This Creamy Chicken Spaghetti brings together tender chicken and soft burrata cheese for a dish that’s rich and comforting. The lemon butter sauce adds a bright twist!
Honestly, the melty burrata makes every bite feel like a warm hug. I love to sprinkle some herbs on top for extra flavor—it’s like giving my plate a little love! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: Regular spaghetti works great, but you can swap it out for any pasta you like—fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free pasta if needed. Fresh pasta adds a delightful chewiness!
Chicken: I prefer boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their quick cooking time. If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, that’s an easy substitute. Just add it at the end to warm it through.
Heavy Cream: This ingredient gives the dish its creaminess. If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream like coconut cream, but it will change the flavor a bit.
Burrata Cheese: You can use mozzarella if burrata isn’t available. It won’t be as creamy, but you’ll still get that delicious cheesy texture. Some love ricotta for a twist, too.
Fresh Herbs: While I often use parsley, basil gives a wonderful fresh taste. Thyme or oregano can also work if that’s what you have on hand!
How Do You Get the Creamy Sauce Just Right?
Making the creamy sauce smooth and delicious is key. After cooking the garlic, slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring. This helps it to mix well without curdling. The lemon juice and zest really brighten the flavors, so don’t skip those!
- Wait for the cream to simmer gently; this helps it thicken without boiling.
- If your sauce gets too thick, stir in that reserved pasta water. Start with just a little!
- Finally, finishing with butter makes it extra rich. Stir it in off the heat for a nice glossy finish.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Protein:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Flavor and Creaminess:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Cheesy Goodness:
- 8 oz burrata cheese (1 ball), at room temperature
Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
- Red pepper flakes (optional), for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend about 10-15 minutes prepping and cooking, and just a few more to plate it all up. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. When it’s done, drain it, but be sure to save about 1/2 cup of that starchy pasta water. Set the pasta aside while you make the sauce.
2. Sauté the Chicken:
In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the olive oil. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper for flavor, and add them to the skillet. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Garlic Cream Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute, or until it’s fragrant (but be careful not to burn it!). Then, slowly pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the lemon zest and juice to brighten the flavors.
4. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Now, add the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until it’s all melted and smooth. If you find the sauce is a bit thick, just add some of that reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
5. Toss in the Spaghetti:
Finally, add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss everything together, making sure the spaghetti is well-coated with that delicious creamy sauce. Give it a good mix to combine all the flavors!
6. Final Touches:
Remove the skillet from the heat, and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter for a luxurious finish. To serve, dish out the spaghetti on plates and top each serving with torn pieces or whole balls of burrata cheese.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor. If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes on top. Serve your delicious Creamy Chicken Spaghetti immediately, while it’s warm and creamy!
Enjoy every spoonful! 😊
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is a classic choice, you can easily substitute it with fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose.
Is There a Lighter Option for the Sauce?
Yes! If you want a lighter version, you can replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream. Keep in mind that this will change the flavor slightly, but it still will be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to keep it from drying out.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like. Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or peas are great options. Just sauté them with the garlic to soften them before adding the cream.
