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Lemon Chicken Pasta
40min
Total Time
4 people
Servings
Medium
Difficulty
Moderate
Cost
550 kcal
Calories
Lemon Chicken Pasta is a zesty delight that combines tender chicken with vibrant flavors, making it a perfect weeknight meal!
Ingredients
4
- 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (juice and zest)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2
While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Remove from skillet and let rest.
4
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
5
Add lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
6
Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add grated Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and smooth.
7
Slice the chicken and add it back to the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until well coated.
8
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
Kitchen Tools
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Skillet
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Pro Tips
Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
Cook pasta just until al dente for the best texture in the dish.
Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition.
Troubleshooting
If the sauce is too thick, add more chicken broth.
If the sauce is too thin, simmer longer to reduce.
Recipe Variations
Add capers for a briny taste.
Substitute chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist.
Healthy Alternatives
Use whole grain pasta for added fiber.
Substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a fresh green salad.
Serve with garlic bread for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
550
Calories
35g
Protein
65g
Carbs
20g
Fat
3g
Fiber
2g
Sugar
600mg
Sodium
85mg
Cholesterol
Dietary Info
High-protein
Garnish Ideas
Lemon slices
Additional grated Parmesan cheese
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth.
Leftover Ideas
Mix with salad greens for a refreshing lunch.
Make a pasta bake by adding cheese and tossing it in the oven.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking the chicken can make it dry.
Not salting the water for pasta can lead to bland pasta.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, any pasta shape will work well in this recipe.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of heavy cream and Parmesan.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge and reheats beautifully.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, adding broccoli or asparagus would be delicious.
What can I substitute for chicken?
You can use tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Reviews
Emma
Apr 26, 2026
Absolutely loved this recipe! The lemon flavor is refreshing.
Olivia
Apr 23, 2026
Really tasty and easy to make!
Ava
May 4, 2026
A perfect quick dinner option for busy nights.
Sophia
Apr 25, 2026
It was good, but I felt it needed more seasoning.
Isabella
Apr 22, 2026
Will definitely make again! My family loved it.
Mia
Apr 22, 2026
So flavorful! The sauce was a hit.
Amelia
Apr 28, 2026
Quick and tasty. Perfect for weeknights.
Harper
May 2, 2026
A new family favorite! Easy to customize.
Evelyn
Apr 27, 2026
I liked it, but I think I'll try adding more veggies next time.
Abigail
May 5, 2026
The lemon really brightens up the dish!
Ella
Apr 16, 2026
A delicious dish that's now part of my regular rotation.
Scarlett
Apr 25, 2026
Good balance of flavors, would recommend.
Grace
May 5, 2026
So simple yet so good! Loved it.
Chloe
Apr 17, 2026
Great for a quick meal, got my kids to eat it!
Sophie
Apr 25, 2026
I enjoyed it; the lemon added a lovely twist.
Luna
Apr 15, 2026
Fantastic recipe! I will definitely make it again.
