Let’s talk comfort food. What is comfort food? Without being too heavy. Think of it as the sunny cousin of a creamy carbonara, but with an exciting kick of lemon that’ll wake you up. How can I increase my taste buds? My Lemon Chicken Pasta is one of those meals that my family begs for, rain or shine. It’s got everything: a What are some of the best ingredients in a lemon sauce? Straight out of the pan. What are some of the best dishes to make?
What is lemon chicken pasta?
Imagine this: al dente pasta, tossed in a creamy, lemony sauce with juicy pieces of chicken. What is sunshine in a bowl? The base of the sauce is usually cream and chicken broth, enriched with Parmesan cheese and, of course, parsley. What are some good ways to use fresh lemon juice? I love lemon and it’s the perfect balance of rich and bright, and the lemon really elevates this dish. Is it a simple concept, really? I’ve been making variations of this Lemon Chicken Pasta for years, and this particular recipe is my favorite. What is your go- This recipe isn’t just food it’s a hug in the bowl.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Seriously, where do I even begin? The flavor is the obvious winner. The bright lemon perfectly complements the richness of the cream and cheese, and the chicken adds a satisfying protein punch. What I love most about this Lemon Chicken Pasta is that it’s deceptively simple. It’s one of those dishes that looks like you spent hours slaving away in the kitchen, but it actually comes together in under 30 minutes. This makes it a total lifesaver on busy weeknights when I don’t have a lot of time but still want to put a delicious and wholesome meal on the table.
And let’s not forget the cost-effectiveness! Chicken Breasts are relatively inexpensive, and the other ingredients are pantry staples for me. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily swap out the chicken for shrimp or even leave it vegetarian by adding some roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. Honestly, this Lemon Chicken Pasta is a staple in our house because it ticks all the boxes: delicious, easy, affordable, and adaptable. It’s similar to other creamy pasta dishes, but I’ve found that the lemon zest and juice brighten up what can otherwise be a heavy meal, making it feel lighter and fresher. This recipe has never failed me!
How do you make lemon chicken pasta?
Quick Overview
Making Lemon Chicken Pasta is easier than you think! You’ll start by cooking your pasta and sautéing the chicken. Then, you’ll whip up the creamy lemon sauce, toss everything together, and serve. The whole process is quick, straightforward, and yields a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. Seriously, once you make this once, you’ll be hooked. This recipe is my secret weapon against the weeknight dinner slump.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces. I like to use organic, free-range chicken when possible for the best flavor.
1 tablespoon olive oil. Extra virgin olive oil gives it the best flavor but you can use canola if you prefer.
What is the best garlic powder?
1/2 teaspoon salt.
What is the best way to use fresh cracked Black Pepper?
For the Pasta:
1 lb pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti work best). I usually go for fettuccine because it holds the sauce beautifully.
8 cups water.
1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water).
What is the recipe for lemon sauce?
4 tablespoons butter. Unsalted so you can control the amount of salt in the dish.
2 cloves of garlic, minced. Freshly chopped is key here!
What is the Best Chicken broth to use?
1 cup heavy cream. Can you substitute half and half for a lighter version?
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Freshly Grated is essential for that nutty flavor.
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice. Freshly squeezed, of course! Is it true that lemon juice has no zing?
What are some good ways to add lemon zest to a recipe?
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick). I always add this, but feel free to skip if you’re not a fan of spice.
Salt and pepper to taste.
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. What is the best way to drain pasta water? This starchy water is liquid gold and will help the sauce cling to the pasta.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with garlic powder, salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even browning. Who wants rubbery chicken?
Step 3: Make the Lemon Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Remove from heat and set aside. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. How do you burn garlic?
Step 4: Add Broth and Cream
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 5: Stir in Cheese and Lemon
Stir in the Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, and Red Pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. I always start with a little salt and pepper and then adjust to my liking.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the lemon sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. This is where that pasta water comes in handy!
Step 7: Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. I love to serve lemon wedges and Parmesan cheese on top.
What should I serve it with?
Lemon Chicken Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with any side dish. What is my favorite side salad with a light vinaigrette? The acidity of the vinaigrette complements the richness of pasta perfectly.
For a lighter meal: Serve with a big green salad with a lemon vinaigrette. It cuts through the richness of the pasta and adds a refreshing element. For the salad, I like using arugula, baby spinach, and some sliced cucumbers and tomatoes. A simple lemon vinaigrette consisting of olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper is all you need.
For a Heartier Meal:Add some crusty bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce. I recommend a loaf of sourdough bread or an Italian bread. Can you serve it with roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts? What are some good ways to roast onions with olive oil, salt and pepper? What a nice contrast to pasta.
Wine Pairing:What is the perfect pairing of Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio with lemon? The acidity of the wine complements the lemon in the sauce and enhances overall dining experience.
When I have guests over, I like to serve this Lemon Chicken Pasta with a side of garlic bread and a glass of chilled white wine. It’s always a hit! This is the perfect dish when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Lemon Chicken Pasta
Okay, friends, I’ve made this Lemon Chicken Pasta *a lot*, so I’ve learned a few tricks along the way that I want to share with you. These tips will help you take your Lemon Chicken Pasta to the next level!
Chicken Tips: To ensure juicy and tender chicken, don’t overcook it! Chicken Breast can dry out easily, so cook it just until it’s cooked through. Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure that your chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F. Also, pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking will help them cook more evenly.
Lemon Zest: Don’t skip the lemon zest! It adds a ton of lemon flavor and aroma to the dish. When zesting the lemon, make sure to only zest the yellow part of the peel and avoid the white pith underneath, as it can be bitter. A microplane zester is the best tool for the job.
Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to allow it to thicken. Remember, you can always adjust the sauce to your liking!
Cheese Choice: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese has a much better flavor and texture.
Spice Level: If you’re not a fan of spice, feel free to omit the Red Pepper flakes. If you want to add a little extra kick, you can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add some vegetables to the dish! Asparagus, broccoli, peas, or spinach are all great additions. Add them to the skillet along with the chicken or during the last few minutes of cooking time.
I also find that letting the sauce simmer a bit longer gives it a richer, more complex flavor. It allows the flavors to meld together and creates a truly unforgettable dish. Trust me on this one, it makes a huge difference!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Leftover Lemon Chicken Pasta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. The sauce may thicken slightly as it sits in the refrigerator, so you may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave the Lemon Chicken Pasta for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of chicken broth or water to thin it out.
Freezing: While you can freeze Lemon Chicken Pasta, I don’t recommend it. The sauce may separate and become grainy when thawed. However, if you do want to freeze it, make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Best Practices: For best results, consume the Lemon Chicken Pasta within 3-4 days of making it. The sooner you eat it, the better it will taste! If you’re planning on storing leftovers, it’s best to store the pasta and sauce separately to prevent the pasta from becoming soggy. Add the sauce to the pasta just before reheating.
One thing I always do is add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before reheating to brighten up the flavors again. It makes a huge difference!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Chicken Pasta is more than just a recipe; it’s a taste of home, a quick and easy solution for busy weeknights, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The bright, zesty flavors combined with the creamy sauce and tender chicken make it an irresistible dish that I know you’ll love just as much as my family does. If you’re looking for other quick and easy pasta recipes, be sure to check out my Creamy Tomato Pasta or my Garlic Shrimp Scampi. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how your Lemon Chicken Pasta turns out! Don’t forget to leave a comment and rating below, and share your own variations with me. I love seeing what you come up with!
Lemon Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Chicken breasts
- 8 oz Pasta
- 0.5 cup Lemon juice
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 0.25 cup Olive oil
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
- 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese grated
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Cook pasta according to package directions.
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Add garlic to skillet and cook for 1 minute. Stir in lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Add cooked pasta to skillet and toss to combine.
- Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese.
