Lemon Butter Garlic Chicken Pasta with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes and Burrata Cheese sounds like a mouthful, right? But trust me, it’s one of those dishes that hits all the right spots: creamy, tangy, garlicky, and oh-so comforting. If you’re into pasta that feels fancy but is actually pretty straightforward, this one will probably become a go-to.
Why You’ll Love Lemon Butter Garlic Chicken Pasta
Ever had a pasta dish that just feels like a warm hug? This one does that with a zesty twist. The lemon butter sauce adds brightness without being overpowering, while the garlic brings that classic punch we all crave. Roasted cherry tomatoes burst with sweetness and balance the richness perfectly. And then, topping it off with burrata cheese? That’s like the grand finale at a fireworks show creamy, dreamy, and totally indulgent.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s the lineup for this flavor party:
- Chicken breasts or thighs (your call, but I prefer breasts for quick cooking)
- Cherry tomatoes (the smaller, the sweeter)
- Pasta (linguine or fettuccine work great)
- Butter (because, well, butter)
- Garlic cloves (lots of them, because garlic makes everything better)
- Fresh lemon juice and zest
- Fresh basil or parsley for a pop of green
- Burrata cheese (the star of the show)
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes if you want a little heat
How I Make Lemon Butter Garlic Chicken Pasta
1: Roast Those Cherry Tomatoes
I toss the cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast them at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness and softens them just right.
2: Cook the Chicken
While the tomatoes roast, I season the chicken with salt, pepper, and a little garlic powder. Then, I pan-fry it in butter and olive oil until golden and cooked through. Pro tip: don’t overcrowd the pan, or you’ll steam the chicken instead of getting that nice sear.
3: Make the Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
In the same pan (because who wants extra dishes?), I melt more butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Then, I add fresh lemon juice and zest, stirring it all together to make a bright, buttery sauce.
4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
I cook the pasta until just al dente and toss it right into the pan with the sauce. Adding a splash of pasta water helps the sauce cling to every strand. Then, I slice the chicken and add it back in along with those roasted cherry tomatoes.
5: Finish with Burrata
Right before serving, I tear the burrata cheese over the top. The cheese melts slightly from the warmth, creating pockets of creamy goodness that make every bite special.
Serving The Lemon Butter Garlic Chicken Pasta
Serve this pasta with a simple green salad or some crusty garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce. A glass of chilled white wine pairs beautifully something crisp like a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh lemons for the best flavor; bottled lemon juice just won’t cut it here.
- Don’t skip roasting the tomatoes; they add a sweet depth that balances the lemon.
- Burrata can be pricey, but it’s worth it. If budget’s tight, mozzarella balls are a decent backup.
- Keep an eye on the garlic while sautéing; burnt garlic turns bitter fast.
Variations I’ve Tried And Loved
- Swap chicken for shrimp for a seafood twist.
- Add a handful of spinach or arugula for some greens.
- Stir in a splash of white wine into the sauce for extra complexity.
- Sprinkle toasted pine nuts on top for crunch.
Leftovers and Storage
This pasta tastes great reheated, but I usually keep the burrata separate and add it fresh when serving leftovers. Store the pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of water to avoid drying out.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the chicken; it dries out quickly.
- Adding too much lemon juice at once start small and adjust to taste.
- Forgetting to reserve pasta water; it helps the sauce stick better.
- Skipping seasoning at every stage; salt and pepper are your friends.
Why You Should Try Lemon Butter Garlic Chicken Pasta
If you’re craving a pasta dish that’s easy to whip up but feels like a special occasion, this recipe nails it. The combo of tangy lemon, rich butter, savory garlic, sweet roasted tomatoes, and creamy burrata creates a harmony that’s hard to beat. Plus, it’s flexible enough to tweak based on what you have in the fridge or your mood. Give it a shot you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner. And hey, if nothing else, it’s a great excuse to eat burrata for dinner. Who can argue with that?