Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta

Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, zesty sauce for a delightful meal that’s both comforting and refreshing. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering a harmonious blend of flavors that will please any palate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules.
• Flavorful Combination: The tangy lemon, savory garlic, and creamy sauce create a delectable taste experience.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable with various pasta types or additional vegetables to suit your preferences.
• Family-Friendly: A dish that appeals to both adults and children alike.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenderloins, cut into bite-sized pieces.​
• Pasta: Linguini, fettuccine, or your preferred pasta variety.​Joyous Apron+1Allrecipes+1
• Butter: Unsalted, for sautéing and adding richness to the sauce.​
• Garlic: Fresh cloves, minced, for a robust flavor.​
• Lemon Juice and Zest: Freshly squeezed juice and zest for a bright, citrusy note.​Simply Recipes
• Heavy Cream: Provides the creamy base for the sauce.​
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated, to enhance the sauce’s depth.​
• Salt and Pepper: To season the dish to taste.​
• Parsley: Fresh, chopped, for garnish (optional).​

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.​Laura Fuentes
2. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.​
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add the lemon juice and zest, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.​
4. Combine: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat with the sauce. Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until well combined and heated through.​
5. Serve: Divide the pasta among serving plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately.​

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 3 servings.​
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes​No Spoon Necessary+10Joyous Apron+10Allrecipes+10
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes​Laura Fuentes+1Salt & Lavender+1
• Total Time: 30 minutes​Salt & Lavender

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate spinach, asparagus, or peas for added nutrition and color.​
• Use Different Proteins: Substitute chicken with shrimp or scallops for a seafood twist.​
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick.​Cooking with Cassandra
• Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh basil or thyme to enhance the herbal notes.​

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.​Salt & Lavender+2Desert Island Dishes+2Tasting With Tina+2
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if necessary. Avoid overheating to prevent the sauce from separating.​Natasha’s Kitchen+1Salt & Lavender+1
• Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze this dish, as the creamy sauce may not maintain its consistency upon thawing.​

FAQs

How can I prevent the sauce from curdling?

To prevent curdling, ensure the heavy cream is at room temperature before adding it to the skillet, and avoid boiling the sauce after adding the lemon juice.​

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

While heavy cream provides a richer sauce, you can use whole milk or half-and-half for a lighter version. However, the sauce may be thinner.​

What type of pasta works best with this recipe?

Long, twirlable noodles like linguini or fettuccine are ideal, but you can use any pasta you prefer.​Dishing Out Health

Is it necessary to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly into the sauce, enhancing its creamy texture. Pre-grated cheese may result in a grainier sauce.​

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is no longer pink in the center.​

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.​

What can I serve alongside this pasta?

A simple green salad or garlic bread complements this dish well.​Pumpkin ‘N Spice

How can I add more lemon flavor?

Increase the amount of lemon zest or add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving.​Pumpkin ‘N Spice+1Natasha’s Kitchen+1

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the components separately and combine them just before serving.​

How do I reheat leftovers without the sauce separating?

Reheat gently over low heat, stirring frequently, and add a splash of milk or cream to help emulsify the sauce.​Natasha’s Kitchen

Conclusion

Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that balances rich, creamy flavors with the bright zest of lemon and the savory depth

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