Description
Whip up this zesty lemon chicken pasta tonight! With tender chicken, fresh lemon, and hearty pasta, it’s a quick, flavor-packed meal your family will love. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is as simple as it is delicious. Pair with a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a stress-free way to bring bold flavors to your table. Save this recipe for your next dinner idea!
Ingredients
- boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- pasta of your choice (fettuccine or penne work nicely)
- fresh lemons
- garlic cloves
- fresh parsley
- olive oil
- chicken broth
- heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a grand boil. Once it bubbles joyfully, add your pasta. Stir gently and let it cook according to the package instructions until it is al dente. This pasta will be the perfect base for absorbing all the zesty flavors from the lemon and chicken. When cooked, drain the pasta in a colander, but set aside a cup of that starchy water for later magic.
While the pasta is cooking, take your chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This little detail ensures a beautiful sear. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, add the chicken. Let it sizzle and brown beautifully for about 5-7 minutes on each side, ensuring it’s cooked through. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making all your taste buds tingle in anticipation.
Once your chicken is perfectly golden, it’s time to create that luscious lemon sauce. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. In the same skillet, throw in minced garlic, allowing it to sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Then, squeeze in the juice of fresh lemons and add some chicken broth, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom. This adds depth and character to your sauce. Let it simmer for a few moments until it reduces and thickens slightly.
Now, it’s time to bring it all together! Slice the previously cooked chicken into tempting pieces and return them to the skillet. Toss in the drained pasta, and let it dance around in the beautiful lemon sauce. If it seems too thick, add a splash of that reserved pasta water until it reaches a delightful consistency. Finally, sprinkle in fresh herbs, whether basil or parsley, for an extra pop of freshness.
Once everything is beautifully combined, serve your lemon chicken pasta in generous bowls. A final sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top can elevate the dish to a new level of decadence. Gather your family or friends around the table, savor the moment, and enjoy the delightful flavors of your homemade creation!
Notes
Pairing Suggestions
This lemon chicken pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. A side of garlic bread can also complement the meal beautifully, making it a feast everyone will appreciate.
Storage Tips
Leftovers? No problem! Store any remaining pasta in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about three days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of olive oil to maintain its delicious quality.
Cooking Variations
Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the mix! Spinach, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes can provide even more flavor and nutrition. Customize your recipe by experimenting with different herbs, such as dill or thyme, to discover unique tastes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Keywords: Chicken