Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe

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Plated creamy lemon chicken pasta garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, with a rustic wooden table, fresh lemons, and a glass of white wine in the background

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Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting yet refreshing dish, Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta is the perfect choice. With a rich, creamy sauce complemented by the bright, zesty flavor of lemon, this dish is an ideal combination of creamy comfort and fresh tanginess. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions.Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe

This recipe will guide you step-by-step on how to make this delicious pasta with creamy lemon sauce and tender chicken. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the method for creating this flavorful dish.

Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe

Ingredients:

  1. 2 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
    Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they cook quickly and provide a lean protein. Alternatively, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier result.
  2. 8 oz Pasta
    Fettuccine or spaghetti works best for creamy pasta dishes, but feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer.
  3. 1 Cup Heavy Cream
    Heavy cream gives the sauce its rich and smooth texture. You can substitute with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version, but the sauce will be thinner.
  4. 1/2 Cup Chicken Broth
    Chicken broth adds flavor and helps to balance the richness of the cream.
  5. 2 Lemons
    Use both the zest and juice from fresh lemons to give the sauce a refreshing citrusy kick.
  6. 3 Garlic Cloves (minced)
    Garlic adds an aromatic depth to the sauce, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
  7. 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
    Olive oil is used to cook the chicken and gives a nice flavor base to the sauce.
  8. 2 Tablespoons Butter
    Butter adds richness to the sauce, making it smooth and velvety.
  9. 1/2 Cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
    Parmesan cheese adds flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
  10. Salt & Pepper
    These are used to season the chicken and the sauce to taste.
  11. Fresh Parsley (for garnish)
    Fresh parsley is used as a garnish, adding a pop of color and a hint of freshness.

Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

  1. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder for extra flavor.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet.
  3. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest for a few minutes before slicing into thin strips.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions (usually around 8-10 minutes for fettuccine).
  3. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later use to adjust the sauce consistency.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Lemon Sauce

  1. In the same skillet used to cook the chicken, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer, scraping any brown bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
  4. Add the heavy cream and lemon zest to the skillet. Let it simmer for 5-6 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

  1. Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
  2. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss the pasta gently to coat it in the sauce.
  3. Stir in the lemon juice and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue mixing until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth.
  4. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Divide the creamy lemon chicken pasta into individual plates.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
  3. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious, creamy dish!

Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe

Tips & Notes:

  • Chicken Alternatives: You can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful result.
  • Pasta Types: While fettuccine works best, you can also use spaghetti, penne, or any other pasta shape you prefer.
  • Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian option, you can replace the chicken with sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms.
  • Adjusting Lemon Flavor: Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon juice depending on how tangy you want the sauce. Add more if you love a bright, zesty flavor.

Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I make the Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. When ready to serve, cook the pasta and simply reheat the sauce. Combine everything just before serving.

2. Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or milk as a lighter substitute, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy.

3. How long will leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce, and heat gently on the stovetop.

Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe

Conclusion

This Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta is a perfect combination of tangy lemon and creamy sauce, offering a delicious and comforting dish that is easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. The balance of fresh lemon and rich cream, along with the tenderness of the chicken, makes every bite a delight. Try this recipe today and enjoy a flavorful, quick meal!

www.kamikarecipes.com

Welcome to the world of delicious recipes! We’re excited to share with you this mouthwatering Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta recipe. 🍝🍋 With a creamy sauce and refreshing lemon flavor, this dish is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. Try it out now and share your thoughts with us in the comments or on social media! Don’t forget to pin this recipe on Pinterest or share it on Facebook so you can enjoy it again in the future. 💬

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Plated creamy lemon chicken pasta garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, with a rustic wooden table, fresh lemons, and a glass of white wine in the background

Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting yet refreshing dish, Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta is the perfect choice. With a rich, creamy sauce complemented by the bright, zesty flavor of lemon, this dish is an ideal combination of creamy comfort and fresh tanginess. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
  • 8 oz Pasta
  • 1 Cup Heavy Cream
  • 1/2 Cup Chicken Broth
  • 2 Lemons
  • 3 Garlic Cloves (minced)
  • 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
  • 2 Tablespoons Butter
  • 1/2 Cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
  • Salt & Pepper
  • Fresh Parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder for extra flavor.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest for a few minutes before slicing into thin strips.
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions (usually around 8-10 minutes for fettuccine). Once the pasta is cooked, drain it, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later use to adjust the sauce consistency.
  4. In the same skillet used to cook the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer, scraping any brown bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Add the heavy cream and lemon zest to the skillet. Let it simmer for 5-6 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
  5. Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss the pasta gently to coat it in the sauce. Stir in the lemon juice and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue mixing until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
  6. Divide the creamy lemon chicken pasta into individual plates. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious, creamy dish!

Notes

You can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier result. Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon juice depending on how tangy you want the sauce.

  • Author: kamika
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 portion
  • Calories: 600
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 36g
  • Saturated Fat: 18g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: chicken, pasta, lemon, creamy sauce, comfort food

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