Easy Lemon Chicken Pasta
A delightful combination of chicken, lemon, and pasta that makes for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Equipment
- 1 large skillet
- 1 large pot
- 1 tongs
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz pasta of choice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water and then drain the rest.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in lemon juice and chicken broth, bring to a simmer.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat. Slice the chicken and return to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired sauce consistency.
- Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Serving
- Serve the pasta in bowls, ensuring each serving gets a good mix of chicken and pasta. Top with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Storage
- Let the pasta cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, add a splash of water or chicken broth to a saucepan with the pasta. Heat over medium until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
Notes
Pro Tips: Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Prevent overcooking the chicken by checking its internal temperature. For a creamier texture, add ricotta cheese. Ingredient Substitutions: Use chicken thighs instead of breasts. How to Serve: Pair with a fresh salad or garlic bread. Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container in the fridge. Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the chicken and pasta in advance, then combine when ready to serve.