This creamy chicken spaghetti is a dreamy dish that’s rich and zesty, thanks to the smooth burrata and bright lemon garlic butter. It’s a perfect comfort meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: Classic spaghetti is perfect for this dish because it holds the creamy sauce well. If you want a healthier option, you can swap it with whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta.
Chicken: I recommend chicken breasts for lean protein, but thighs can add a richer flavor. For a vegetarian option, use chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms instead.
Heavy Cream: The cream gives a luxurious texture. You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version, or for a dairy-free option, use coconut milk or cashew cream.
Burrata: Burrata is soft and creamy – a delicious touch. If you can’t find it, fresh mozzarella or ricotta works too, though they won’t be as creamy.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten the dish. If you don’t have a lemon, lime can also add a fresh touch.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
The key to a smooth, creamy sauce is in the cooking technique. Start by sautéing your garlic in butter without burning it, as burnt garlic can become bitter. Then, slowly add the heavy cream, stirring constantly to keep the sauce from separating.
- Once the cream is added, turn the heat to low to prevent boiling. This helps the sauce maintain its creaminess.
- Gradually stir in the cheese, allowing it to melt fully before adding the chicken back.
- If the sauce gets too thick, use the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency. It’s the secret weapon for a silky smooth sauce!
Creamy Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Garlic Butter
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional, for freshness)
- 1 ball burrata cheese (about 8 oz)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy chicken spaghetti recipe will take about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients, followed by around 20-25 minutes cooking. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by boiling a pot of water. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta, and remember to snag about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining. Set the spaghetti aside.
2. Sauté the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season your diced chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Lemon Garlic Butter:
Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. When the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. You want to be careful not to burn the garlic!
4. Create the Cream Sauce:
Add the zested lemon and its juice to the skillet, stirring to mix everything together. Then, slowly pour in the heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer while stirring regularly.
5. Add Cheese and Spice it Up:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If you love a bit of heat, add the crushed red pepper flakes at this stage. Give it a good stir!
6. Combine Ingredients:
Return your cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing it in the delicious sauce. If you’re using cherry tomatoes, add them now and cook for another 2 minutes just until slightly softened.
7. Mix in the Pasta:
Now it’s time to add the cooked spaghetti! Toss everything together in the skillet, ensuring the pasta is well coated in the sauce. If you need a little more moisture, slowly add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
8. Plate and Add Burrata:
Transfer your creamy chicken spaghetti to serving plates or a large serving dish. Tear the burrata into pieces and place it on top of the pasta for that creamy finish!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over the top for a touch of color. If you like, you can also add an extra drizzle of lemon juice or olive oil for added flavor.
10. Enjoy Your Meal!
Dig in and savor the creamy, vibrant flavors of this delicious chicken spaghetti. It’s a delightful combination that’s sure to impress!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works perfectly for this dish, feel free to substitute with fettuccine, penne, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose.
How Can I Make This Recipe Lighter?
If you’re looking to lighten it up, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of milk. Also, using less cheese or opting for a reduced-fat version can help lower the calorie count.
Can I Meal Prep This Dish?
Yes, you can! This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
What If I Don’t Have Burrata?
If burrata isn’t available, fresh mozzarella or ricotta can be great substitutes, though they will offer a different texture. For a strong cheese flavor, you can use more grated Parmesan as well!