sauce, topped with juicy pieces of seasoned chicken, the freshness of roasted cherry tomatoes, and the divine creaminess of Burrata cheese. This dish captivates your senses, making it a must-try for any meal. Not only is it a fantastic weeknight dinner that comes together quickly, but it also impresses guests and becomes a beloved family favorite. Let’s dive into this step-by-step recipe that promises to make cooking easier and enjoyable!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a real winner for several reasons. To begin with, the ingredients are straightforward and easy to find, making it perfect for any cooking skill level. If you’re busy, this dish offers quick prep that results in a meal packed with flavors, ideal for families or anyone needing a fast yet satisfying dinner option. Additionally, the combination of flavors—from the tartness of the lemon, the richness of the butter, and the savory spices—makes every bite delightful. Plus, it’s a one-skillet wonder that minimizes cleanup time, letting you focus more on enjoying your meal!
Ingredients for Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
To prepare Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 8 oz spaghetti: Perfectly al dente, it serves as a delightful base for this creamy dish.
- 1.5 lb chicken breasts: Two large, skinless, and boneless for easy cooking and tender bites.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a rich flavor to both the chicken and the sauce.
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika: Provides a warm, smoky undertone to the chicken.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A delightful herb mix that complements the chicken.
- 10 oz cherry tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, these will caramelize as they roast.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the tomatoes with robust flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic (for sauce): It enriches the lemon butter sauce for a punch of aroma.
- 4 tablespoons butter: Creates a creamy texture for the sauce.
- 1/2 lemon, thinly sliced: Preferably a Meyer lemon for a sweeter zing.
- 8 oz Burrata cheese: Luxurious and creamy, it elevates the dish to gourmet status.
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped: Adds freshness and a pop of color.
- 1/3 cup pine nuts, lightly toasted: Introduces a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
Step-by-Step Directions for Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven is crucial for roasting the tomatoes to perfection.
- Prepare the tomatoes: Toss the halved cherry tomatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Ensure they’re evenly coated, then spread them on a lined baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes until they’re soft and slightly caramelized.
- Prepare the chicken: While the tomatoes are roasting, slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create thinner pieces. Season with salt, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- Cook the chicken: Heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 5 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Remove and slice it thinly.
- Make the lemon garlic butter: In the same skillet, add lemon slices, minced garlic, and butter. Cook gently for a couple of minutes, allowing the flavors to meld, then remove from heat.
- Cook the spaghetti: Boil the spaghetti according to package directions. Drain and add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the lemon and garlic butter. Toss well to ensure the pasta is thoroughly coated, and remove the lemon slices afterward.
- Assemble the dish: Top the pasta with the sliced chicken and roasted tomatoes. Tear Burrata cheese over the top, sprinkle with fresh basil and toasted pine nuts, and give it a final seasoning of salt and pepper.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy your Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce warm, as the flavors are at their best right after plating.
Tips & Tricks
- Chef’s Secret: If you want an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and spices for about an hour before cooking.
- Optional Extras: You can elevate this dish further by adding zucchini noodles for a healthier twist or swapping pine nuts for walnuts or almonds based on your preference.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat gently to avoid overcooking the chicken.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
For an impressive presentation, serve your Chicken Spaghetti in a large, shallow bowl, garnished with additional fresh basil and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for shine. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread on the side. You might also consider serving it with a light, crisp white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling water infused with lemon and mint for a refreshing accompaniment.
Nutritional Information
While Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce is indulgent, it still offers nutritious elements. On average, this dish serves about four people, containing roughly:
- Calories: 620 per serving
- Protein: 45g
- Fat: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
For an indulgence that feels lighter, consider using whole grain spaghetti or skipping the cheese entirely, while still enjoying a hearty meal.
Storing Tips & Variations for Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
This dish is versatile! If you find yourself with leftovers, they can easily be frozen for up to a month. Just ensure the ingredients are cooled completely before storing. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. For a healthy twist, substitute the spaghetti with zucchini noodles or whole-wheat pasta, which retains a satisfying texture while reducing the glycemic impact. Feel free to try other proteins, like shrimp or tofu, to mix things up.
Conclusion for Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
Ready to impress your friends and family? This Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce is not just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create something special in your kitchen. With its mouthwatering flavors and fresh ingredients, you’ll find it hard not to indulge. Grab those ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and take yourself on a culinary adventure with this sublime dish today!
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Just combine everything when you’re ready to serve.
2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Burrata adds a rich creaminess, you could use mozzarella or ricotta for a different flavor profile.
3. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add some red pepper flakes to the chicken seasoning or incorporate diced jalapeños with the tomatoes for a kick!
4. Can I substitute the chicken?
Sure! You can use turkey or even plant-based proteins like chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian option.
5. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! The familiar flavors of lemon and chicken appeal to kids, and you can adjust the seasoning to make it milder if needed.
Dive into the joy of creating great food that brings loved ones together with this wonderful Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce!
Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti Perfectly al dente, serves as a delightful base for this creamy dish.
- 1.5 lb chicken breasts Two large, skinless, and boneless for easy cooking and tender bites.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Adds a rich flavor to both the chicken and the sauce.
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika Provides a warm, smoky undertone to the chicken.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning A delightful herb mix that complements the chicken.
- 10 oz cherry tomatoes Sweet and juicy, these will caramelize as they roast.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Infuses the tomatoes with robust flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic (for sauce) Enriches the lemon butter sauce for a punch of aroma.
- 4 tablespoons butter Creates a creamy texture for the sauce.
- 1/2 lemon thinly sliced Preferably a Meyer lemon for a sweeter zing.
- 8 oz Burrata cheese Luxurious and creamy, it elevates the dish to gourmet status.
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped Adds freshness and a pop of color.
- 1/3 cup pine nuts, lightly toasted Introduces a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
- Salt and pepper, to taste Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the halved cherry tomatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a lined baking sheet and roast for about 20 minutes until soft and slightly caramelized.
- Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create thinner pieces. Season with salt, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning.
Cooking
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 5 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Remove and slice thinly.
- In the same skillet, add lemon slices, minced garlic, and butter. Cook gently for a couple of minutes to meld the flavors, then remove from heat.
- Boil the spaghetti according to package directions. Drain and add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the lemon and garlic butter. Toss well and remove the lemon slices.
Assembly and Serving
- Top the pasta with the sliced chicken and roasted tomatoes. Tear Burrata cheese over the top, sprinkle with fresh basil and toasted pine nuts, and give it a final seasoning of salt and pepper.
- Serve immediately and enjoy warm.