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Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe

4.6 from 106 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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