This creamy chicken spaghetti is a warm hug in a bowl! With tender chicken, rich burrata cheese, and zesty lemon garlic sauce, it’s sure to make your taste buds dance.
I love how the burrata makes this dish extra special. It’s like a little surprise in every bite! Perfect for impressing friends or a cozy night in. Who’s ready for seconds? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: I like using traditional spaghetti, but you could swap it for whole wheat spaghetti, gluten-free pasta, or even zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a healthier twist!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. If you prefer, using rotisserie chicken will save time because it’s already cooked. Just shred it into bite-sized pieces.
Burrata Cheese: The star of the dish! If you can’t find burrata, fresh mozzarella is a good alternative. It won’t have the same creaminess, but it still melts beautifully.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even evaporated milk. Just note that the sauce may be a bit thinner.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest really brighten the dish. If you’re out of lemons, a splash of white wine vinegar can add a nice tang!
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken to perfection can be simple if you follow a few key steps. Make sure to cut the chicken into similar-sized pieces to allow for even cooking.
- Heat your skillet to medium-high before adding the chicken. This helps to sear and brown the pieces nicely.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook the chicken in batches to ensure they cook evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper before cooking. This adds flavor right from the start!
By watching the color and using a meat thermometer to check for doneness (at least 165°F or 75°C), you’ll have perfectly juicy chicken every time!
Creamy Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
For the Chicken:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (zest and juice)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
For the Topping:
- 1 ball burrata cheese (about 8 oz/225 g)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Extra lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy chicken spaghetti takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and cooking the pasta and chicken. The sauce comes together quickly—allow just 10-15 minutes for that! Enjoy the deliciousness right away!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add in your spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. It usually takes around 8-10 minutes. After that, drain the spaghetti and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Chicken:
While the pasta cooks, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season your bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then toss them into the skillet. Cook until they’re golden brown and fully cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Once it’s melted, throw in the minced garlic, lemon zest, and optional red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes to let those flavors burst and become fragrant.
4. Combine the Flavors:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Scrape any delicious browned bits from the bottom of the skillet—this adds amazing flavor! Let it all simmer for about 2-3 minutes.
5. Creamy Goodness:
Next, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, cooking while stirring until the sauce thickens a bit, about 3-4 minutes. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning if needed!
6. Bring it All Together:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it around so it gets coated in that luscious sauce. Then, gently combine the cooked spaghetti with the chicken and sauce until everything is evenly mixed.
7. Serve & Enjoy:
Time to serve! Plate the pasta, and tear the burrata cheese over the top, letting it melt into the warm spaghetti. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for that fresh zing. Enjoy your creamy chicken spaghetti right away!
FAQ – Creamy Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Garlic Sauce
Can I Substitute the Spaghetti for Another Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose.
What Can I Use Instead of Burrata Cheese?
If burrata is hard to find, fresh mozzarella is a great substitute. While it won’t have the same creamy center, it still melts beautifully and gives a lovely texture to the dish.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce has thickened.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! You can skip the chicken entirely and add more vegetables, like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers. You can also include plant-based protein like chickpeas for added heartiness!
