Zesty Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe for Quick Dinner Delight

This lemon chicken pasta is a delightful blend of zesty flavors, tender chicken, and comforting pasta that dances on your taste buds. Picture this: the aroma of garlic wafting through your kitchen while lemon zest adds a bright spark to the air, making your mouth water in anticipation. creamy Alfredo pasta dishes

Every time I whip up this dish, it transports me back to family dinners where laughter mingled with delicious food. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight or a gathering with friends, this recipe brings people together for unforgettable moments filled with flavor and joy.

I remember the first time I made this lemon chicken pasta; my friends couldn’t stop raving about it! For more inspiration, check out this Cajun Chicken Pasta recipe.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Tender and juicy, these are perfect for soaking up all the flavors.

• Pasta of Your Choice: I prefer linguine because it hugs the sauce beautifully, but any pasta will do.

• Fresh Garlic: Use at least three cloves for that aromatic kick that complements the chicken perfectly.

• Lemon Zest and Juice: The zest adds brightness while the juice gives a tangy punch that makes everything pop.

• Heavy Cream: For that luscious, velvety sauce that ties all the flavors together.

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese elevates the dish with its rich umami flavor. fresh vegetable platter ideas.

• Olive Oil: A splash of high-quality olive oil enhances all those delightful flavors.

• Spinach (optional): Toss in some fresh spinach for an extra burst of color and nutrients.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients on the countertop. Chop your chicken into bite-sized pieces and mince the garlic. This will keep things moving smoothly while you cook.

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Sauté Chicken and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Toss in minced garlic and stir until fragrant.

Add Lemon Flavor: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cooked chicken along with zest. Let it simmer for another minute or two so those bright notes infuse into everything.

Create Creamy Sauce: Pour in heavy cream while stirring continuously to combine everything well. Let it bubble gently until thickened slightly—about 3-5 minutes should do it.

Toss in Pasta and Spinach (if using): Add cooked pasta directly into the sauce mixture. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in fresh spinach for color and nutrition! Stir well until everything is coated beautifully.

Serve immediately with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired! unique cheese spreads.

Enjoy every glorious bite of your homemade lemon chicken pasta!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken to lock in flavor, then cook the pasta while preparing the luscious lemon sauce. This flow not only saves time but ensures everything finishes perfectly together.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap the chicken for shrimp or add veggies like spinach or asparagus for extra color and nutrition. Experiment with different herbs to create your unique flavor profile.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Lemon Chicken Pasta in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist and flavorful. delicious chicken and waffles.

It was a sunny Sunday when I first made this Lemon Chicken Pasta for my family. Their smiles after tasting it were priceless, and now it’s a staple at our gatherings.

FAQ

What can I substitute for chicken in this recipe? You can use shrimp, tofu, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

How do I make the sauce creamier? Add a splash of heavy cream or Greek yogurt while mixing the sauce.

Can I freeze Lemon Chicken Pasta? It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers for up to two months.

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Lemon Chicken Pasta

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• Author: Remy Berengar
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Lemon Chicken Pasta is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines juicy chicken, zesty lemon, and al dente pasta in a creamy sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, providing both comfort and elegance in every bite. With the bright aroma of garlic and lemon filling your kitchen, this delightful meal promises to impress family and friends while delivering unforgettable moments.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 oz linguine pasta (or pasta of your choice)
• 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)

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Instructions

1. Chop chicken into bite-sized pieces and mince garlic.
2. Boil a large pot of salted water. Add pasta and cook until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken; cook until golden brown (5-7 minutes). Stir in minced garlic until fragrant.
4. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken with zest; simmer for 1-2 minutes.
5. Stir in heavy cream; let it bubble gently until slightly thickened (3-5 minutes).
6. Add cooked pasta to the sauce mixture. If using spinach, stir it in now. Ensure everything is well coated.
7. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 120mg