Let me tell you, this Lemon Chicken Pasta is about to become your new weeknight superstar. It delivers everything you want in a comforting pasta dinner: juicy bites of golden chicken, tender noodles, and a silky lemon cream sauce that’s equal parts zesty and rich. Freshly squeezed lemon juice and just the right amount of Parmesan take it over the top, while a sprinkle of parsley makes the whole dish look as good as it tastes. You wind up with a meal that’s bright, satisfying, and wonderfully easy to pull together.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Lemon Chicken Pasta truly shines because of its balance of simple, high-impact ingredients. Every element adds something remarkable — from the juicy chicken to the vibrant lemon and creamy sauce, each one plays a crucial part in the delicious harmony of flavors and textures.
- Spaghetti or Linguine (12 ounces): The perfect noodles for holding onto every drop of the luscious sauce.
- Chicken Breasts (2, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces): Tender, juicy, and packed with protein, these make the dish satisfying and hearty.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): For browning the chicken and building a flavorful base.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic infuses the whole dish with savory depth.
- Chicken Broth (1 cup): Adds savory goodness and helps create a silky sauce.
- Heavy Cream (1/2 cup): For luxurious richness and smoothness in every bite.
- Lemon Juice (1/3 cup, freshly squeezed): Fresh citrus brightens the entire pasta beautifully.
- Lemon Zest (1 tablespoon): Intensifies the lemony aroma and flavor without overpowering.
- Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Salty, nutty, melty perfection woven right into the sauce.
- Unsalted Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds subtle richness and helps bring the sauce together.
- Red Pepper Flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): A little heat if you want to punch things up a notch.
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning every layer.
- Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): Brings a pop of color and a hit of freshness at the end.
- Lemon Slices (for garnish): Gorgeous finishing touch that signals bright, citrusy flavor.
How to Make Lemon Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a boil — the salt is important for building flavor from the very beginning. Cook your spaghetti or linguine until perfectly al dente, according to package directions. Before you drain it, scoop out about half a cup of the starchy cooking water for later. This little trick helps marry the noodles and sauce at the end. Drain and set the pasta aside until you’re ready for the magic.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
While the pasta’s boiling away, season your chicken pieces generously with salt and black pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, add the chicken in a single layer. Let it cook for 6 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate, but keep the pan ready — you want all those tasty browned bits for the next step.
Step 3: Build the Lemon Cream Sauce
With your skillet still on the heat, toss in the garlic and cook for just about a minute, stirring constantly so it turns fragrant but doesn’t burn. Next, pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, fresh lemon juice, and bright lemon zest. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the butter and grated Parmesan, whisking until you’ve got a dreamy, smooth sauce. If you love a little kick, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes now.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken — and every last flavorful drop of juice — to the skillet. Add the drained pasta on top. Using tongs, toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a splash at a time until the sauce clings silkily to every noodle. Taste, then season with a pinch more salt and pepper if needed.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle over the fresh chopped parsley for color and freshness. Top with a few lemon slices, turning the pasta into a real showstopper on your table. Serve hot and enjoy the burst of citrus, creamy sauce, and juicy chicken in every bite.
How to Serve Lemon Chicken Pasta
Garnishes
Nothing transforms Lemon Chicken Pasta quite like a flourish of garnishes. Finish with a scattering of fresh parsley for vibrant color, a few additional shavings of Parmesan for extra richness, and lemon slices or wedges for that unmistakable pop of brightness. These little touches wake up both the flavor and the visual appeal, making every serving feel restaurant-worthy.
Side Dishes
Pair your Lemon Chicken Pasta with a crisp, refreshing side salad — think arugula, baby spinach, or mixed greens dressed simply with olive oil and a squeeze of lemon. Garlic bread or a rustic baguette also make great companions, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. Even a quick sauté of seasonal veggies like asparagus or green beans adds a nice, fresh balance to the creamy pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
Elevate your presentation by twirling the pasta into high little nests (use a fork and tongs for single-serve magic) or plating family-style right in the skillet for a cozy, just-cooked look. For special occasions, try serving it in shallow bowls topped with grilled lemon slices or a sprinkle of microgreens. And if you’re hosting, a big platter with extra lemon zest and cracked pepper brings instant feast vibes to the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep Lemon Chicken Pasta tasting fresh, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. It will stay delicious for up to three days, though the flavors seem to deepen a bit after a night in the fridge.
Freezing
While pasta with a cream-based sauce doesn’t always freeze perfectly, you can store cooled portions of Lemon Chicken Pasta in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly when thawed — give it a good stir after reheating to restore creaminess.
Reheating
To reheat, simply place the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk, cream, or reserved chicken broth to loosen the sauce and help it regain its silky texture. Stir gently until warmed through. If you’re using the microwave, cover loosely and reheat in short bursts, stirring between each round.
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta shape for Lemon Chicken Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti or linguine are classics, you can use penne, fettuccine, or even farfalle. The most important thing is to choose a pasta shape that carries the sauce well and feels satisfying in each bite.
Can I make Lemon Chicken Pasta dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut cream or a creamy oat milk. Swap the Parmesan for a dairy-free cheese or simply skip it for a lighter, still-tasty result.
What can I use instead of chicken breasts?
Chicken thighs work beautifully for this recipe and bring extra juiciness. Grilled chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even cooked shrimp are excellent swaps if you’re looking for variety.
How can I make the dish lighter?
To lighten things up, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and opt for a smaller amount of Parmesan. You can also boost the lemon zest for flavor without adding calories, and toss in more veggies like spinach or zucchini for bulk.
Is Lemon Chicken Pasta good for meal prep?
You bet! Cook the pasta and chicken ahead, then toss everything together when you’re ready to eat. Keep components stored separately if possible for the best texture, and add a splash of fresh lemon juice just before serving to revive its brightness.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dinner that’s bright, creamy, and absolutely bursting with flavor, give this Lemon Chicken Pasta a spot at your table. It comes together fast, feels a little bit fancy, and manages to please just about everyone. Make it once, and you might find yourself coming back to this cheerful dish anytime you need a bowlful of sunshine!
Print
Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Lemon Chicken Pasta recipe is a delightful combination of tender chicken, tangy lemon, and creamy sauce tossed with pasta. It’s a quick and easy dish perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces spaghetti or linguine
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente. Reserve pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Season chicken with salt and pepper. Sauté in olive oil until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, cook garlic, then add chicken broth, cream, lemon juice, and zest. Simmer and whisk in butter and Parmesan. Add red pepper flakes if using.
- Combine and Serve: Return chicken to the skillet, toss in pasta, adding reserved water until coated. Garnish with parsley and lemon slices.
Notes
- You can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- For extra flavor, use grilled chicken instead of sautéed.
- This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 410 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 54 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
