Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe
Introduction
This Lemon Chicken Pasta is a bright and creamy dish that combines tender chicken with zesty lemon and smooth cream. It’s a quick, satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or a casual dinner with friends.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 ounces pasta (such as fettuccine or penne)
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove chicken and let rest, then slice thinly.
- Step 3: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir and simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Step 4: Return the sliced chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the lemon cream sauce.
- Step 5: Combine the pasta with the lemon chicken sauce, mixing well to ensure the pasta is fully coated.
- Step 6: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips & Variations
- Use gluten-free pasta if you want a gluten-free version.
- Add a handful of spinach or arugula for extra greens and color.
- For more tang, add a splash of white wine to the sauce before adding the cream.
- Swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter sauce, though it will be less rich.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness and flavor. Cook them a bit longer until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
You can make the lemon cream sauce ahead, but it’s best to combine it with freshly cooked pasta and chicken to maintain the best texture and flavor.
PrintLemon Chicken Pasta Recipe
A bright and creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta that’s quick to prepare, featuring tender chicken pieces and al dente pasta tossed in a tangy lemon cream sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
Chicken & Pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 ounces (about 225g) pasta (penne or fettuccine recommended)
Lemon Cream Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper while cooking.
- Prepare the Lemon Cream Sauce: Add minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Reduce heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the lemon chicken cream sauce. Toss gently to combine and coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Use fresh lemons for the best vibrant flavor.
- Feel free to add grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, though the sauce may be less thick.
- To make it gluten-free, swap regular pasta with gluten-free pasta.
- Adding steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli pairs well with this dish.
Keywords: lemon chicken pasta, creamy lemon pasta, easy chicken pasta, quick pasta dinner, lemon cream sauce
