Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta
A creamy and zesty pasta dish featuring tender chicken in a garlic parmesan sauce, perfect for any dinner occasion.
Equipment
- 1 large skillet
- 1 pot for boiling pasta
- 1 whisk
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz fettuccine or linguine
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 lemon zested and juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins
- 1 cup baby spinach
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and let rest before slicing.
- While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet used for the chicken, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and thickened. Add lemon juice to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
Combine and Serve
- Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. If using, add optional vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. Allow everything to heat through.
- Transfer the creamy lemon chicken pasta to serving plates. Garnish with additional parmesan and lemon zest if desired. Serve immediately.
Storage
- Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.
Notes
Pro Tips: Use fresh ingredients for the best taste. Adjust lemon juice to your preference.
Ingredient Substitutions: Try using shrimp or even tofu for a different protein.
How to Serve: Pair with a side salad or crusty bread.
Storage & Freshness: Store in airtight containers to maintain freshness.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the sauce in advance and store in the fridge.
Ingredient Substitutions: Try using shrimp or even tofu for a different protein.
How to Serve: Pair with a side salad or crusty bread.
Storage & Freshness: Store in airtight containers to maintain freshness.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the sauce in advance and store in the fridge.