Lemon Chicken Pasta: Zesty, Easy & Flavorful 🍋🍝✨
1. Introduction
Welcome to your new favorite zesty lemon chicken pasta recipe! Perfect for those busy weeknights or when you crave a quick chicken pasta dinner that does not compromise on flavor. Combining the tangy freshness of lemon with tender chicken and al dente pasta, this easy flavorful pasta dish brings a burst of sunshine to your table. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for a satisfying yet healthy-easy-broccoli-pasta substitute or a special treat.
2. Ingredients Needed for Lemon Chicken Pasta
- 12 oz (340 g) of your favorite pasta (penne, spaghetti, or linguine)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a dairy-free option
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Parmesan cheese, grated (optional, for serving)
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Zesty Lemon Chicken Pasta
**Step 1: Cook the Pasta**
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.
**Step 2: Prepare the Chicken**
While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, and zest from the lemon. Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
**Step 3: Make the Lemon Sauce**
In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add lemon juice, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir well and bring to a simmer. If the sauce seems too thick, add some reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
**Step 4: Combine and Serve**
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat with the lemon sauce. Add the cooked pasta and toss until everything is well combined. Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan if desired. For an extra burst of flavor, you can sprinkle additional lemon zest on top. For more inspiring chicken recipes, check out our collection of chicken dishes.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Lemon Chicken Pasta
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to revive the creamy sauce. This creamy dreamy tortellini can be easily customized for leftovers and makes for fantastic next-day lunches.
5. Serving Suggestions for Lemon Chicken Pasta
This zesty lemon chicken pasta pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad and crusty bread to round out your meal. For a complete, healthy dinner, try adding side dishes like our healthy easy broccoli pasta or some roasted vegetables. Additionally, topping your pasta with toasted pine nuts or sliced olives can enhance the flavor profile.
6. Frequently Asked Questions about Zesty Lemon Chicken Pasta
What makes this lemon chicken pasta recipe so flavorful?
The combination of fresh lemon zest and juice, garlic, and creamy sauce creates a vibrant, zesty flavor that elevates the classic chicken pasta dish. The balanced acidity with richness from the cream ensures a delightful taste experience.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Swap out heavy cream for coconut cream or cashew-based cream alternatives. The lemon flavor still shines through, providing a quick chicken pasta dinner that’s suitable for dairy-sensitive diets.
How do I prevent the pasta from drying out when reheating?
Adding a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water when reheating helps maintain the sauce’s creaminess and keeps the pasta moist. Gentle reheating on the stovetop is recommended for best results.
7. Additional Tips for the Perfect Lemon Chicken Pasta
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor.
- Cook the chicken thoroughly but avoid overcooking to ensure tenderness.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust the consistency of your sauce.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a handful of cherry tomatoes.
- Incorporate Parmesan cheese for a richer taste or to make it even more savory.
8. Related Recipes to Try
9. Conclusion
With its vibrant, zesty flavor profile and simple preparation, this lemon chicken pasta is truly a quick chicken pasta dinner favorite in any household. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions, this dish showcases how a few fresh ingredients can create a memorable meal. Whether you’re looking for something delicious and flavorful or aiming to impress guests, this easy flavorful pasta recipe delivers every time. Enjoy cooking and savor every bite of this sunshine-infused dish!
Print
Lemon Chicken Pasta: Zesty, Easy & Flavorful
Discover the delightful Lemon Chicken Pasta: Zesty, Easy & Flavorful. This vibrant and quick pasta recipe combines tender chicken, fresh lemon, and al dente pasta with creamy sauce for a delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Bright, flavorful, and easy to prepare in just 30 minutes, it’s the ultimate comfort food with a citrus twist.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) of your favorite pasta (penne, spaghetti, or linguine)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a dairy-free option
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Parmesan cheese, grated (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.
- While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add lemon juice, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir well and bring to a simmer. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Return cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat with the sauce. Add cooked pasta and toss until evenly coated. Garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan if desired. Sprinkle additional lemon zest for extra brightness.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for maximum flavor.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency as needed.
- Cook chicken thoroughly, but avoid overcooking to keep it tender.
- For extra spice, add red pepper flakes or cherry tomatoes.
- Top with toasted pine nuts or sliced olives for added aroma and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Dairy or Dairy-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1 1/4 cups)
- Calories: 480 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 60 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
