Lemon Chicken Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon Chicken Pasta is a bright, zesty, and creamy dish that brings together tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a refreshing lemon sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, this pasta balances savory flavors with a citrusy twist, making it a crowd-pleasing favorite.

ingredients

this Recipe

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

chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
salt and pepper
olive oil
garlic (minced)
pasta (linguine or spaghetti works best)
lemon juice
lemon zest
heavy cream
Parmesan cheese (grated)
chicken broth
butter
fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

directions

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove and slice into strips.

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant.

Deglaze the pan with chicken broth and add lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Add grated Parmesan and stir until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.

Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining.

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce along with sliced chicken. Toss to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water.

Finish with a pat of butter and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use grilled chicken for a smoky flavor.
Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and nutrients.
Swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Try it with shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works great—just add it when combining with the sauce.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Use coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan version.

What type of pasta works best?
Linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti are ideal, but penne or bowtie pasta also work.

Is the lemon flavor overpowering?
No, it’s balanced with cream and Parmesan for a smooth, tangy finish.

Can I freeze Lemon Chicken Pasta?
Freezing is not recommended due to the dairy in the sauce, which may separate.

Conclusion

Lemon Chicken Pasta is a deliciously simple dish that brings a burst of citrus to your dinner table. Creamy, comforting, and full of flavor, it’s an easy go-to that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Give it a try and enjoy a perfect blend of zesty and savory in every bite.

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