If you’re searching for a bright and comforting dinner that feels special but comes together effortlessly, Lemon Chicken Pasta is your answer! This dish is the ultimate marriage of tangy lemon, juicy chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, all wrapped in a creamy, Parmesan-infused sauce. Each bite is packed with zesty flavor and a hint of heat, making it just as suitable for a relaxed weeknight as it is for impressing company. Get ready to fall in love with a meal you’ll want to make again and again!

Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s a delightful simplicity in the ingredient list for Lemon Chicken Pasta, but each one brings something distinct to the table. The savory chicken, punchy lemon, and rich cream make magic, while humble pantry staples round out the flavors and textures for a dish you’ll crave.

Pasta (8 ounces penne or spaghetti): The base of our dish, choose a shape that’ll soak up all that luscious sauce.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For sautéing the chicken and providing a glossy, flavorful start.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 pound, cut bite-sized): These cook up tender and soak in all the lemony marinade.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): The aromatic foundation that builds depth in every bite.
Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Adds a gentle herby note to balance the citrus.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Essential for pulling together all the flavors.
Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): A touch of warmth and sharpness.
Red pepper flakes (¼ teaspoon, optional): Use for a subtle—but not overpowering—pop of heat.
Lemon (zested and juiced): The star ingredient, delivering fresh, tangy flavor over every bite.
Chicken broth (½ cup): Rounds out the sauce, making it silky and savory.
Heavy cream (½ cup): Gives the sauce rich, velvety texture and a little indulgence.
Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Melts into the sauce for cheesy, salty goodness.
Fresh parsley, chopped (2 tablespoons, optional): For a pop of color and fresh herbal finish at the end.

How to Make Lemon Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Start by cooking your chosen pasta according to the package directions until perfectly al dente. Before draining, make sure to scoop out half a cup of the cooking water—this starchy liquid is key for adjusting your sauce later. Once drained, set the pasta aside and get ready to build flavor in the next pan.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Toss in the chicken pieces and sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and—if you like a gentle kick—red pepper flakes. Let the chicken cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally so each piece gets lovely and golden, and cooked all the way through.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Build the Sauce

Introduce the minced garlic to the skillet, stirring until fragrant, about a minute. Next, pour in all the lemon zest and juice, followed by chicken broth and heavy cream. Give everything a gentle stir and bring to a simmer. Allow your sauce to cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, until slightly thickened and perfectly aromatic.

Step 4: Toss Pasta and Finish with Cheese

Add the cooked pasta right into your skillet with the sauce and chicken. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan and toss well to coat each noodle. If your sauce needs a little loosening, gradually add a bit of that reserved pasta water until you get the perfect creamy consistency—all that’s left is to taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Serve and Savor

Your Lemon Chicken Pasta is ready to shine! Spoon into bowls while warm, and, if you like, scatter with fresh parsley and a flourish of extra Parmesan. Each bite will be bursting with brightness and a gentle, cozy richness.

How to Serve Lemon Chicken Pasta

Lemon Chicken Pasta Garnishes

A handful of fresh parsley brings brightness and color, pairing beautifully with the zesty sauce. For cheese lovers, a little extra grated Parmesan on top never goes amiss. Sometimes a light sprinkle of lemon zest right before serving will give you that extra pop of citrus aroma that makes this Lemon Chicken Pasta sing.

Side Dishes

This pasta is gorgeous all on its own, but you can amplify the meal with sides like a simple green salad tossed in vinaigrette, roasted asparagus, or a warm, crusty loaf of bread to soak up every drop of sauce. Even something as quick as garlic bread will make dinner feel extra cozy and complete.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, serve Lemon Chicken Pasta in a wide, shallow bowl with curled lemon slices along the edge and a generous shower of parsley. Turn it into a picnic favorite by packing it cold in individual jars—lemony flavors marry even more as it sits. Or, use pretty ramekins for personal portions and top with a crunchy parmesan-bread crumb crust, warmed under the broiler.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any Lemon Chicken Pasta leftovers to an airtight container and store in the fridge. It stays fresh and delicious for up to three days—the flavors only deepen as they mingle, making for an even more tempting lunch the next day!

Freezing

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh due to its creamy sauce, you can freeze it if needed. Place portions in freezer-safe containers, and for best texture, thaw overnight in the fridge. Just note that cream sauces can sometimes separate, but a good stir when reheating will help bring it back to life.

Reheating

Gently reheat Lemon Chicken Pasta on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or a drizzle of cream to loosen the sauce. If you prefer using a microwave, cover the portion and heat in short bursts, stirring frequently, so the chicken stays tender and the sauce stays creamy.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of chicken instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully and offer even more juiciness. Just be sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces and cook until golden and cooked through.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute half-and-half or even whole milk for a lighter version, though the sauce will be slightly less rich. For a dairy-free twist, try unsweetened coconut cream—it adds a new layer of flavor!

Can I add vegetables to this pasta?

Yes! Spinach, peas, asparagus, or even cherry tomatoes make wonderful additions. Simply stir them in with the sauce until tender and vibrant for an extra boost of color and nutrition.

Is Lemon Chicken Pasta good served cold?

Believe it or not, this dish is delicious cold, especially for a picnic or packed lunch. The flavors meld and intensify as it chills, giving you an irresistibly tangy, creamy pasta salad vibe.

What types of pasta work best in this recipe?

Penne and spaghetti are classic choices, but farfalle, fusilli, or linguine all hold onto the sauce beautifully. Go with your favorite or use what’s in your pantry—it’s hard to go wrong!

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a meal that feels both refreshing and comforting, you can’t go wrong with Lemon Chicken Pasta. It’s full of sunshine, flavor, and easy sophistication, promising to become a regular star on your dinner table. Give it a try—you’ll be delighted by just how quickly it wins everyone over!

Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe

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4.8 from 29 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Lemon Chicken Pasta recipe is a delightful combination of tender chicken, tangy lemon, and creamy sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta:

8 ounces pasta (penne or spaghetti)

Chicken:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

Sauce:

3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 lemon (zested and juiced)
½ cup chicken broth
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken: Sauté chicken in olive oil with seasonings until cooked through.
Make the Sauce: Add garlic, lemon, broth, and cream to the skillet; simmer until thickened.
Combine: Add pasta and Parmesan to the skillet; toss to coat.
Serve: Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan.