This Lemon Chicken Pasta is bright and zesty, making it a perfect choice for dinner. It’s made with tender chicken, fresh lemon juice, and pasta, all tossed together for a tasty meal.
What I love most is how quickly it comes together! After a long day, it’s great to whip up something so fresh and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Fettuccine gives this dish a nice texture, but you can use penne, linguine, or even spaghetti. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta are great alternatives too.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless breasts are easy to cook and slice. If you’re looking for a substitute, you could use thighs for more flavor or even shrimp for a lighter version. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly!
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce. If you’re watching your calories, consider using half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative, like coconut cream for a unique twist.
Lemon: Fresh lemon is key for that zesty flavor. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, but fresh is always best for taste.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a salty and nutty flavor. If you’re out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a vegan option) can be lovely substitutes.
How Do I Cook the Chicken Perfectly?
Cooking the chicken right can make a big difference in your dish. Here’s my simple method for juicy chicken:
- Make sure to season the chicken generously with salt and pepper.
- Use medium-high heat to get a good sear. This helps lock in the juices.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side. Don’t flip it too soon, let it develop a nice golden crust!
- Let the chicken rest after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, so it stays moist when you slice it.
How to Make Lemon Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes in total. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes on preparation and another 10 minutes on cooking, making it a quick and easy meal perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, add the fettuccine pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. After it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Prepare and Cook the Chicken:
While your pasta is cooking, take your chicken breasts and season them with salt and pepper on both sides. Then, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
3. Make the Creamy Lemon Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Let it melt, and then add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute, until it becomes fragrant. Next, stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Allow this mixture to simmer for 3-4 minutes, or until it starts to thicken up a bit.
4. Combine Everything:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until it melts and the sauce is smooth. Then, add the cooked fettuccine pasta to the skillet and toss everything together, so the pasta is well coated in that delicious lemon cream sauce.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the pasta and top it with the sliced chicken. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a few lemon slices for garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy your delightful Lemon Chicken Pasta!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional for this dish, you can substitute it with any pasta you prefer, such as penne, linguine, or even gluten-free options. Just keep an eye on the cooking time to ensure it’s al dente.
Can I Prep the Dish Ahead of Time?
You can prep a few components ahead of time! Cook the pasta and store it separately in the fridge. You can also bake or pan-sear the chicken and slice it to reheat later. Just make the sauce fresh to keep the flavors vibrant!
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. If the sauce seems thickened, a splash of chicken broth or a bit of cream can help bring it back to life.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Simply replace the chicken with grilled or sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. You could also use chickpeas for added protein, and the rest of the recipe remains the same!
