Name: Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 10 oz cherry tomatoes (or grape tomatoes, sliced in half); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1.5 lb chicken breast (2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts, sliced thinly horizontally); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 lemon (preferably Meyer lemon), thinly sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 4 tablespoons butter; 8 oz spaghetti; 8 oz Burrata cheese; 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped; 1/3 cup pine nuts, lightly toasted

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 15 reviews

If you’re looking for a vibrant, comforting dish that brings together succulent chicken, creamy burrata, and a zesty, luscious lemon butter garlic sauce, you’ve just found your new favorite. This Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe is a beautiful harmony of flavors and textures that feels both indulgent and fresh. Roasted cherry tomatoes add a sweet burst, pine nuts bring a gentle crunch, and fresh basil ties everything together into a dish that’s as stunning to serve as it is satisfying to eat. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll quickly become a go-to for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a metal baking tray filled with roasted small tomatoes in red and yellow colors. The tomatoes are spread out in a single layer across the tray with browned and slightly charred spots around them, indicating they have been roasted well. The tomatoes have a shiny, soft texture with some blackened bits scattered around, showing caramelization from roasting. The baking tray sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients might look simple, but each one is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor, aroma, and texture in this dish. From the creamy burrata to the bright Meyer lemon, every item plays a crucial role in crafting this irresistible pasta.

Cherry tomatoes (10 oz): Roasted to bring out their natural sweetness and a slight caramelized edge that elevates the sauce.
Olive oil (4 tablespoons): Used for roasting tomatoes and searing chicken, adding a rich, fruity depth.
Garlic (7 cloves): Minced and sliced for fragrant, buttery goodness that infuses both the sauce and the roasted tomatoes.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance everything without overpowering the fresh ingredients.
Chicken breasts (1.5 lb, skinless and boneless): Thinly sliced for quick cooking and tender, juicy bites.
Smoked paprika (2 teaspoons): Adds a subtle smoky warmth that complements the lemon and butter beautifully.
Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A classic herb blend boosting the Mediterranean vibe.
Meyer lemon (½ lemon, thinly sliced): Brings a delicate, floral citrus note that brightens the rich sauce.
Butter (4 tablespoons): Creates that silky lemon butter garlic sauce that coats every strand of spaghetti.
Spaghetti (8 oz): The perfect pasta shape to carry the sauce and toppings equally.
Burrata cheese (8 oz): Creamy and indulgent, it melts slightly over the warm pasta for a luscious finish.
Fresh basil (½ cup, chopped): Adds a fresh, herbaceous pop of color and flavor.
Pine nuts (⅓ cup, lightly toasted): Provide a crunchy contrast and a nutty depth to the overall dish.

How to Make Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Roast the Cherry Tomatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Toss your cherry tomatoes that you’ve sliced in half with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, a pinch of salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Spread them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet with enough space so they roast evenly without steaming. Pop them into the oven for about 20 minutes until they are bursting and slightly caramelized. These roasted tomatoes will bring a rich, sweet acidity to the dish that balances the richness of the butter and burrata.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While your tomatoes are roasting, it’s time to prep the chicken. Take your 1.5 pounds of chicken breasts and slice each horizontally to create thinner pieces; this helps them cook quickly and stay juicy. Season generously with salt, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the chicken and cook it for about 5 minutes on each side or until cooked through with a beautiful golden crust. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and slice it thinly. The smoky spices here add a captivating depth that partners wonderfully with the brightness of the lemon sauce.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce

Keep the same skillet — no need to dirty another pan — and add your thinly sliced Meyer lemon, 4 cloves of minced garlic, and the butter. Cook gently over low to medium heat for a few minutes to soften the lemons and infuse the butter with floral citrus and garlicky warmth. Be careful not to burn the garlic; you want soft, fragrant pieces that melt into the sauce. This luscious sauce is the heart of the recipe, layering vibrant freshness with creamy indulgence.

Step 4: Cook the Spaghetti

While your sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook 8 ounces of spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well, saving a touch of pasta water if needed for loosening the sauce later.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add your drained spaghetti directly into the skillet with the lemon slices, garlic, and melted butter. Toss everything together thoroughly so every strand is glossy with that delicious lemon butter garlic sauce. After mixing, remove and discard the lemon slices – their job is done. This step ensures the pasta is perfectly coated and ready to be layered with the rest of the ingredients.

Step 6: Assemble the Dish

Now it’s time for the final flourish. Top your buttered lemon spaghetti with the sliced chicken, followed by those heavenly oven-roasted tomatoes. Scatter fresh chopped basil and toasted pine nuts over the top for refreshing color and texture. Lastly, tear or dollop generous portions of creamy burrata cheese around the plate. The burrata slowly melts into the warm pasta, creating pockets of creamy richness that make this recipe a true showstopper.

How to Serve Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe

A white bowl filled with thick spaghetti noodles mixed with small pieces of grilled chicken that have a light brown and slightly crispy texture. Scattered through the pasta are bright red and yellow roasted cherry tomatoes, adding vibrant pops of color. Sprinkled fresh green herbs and small toasted pine nuts are spread evenly on top, providing texture and contrast. Near the center, there is a soft white cheese dollop with a drizzle of yellow olive oil and some crushed black pepper flakes. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves and lightly toasted pine nuts are your best friends for garnishing this dish — they add a herbal brightness and a subtle nutty crunch that balances the creamy burrata and buttery sauce. A light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil over the top just before serving takes it to the next level.

Side Dishes

Pair this chicken spaghetti with a crisp, green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for freshness. Crunchy garlic bread or a rustic baguette is perfect for soaking up the incredible leftover lemon butter garlic sauce. A side of roasted asparagus or sautéed green beans complements the dish without competing with its vibrant flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve the pasta on large white plates to let the bright colors shine. Place the burrata in the center so it partially melts onto the pasta. Garnish with basil leaves arranged like little bouquets and sprinkle pine nuts over the top like edible confetti. For an elegant touch, add a thin lemon twist or a wedge on the side.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Because of the fresh burrata, it’s best to add the cheese just before serving leftovers rather than storing it mixed in.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh because burrata’s creamy texture can change when frozen. However, you can freeze the cooked chicken and tomatoes separately for up to a month. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the chicken and roasted tomato mixture gently in a skillet. In a separate pot, briefly warm the pasta with a splash of water or a bit of butter to revive the sauce. Toss together and add fresh burrata and basil before serving to restore the dish’s signature lusciousness.

FAQs

Can I use regular lemons instead of Meyer lemons?

Absolutely! Regular lemons work well, though Meyer lemons provide a sweeter and less acidic flavor that beautifully complements the butter and garlic.

What can I substitute for burrata if I can’t find it?

Fresh mozzarella or creamy ricotta are great alternatives, though burrata offers a uniquely creamy center that is hard to beat.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are fine and often juicier, but make sure to adjust cooking time accordingly since thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

Is this dish spicy because of the smoked paprika?

Not at all. Smoked paprika adds warmth and a subtle smoky note without heat. If you want some spice, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Can I prepare this recipe for a larger crowd?

Definitely! Just scale the ingredients up proportionally and use larger pans or cook in batches to maintain even cooking and flavor distribution.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata and Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe is one of those dishes that feels effortless to make yet impresses every time. It’s comfort food elevated by fresh, bright ingredients and that irresistible creamy burrata finish. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this meal is sure to become a fast favorite in your recipe collection. Go ahead, give it a try, and savor every delicious bite!