If you are craving a dish that perfectly balances zingy freshness with comforting creaminess, this Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Packed with tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious lemon-cream sauce brightened by fresh herbs and Parmesan, this recipe transforms simple, everyday ingredients into a delightful feast that feels both indulgent and vibrant. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a casual get-together, this Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe will quickly become a favorite you reach for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each playing a crucial role in making your Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe shine. From the brightness of the fresh lemon juice to the richness of the cream and the savory goodness of Parmesan, every component contributes to the taste, texture, and color of this dish.
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine): Choose your favorite shape for perfect sauce clinging and texture contrast.
- Salt, for boiling water: Essential for seasoning the pasta to bring out its natural flavor.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness and helps brown the chicken beautifully.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: Tender, juicy protein that soaks up the sauce perfectly.
- ½ tsp salt: To season the chicken and balance the flavors.
- ¼ tsp black pepper: Adds a mild kick and brightens the overall dish.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with savory warmth and aromatic depth.
- ½ cup chicken broth: Provides a flavorful base for the sauce, adding moisture and umami.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and rich without overpowering the lemon notes.
- 1 tbsp lemon zest: Brings concentrated lemon oils and aroma, enhancing freshness.
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice: Offers tangy brightness that cuts through the creaminess.
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water (if needed): Helps loosen the sauce and keeps it silky when mixing with pasta.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: For a burst of color and herbaceous freshness in the final dish.
- Extra Parmesan cheese: Perfect for sprinkling on top to finish with a cheesy pop.
How to Make Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Perfectly
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil— this is key for well-seasoned pasta that’s cooked just right. Boil your choice of spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine until al dente, which means it still has a slight bite for the best texture. Don’t forget to reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining, as it will be essential for adjusting sauce consistency later.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat while seasoning bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally until each piece is golden brown and cooked through. This step creates that irresistible caramelized crust and locks in juicy flavors. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside to keep warm.
Step 3: Build the Lush Sauce
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant, making sure not to burn it. Pour in chicken broth and let it simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to slightly reduce and concentrate the flavor. Then stir in heavy cream, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice, simmering for another 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens just enough to coat your pasta beautifully.
Step 4: Bring Everything Together
Return the cooked chicken and your drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything thoroughly, adding the reserved pasta water bit by bit if you desire a creamier, silkier sauce consistency. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and infuse the sauce with its unmistakable savory depth.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish your Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe by garnishing generously with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. These final touches add vibrant green color and an extra layer of cheesy goodness that makes this dish feel extra special right before you serve.
How to Serve Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is your go-to herb for adding brightness and a pop of color. Sprinkle with additional Parmesan for that irresistible savory finish. You might also drizzle a little olive oil or add thin lemon slices for a restaurant-style presentation that’s inviting and vibrant.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs beautifully with a crunchy green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to contrast the richness of the sauce. Garlic bread or a warm crusty baguette also make perfect companions, great for mopping up every last bit of that luscious lemon sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe family-style in a large bowl for casual dinners, or plate it individually with a sprinkle of microgreens and edible flowers for a stunning dinner party look. Layering the pasta with extra lemon zest on top can create an eye-catching burst of color and aroma that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Lemon Chicken Pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This recipe reheats well while retaining most of its sauce creaminess and flavor, making it a fantastic next-day meal.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the cream sauce may slightly separate upon thawing, but a good stir during reheating usually brings it back together beautifully.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream if needed to loosen the sauce. Microwave reheating is fine too, but be sure to stir every 30 seconds to avoid uneven warming and maintain that creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of chicken cuts?
Yes! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for quick cooking, thighs can add extra juiciness and flavor if you prefer. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.
What pasta shape works best with this Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe?
Spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine all work beautifully. Choose based on your preference for how the sauce clings to the noodles and the bite you enjoy.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a cashew-based cream, and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can cook the chicken and pasta ahead, but it’s best to combine and finish the sauce just before serving for the freshest taste and texture.
How can I make the sauce thicker or thinner?
To thicken, simmer the sauce a bit longer or add more Parmesan. For a thinner sauce, add reserved pasta water slowly while tossing the pasta until your desired consistency is reached.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe is a true winner for anyone looking to brighten up their weeknight meals with something fresh, creamy, and utterly satisfying. It’s simple enough for busy cooks but special enough to impress family and friends. Grab those ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this deliciously zesty pasta dish — you’re going to love every bite!
Print
Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A creamy and tangy Lemon Chicken Pasta that combines tender chicken, zesty lemon, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce tossed with al dente pasta for a quick and delicious weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine)
- Salt, for boiling water
Chicken and Sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water (if needed)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Boil Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil to prepare for cooking the pasta.
- Cook Pasta: Add pasta to boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, ensuring the pasta is perfectly tender yet firm.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining, reserve ½ cup pasta water to use later for adjusting sauce consistency, then drain and set the pasta aside.
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat to prepare for cooking the chicken.
- Season Chicken: Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and black pepper evenly.
- Cook Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden brown and cooked through.
- Set Aside Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside while you make the sauce.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, enhancing the flavor of the sauce base.
- Add Chicken Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly, intensifying the broth’s flavor.
- Add Cream and Lemon: Stir in heavy cream, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice, then simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Combine Pasta and Chicken: Return cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet, preparing to integrate them with the sauce.
- Toss Together: Toss everything together well, adding reserved pasta water if needed to achieve a creamier, smooth consistency.
- Incorporate Parmesan: Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and cook for 1-2 more minutes until the cheese melts and everything is well combined.
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese over the pasta for a bright finish.
- Serve: Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your flavorful lemon chicken pasta!
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and melt consistency.
- If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Adjust lemon juice based on your preferred level of tanginess.
- Chicken thighs can be substituted for chicken breasts if preferred for a juicier texture.
- Fresh parsley adds a bright color and fresh flavor, but basil or chives can be used as alternatives.
