Air fryer lemon garlic butter chicken with creamy parmesan pasta is a rich, comforting meal that combines juicy, citrusy chicken with a smooth, cheesy pasta sauce. The air fryer cooks the chicken quickly, locking in moisture while creating lightly golden edges, while the pasta is coated in a velvety parmesan cream sauce.
The chicken is the star of the dish. A simple blend of lemon juice, garlic, butter, and seasoning infuses the meat with bright, savory flavor. As it cooks in the air fryer, the butter helps create a lightly crisp exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
The creamy parmesan pasta brings everything together. Heavy cream and parmesan melt into a smooth sauce that clings to each strand of pasta. Garlic adds depth, while a touch of black pepper balances the richness. The lemon from the chicken cuts through the creaminess, making the dish feel balanced instead of heavy.
This recipe is ideal for a restaurant-style dinner at home. It’s simple enough for weeknights but rich enough to serve for guests. The air fryer reduces cooking time while keeping cleanup minimal.
It’s also highly customizable—you can add spinach, mushrooms, or chili flakes depending on your taste. The result is a complete, satisfying meal with protein, carbs, and a creamy sauce in every bite.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- 250 g pasta (fettuccine or penne)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup pasta water (as needed)
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix melted butter, lemon juice, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and olive oil. Coat chicken and marinate for 15–20 minutes.
- Preheat air fryer to 180°C.
- Cook chicken in air fryer for 10 minutes, flip, then cook another 6–8 minutes until fully cooked (165°F / 75°C internal temp). Rest before slicing.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
- In a pan, melt butter and sauté garlic for 1 minute.
- Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Add pasta water if needed to thin sauce.
- Toss cooked pasta in the sauce until fully coated.
- Slice chicken and place on top of creamy pasta.
- Serve immediately.
Nutritional Facts (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Protein: 42 g
- Fat: 32 g
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Calcium: 280 mg
