Are you ready for a culinary adventure that will make your taste buds dance? Look no further than this tantalizing Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce! Featuring creamy burrata, succulent chicken, and a zesty garlic butter sauce, this dish is bursting with flavor and is perfect for any night of the week. The combination of juicy chicken and fresh cherry tomatoes creates a delightful contrast, while the burrata cheese adds an indulgent creaminess that elevates this pasta dish to one of your new favorites.
What’s more, preparation is simple, making it a great option for busy weeknights or a weekend feast with friends and family. With a few fresh ingredients and some aromatic herbs, you can create a plate that not only looks stunning but tastes divine. Whether you are a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this Chicken Spaghetti is straightforward enough to encourage creativity while ensuring a delicious outcome. Let’s dive into the delicious world of flavors and learn how to make this delightful dish!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
- This dish combines juicy chicken and creamy burrata, providing a rich and satisfying meal.
- The lemon butter garlic sauce adds a fresh zing that perfectly complements the sweetness of roasted tomatoes.
- Preparation and cooking time is minimal, making this a convenient weeknight dinner choice.
- With fresh basil and toasted pine nuts, you add flavor and texture, making every bite exciting.
- It’s visually appealing, perfect for impressing dinner guests!
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the cooking process of your Chicken Spaghetti, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and workspace for a smooth experience. Start by gathering all the ingredients listed above so that you won’t need to search for anything mid-cooking. You will also need a few key tools: a baking sheet for roasting tomatoes, a skillet for cooking the chicken and making the sauce, and a pot for boiling the spaghetti. Make sure your pots and pans are clean and ready to use!
Additionally, it’s helpful to have measuring cups and spoons on hand for accurate ingredient measurement, as well as a sharp knife for slicing chicken and tomatoes. Before you begin cooking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), ensuring it’s hot and ready to roast the tomatoes to perfection.
Ingredients
- 10 oz cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for tomatoes)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced (for tomatoes)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1½ lbs chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for chicken)
- ½ Meyer lemon, thinly sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced (for sauce)
- 4 tbsp butter
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 8 oz burrata cheese
- ½ cup fresh basil, chopped
- ⅓ cup toasted pine nuts
Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, place the halved cherry or grape tomatoes in a mixing bowl. Drizzle them with two tablespoons of olive oil and add three minced garlic cloves, along with a sprinkle of salt and black pepper to taste. Toss everything together until the tomatoes are evenly coated. Next, spread the seasoned tomatoes on a baking sheet in an even layer. Roast them in the preheated oven for around 20 minutes or until they are blistered and aromatic. This roasting process enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes while infusing them with the garlic flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
While the tomatoes are roasting, it’s time to cook your chicken. Begin by seasoning the thinly sliced chicken breasts with a quarter teaspoon of salt, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning. In a large skillet, heat two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken slices in the skillet. Cook for about five minutes on each side until the chicken is evenly browned and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate, allowing it to rest while you prepare the sauce.
Step 3: Create the Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet with the drippings from the chicken, add the thinly sliced Meyer lemon and four minced garlic cloves. Cook them over medium heat for a couple of minutes until the garlic is fragrant. Next, add the four tablespoons of butter to the skillet and allow it to melt, stirring occasionally. This sauce will develop a creamy, aromatic base that pairs beautifully with each element of your dish.
Step 4: Boil the Pasta
In a separate pot, bring salted water to a boil and add eight ounces of spaghetti. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until it becomes al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, reserve half a cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta. When it is drained, add the spaghetti to the skillet with the lemon butter garlic sauce, tossing everything together. The reserved pasta water can be gradually added to achieve your desired sauce consistency, ensuring that the pasta is well and evenly coated.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
To serve, plate a portion of the pasta onto each dish and top generously with slices of cooked chicken, a spoonful of the roasted tomatoes, and torn pieces of creamy burrata. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil and toasted pine nuts for added texture and flavor. This dish is best enjoyed warm, and you can also add extra basil or a squeeze of lemon for an extra burst of freshness if desired.
Variations
- Protein: Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option. Grilled salmon also adds a delightful flavor.
- Vegetables: Enhance the dish by adding sautéed spinach, kale, or zucchini ribbons for extra nutrition and color.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices, such as chili flakes for heat or fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for more depth of flavor.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure the chicken is cooked through by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
- Roasting the tomatoes not only enhances their flavor but also helps to keep them from becoming mushy when mixed with pasta.
- If burrata isn’t available, mascarpone cheese can be used as a substitute for creaminess.
- For a low-carb version, consider using zucchini noodles instead of spaghetti.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this dish with a crisp green salad to balance the creamy elements of the pasta.
- A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon would complement the meal beautifully.
Tips
- Feel free to prepare the roasted tomatoes ahead of time to save time during meal prep.
- For a stronger garlic flavor, consider adding roasted garlic instead of fresh minced garlic in the sauce.
- The dish can easily be doubled or halved depending on the number of servings needed.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 650
- Protein: 40g
- Sodium: 600mg
FAQs
Can I use different pasta for this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute spaghetti with any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free options.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This Chicken Spaghetti can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Chicken Spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
What’s the best way to serve this dish?
This dish is best served immediately while it’s warm. Garnish with fresh basil and a squeeze of lemon for added brightness.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce is an exquisite dish that will leave you craving more. It beautifully blends flavors and textures, presenting a feast for both the eyes and the palate. The ease of preparation and the delightful taste make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. So why not share it with friends or family, and don’t hesitate to try different variations to make it your own. After all, the kitchen is a space for creativity! We hope you enjoy every bite of this dish as much as we do. If you try this recipe, please share your experience and any modifications you made in the comments below!
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Delicious Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Are you ready for a culinary adventure that will make your taste buds dance? Look no further than this tantalizing Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce!
Ingredients
- 10 oz cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for tomatoes)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced (for tomatoes)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1½ lbs chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for chicken)
- ½ Meyer lemon, thinly sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced (for sauce)
- 4 tbsp butter
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 8 oz burrata cheese
- ½ cup fresh basil, chopped
- ⅓ cup toasted pine nuts
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, place the halved cherry or grape tomatoes in a mixing bowl. Drizzle them with two tablespoons of olive oil and add three minced garlic cloves, along with a sprinkle of salt and black pepper to taste. Toss everything together until the tomatoes are evenly coated. Next, spread the seasoned tomatoes on a baking sheet in an even layer. Roast them in the preheated oven for around 20 minutes or until they are blistered and aromatic.
- While the tomatoes are roasting, it’s time to cook your chicken. Begin by seasoning the thinly sliced chicken breasts with a quarter teaspoon of salt, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning. In a large skillet, heat two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken slices in the skillet. Cook for about five minutes on each side until the chicken is evenly browned and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet with the drippings from the chicken, add the thinly sliced Meyer lemon and four minced garlic cloves. Cook them over medium heat for a couple of minutes until the garlic is fragrant. Next, add the four tablespoons of butter to the skillet and allow it to melt, stirring occasionally.
- In a separate pot, bring salted water to a boil and add eight ounces of spaghetti. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until it becomes al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, reserve half a cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta. When it is drained, add the spaghetti to the skillet with the lemon butter garlic sauce, tossing everything together.
- To serve, plate a portion of the pasta onto each dish and top generously with slices of cooked chicken, a spoonful of the roasted tomatoes, and torn pieces of creamy burrata. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil and toasted pine nuts for added texture and flavor.
Notes
Ensure the chicken is cooked through by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Roasting the tomatoes not only enhances their flavor but also helps to keep them from becoming mushy when mixed with pasta. If burrata isn’t available, mascarpone cheese can be used as a substitute for creaminess. For a low-carb version, consider using zucchini noodles instead of spaghetti.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Protein: 40 g