1️⃣ Prepare the chicken:

Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.

Heat 2 tbsp of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and fully cooked through.

2️⃣ Add garlic and lemon:

Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the minced garlic, lemon zest, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to let the chicken absorb the bright, garlicky flavors. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3️⃣ Cook the pasta:

While the chicken rests, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

4️⃣ Make the Parmesan sauce:

In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Stir in the heavy cream and garlic powder, whisking until smooth.

Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, whisking until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5️⃣ Combine the pasta:

Add the cooked linguine to the skillet with the sauce. Toss until the pasta is fully coated. If needed, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired sauce consistency.

6️⃣ Serve and garnish:

Plate the pasta and top it with the garlic butter chicken. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.