There’s something undeniably magical about the combination of pasta, tender chicken, and a silky sauce that brings them together in perfect harmony. This Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce takes that classic pairing to new heights with a sauce that strikes the perfect balance between richness and brightness. Crowned with creamy burrata that melts into the warm pasta, this Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce delivers a restaurant-quality experience in the comfort of your own home.
Unlike heavy cream-based pasta dishes that can leave you feeling weighed down, this Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce uses the bright notes of lemon to cut through the richness of the butter and cheese. The garlic adds depth without overpowering, while perfectly cooked chicken provides satisfying protein. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply elevating your weeknight menu, this Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce is sure to impress without requiring hours in the kitchen or advanced culinary techniques.
Table of Contents
The Perfect Balance of Flavors in Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
What makes this Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce so special is its thoughtful balance of flavors and textures. The sauce combines the richness of butter with the bright acidity of fresh lemon and the aromatic depth of garlic, creating a combination that’s simultaneously indulgent and refreshing. This sauce clings beautifully to the strands of spaghetti, ensuring that every bite of your Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce delivers a perfect distribution of flavor.
The addition of burrata takes this Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce to another level entirely. Unlike regular mozzarella, burrata features a solid outer shell with a creamy, almost liquid center that creates a luxurious experience when broken open over the hot pasta. As it gently warms from the heat of the spaghetti, it creates a silky coating that enriches the entire Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce without requiring a heavy cream-based sauce.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Pasta and Sauce:
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Topping Your Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce:
- 8 ounces burrata cheese (2 balls)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Additional lemon zest for garnish
- Fresh basil leaves, torn
- Flaky sea salt
The Art of Ingredient Selection
The simplicity of this Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce means that the quality of each ingredient significantly impacts the final result. Here’s what to look for when selecting your components:
Chicken Selection and Preparation
Choose chicken breasts that are approximately the same size to ensure even cooking in your Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce. For the juiciest results, consider brining the chicken breasts in a solution of 1 tablespoon salt dissolved in 4 cups of water for 15-30 minutes before cooking. This simple step helps the chicken retain moisture during cooking. Pat the chicken completely dry before seasoning to ensure proper browning.
Pasta Considerations
While spaghetti is the classic choice for this Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce, you can substitute other long pasta shapes like linguine or fettuccine. Regardless of shape, be sure to cook the pasta to al dente – this slight firmness provides the perfect texture and allows the pasta to finish cooking in the sauce, absorbing more flavor. Salt your pasta water generously until it “tastes like the sea” – this is your only opportunity to season the pasta itself.
The Star of the Show: Burrata for Your Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
Burrata is a fresh Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream. For the best experience in your Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce, serve burrata at room temperature; remove it from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before you plan to use it. When shopping, look for burrata that feels plump and firm on the outside but yields slightly to gentle pressure, indicating the creamy interior. The fresher the burrata, the better, so check expiration dates or ask your cheesemonger for the freshest option.
Lemon Selection
Since both the zest and juice of the lemon are crucial components of this Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce, opt for organic lemons when possible to avoid pesticide residue on the skin. Choose lemons that feel heavy for their size and have bright, smooth skin, which indicates juiciness. A slight give when gently squeezed also suggests a juicy lemon, perfect for providing the bright notes that balance this dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
Begin by placing the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pounding them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This ensures even cooking and tender results for your Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce. In a small bowl, combine the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on the first side until golden brown. Flip and continue cooking for another 5-6 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips against the grain. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist chicken for your Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce.
Cooking the Pasta for Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Before draining, reserve about 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water – this liquid gold will help create a silky sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta in your Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce.
Drain the pasta but don’t rinse it; the starch on the surface helps the sauce adhere better. If you’re not immediately ready to combine it with the sauce, toss the drained pasta with a small drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Creating the Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet used for the chicken (don’t wipe it out – those browned bits add flavor to your Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce!), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Garlic can quickly burn and become bitter, so keep a close eye on it.
Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet, stirring to combine. The lemon juice will cause the butter to sizzle as it deglazes the pan, lifting any flavorful browned bits from cooking the chicken. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 1 minute to meld the flavors for your Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce.
Bringing It All Together: Assembling Your Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
Add the cooked spaghetti directly to the skillet with the sauce. Using tongs, toss the pasta thoroughly to coat it with the lemon butter garlic sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. The starch in the pasta water helps create a silky texture while helping the sauce cling to the pasta.
Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, tossing to incorporate. Add the sliced chicken back to the skillet, gently folding it into the pasta to warm it through. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed for your Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce.
The Final Touch: Adding Burrata to Your Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
Transfer the pasta to a serving platter or individual plates. Tear the burrata balls into pieces and arrange them over the hot pasta. The heat will gently warm the cheese, causing the creamy center to begin melting into the dish. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, sprinkle with additional lemon zest, torn basil leaves, and a light dusting of flaky sea salt to complete your Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce.
For the most dramatic presentation, let your guests break into the burrata themselves, revealing the creamy interior that will create a luscious sauce when mixed with the pasta.
Tips for Success
Achieving the Perfect Sauce Consistency
The key to a silky sauce in your Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce is emulsion – the proper combining of fat (butter) and water (lemon juice and pasta water). To achieve this, make sure your butter is cold when added to the pan, and whisk vigorously when combining with the lemon juice. If your sauce separates, a splash of cold pasta water and quick whisking can help bring it back together.
Make-Ahead Options for Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
While this dish is best enjoyed freshly made, you can prepare certain components of your Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce ahead of time:
- Cook and slice the chicken up to a day in advance, storing it covered in the refrigerator. Bring to room temperature before adding to the hot pasta.
- The lemon butter garlic sauce can be prepared a few hours ahead and gently rewarmed just before tossing with the pasta.
- For best results, cook the pasta and assemble the Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce just before serving, as the texture of pasta changes significantly when stored.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
This Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce is substantial enough to serve as a main course on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. If you’re hosting a dinner party, consider serving your Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the lemony notes in the dish.
For a complete Italian-inspired meal, start with a light antipasto platter and finish with a simple dessert like lemon sorbet or affogato – espresso poured over vanilla gelato to complement your Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce.
Variations
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, consider these delicious variations:
Seafood Substitution
Replace the chicken with 1 pound of large shrimp or sea scallops for an elegant seafood version of Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce. Cook the seafood just until opaque and slightly firm, being careful not to overcook. The delicate sweetness of seafood pairs beautifully with the lemon butter sauce.
Vegetarian Adaptation of Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
For a meatless option, omit the chicken and add 2 cups of roasted vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, asparagus, or zucchini to your Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce. Roast the vegetables at 425°F (220°C) until tender and slightly caramelized before adding them to the pasta.
Herb Variations
Experiment with different herbs in your Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce. Substitute the parsley with fresh dill for a unique flavor profile, or add 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves along with the parsley for additional aromatic notes.
Spice Adjustments to Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
For those who enjoy heat, increase the red pepper flakes to 1/2 teaspoon or add a finely chopped fresh chili to the garlic as it cooks in the butter. The spice creates an interesting counterpoint to the richness of the burrata in your Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
Can I use pre-cooked chicken to save time when making Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce? Yes, you can substitute about 2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken for your Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce. Add it to the sauce just long enough to warm through. While convenient, you’ll miss out on the flavorful bits left in the pan from searing the chicken, which enhance the sauce.
What can I substitute for burrata if I can’t find it for my Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce? If burrata is unavailable for your Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce, use fresh mozzarella torn into pieces, plus 2-3 tablespoons of heavy cream drizzled over the hot pasta to mimic burrata’s creamy center. Alternatively, ricotta cheese can provide a different but equally delicious creamy element.
How do I prevent the pasta from becoming dry in my Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce? Saving adequate pasta water is key for your Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce. If your dish seems dry when serving, drizzle each portion with a small amount of good olive oil. Also, slightly undercook the pasta and finish it in the sauce, where it will absorb flavor while releasing starch that thickens the sauce.
Can this Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce be made gluten-free? Absolutely. Simply substitute your favorite gluten-free spaghetti in your Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce. Since gluten-free pasta can sometimes be starchier, you may need less pasta water to achieve the right sauce consistency. The rest of the recipe remains unchanged.
How do I store and reheat leftover Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce? Store leftover Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or chicken broth to the pasta before warming gently over low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Add fresh burrata only after reheating, as it doesn’t store well once broken.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce elevates everyday ingredients into a memorable dining experience. The combination of perfectly cooked chicken, al dente spaghetti, and a bright, buttery sauce creates a foundation for the crowning glory—creamy burrata, which transforms the dish into something truly special. The contrast between the tangy sauce and rich cheese, the tender chicken and toothsome pasta, creates a harmonious balance that delights with every bite—just like the perfect fusion of flavors in creamy Parmesan Italian sausage soup.
A Dish That Impresses with Minimal Effort
What makes this Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce worth adding to your recipe collection is its impressive presentation despite its relatively simple preparation. Similar to one-pan chicken with creamy buttered noodles, this dish offers restaurant-quality flavors without requiring hours in the kitchen.
The bright flavors of lemon and the indulgent creaminess of burrata create a pasta experience that feels both luxurious and refreshing—a rare combination that ensures this dish will become a favorite for both special occasions and elevated weeknight dinners. Just like the rich yet refreshing contrast found in French onion butter rice, this dish achieves a perfect balance of comfort and sophistication.
For a complete meal, pair this dish with a side of crisp, fresh greens or a light appetizer like shrimp rice bowl to enhance its vibrant flavors.
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Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata & Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. The bright, buttery sauce coats al dente pasta and tender chicken, while creamy burrata melts into the dish creating a luxurious finish. The perfect balance of richness and acidity makes this pasta dish special enough for entertaining yet simple enough for weeknight cooking.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 8 ounces burrata cheese (2 balls)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (for finishing)
- Fresh basil leaves, torn
- Flaky sea salt
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts between plastic wrap and pound to even 1/2-inch thickness. Season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken 5-6 minutes per side until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove to cutting board, rest 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
- Meanwhile, bring a large pot of generously salted water to boil. Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
- In the same skillet used for chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine and simmer gently for 1 minute.
- Add cooked spaghetti directly to the skillet. Toss to coat with sauce, adding pasta water a tablespoon at a time if needed to reach desired consistency.
- Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese and parsley, tossing to incorporate. Add sliced chicken back to skillet and gently fold to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Transfer pasta to serving platter or individual plates. Tear burrata balls into pieces and arrange over hot pasta.
- Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, sprinkle with additional lemon zest, torn basil leaves, and flaky sea salt.
- Serve immediately, allowing guests to break into the burrata themselves to release the creamy center.
Notes
- For the best texture, be careful not to overcook the pasta – it should be al dente as it will continue cooking slightly in the warm sauce.
- Room temperature burrata melts more beautifully over the hot pasta – remove it from the refrigerator 30 minutes before using.
- The dish comes together quickly once you start cooking, so have all ingredients prepped and ready before beginning.
- For a time-saving variation, use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, though fresh burrata should be added only upon serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
- Calories: 720
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 740mg
- Fat: 42g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
Keywords: chicken pasta recipe, burrata pasta, lemon butter pasta, chicken spaghetti, garlic butter sauce, Italian chicken pasta, creamy pasta without cream