This Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta is bright, yummy, and super easy to whip up! Tender chicken, zesty lemon, and garlic come together with pasta for a tasty meal.
Seriously, who can resist a dish that makes your taste buds dance? I love serving it with a sprinkle of parsley and a side salad for a fresh touch. It’s a winner every time! 🍋🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using linguine or fettuccine for a nice, twirlable texture. If you don’t have them on hand, spaghetti or even short pasta like penne works well too.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless breasts are best for this dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, feel free to substitute with chicken thighs or even a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh.
Olive Oil: This adds healthy fats and flavor. If olive oil isn’t available, any light cooking oil like canola or avocado oil can work as a substitute. Just remember, olive oil has a richer taste!
Heavy Cream: This is what gives the sauce a creamy texture. If you want a lighter option, try half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream. Just note that flavors may change slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is ideal for flavor. In a pinch, you can use Pecorino Romano or even a dairy-free cheese if preferred.
How Can I Make Sure the Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken just right can be tricky, but it’s the heart of this dish! Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a hot skillet to get that nice sear.
- Season your chicken generously with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). If unsure, use a meat thermometer!
- After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy.
These steps can make all the difference for tender, delicious chicken in your pasta dish. Happy cooking!
How to Make Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz linguine or fettuccine pasta
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
- Lemon slices, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes on prep, with 20 minutes for cooking everything to perfection.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the linguine or fettuccine pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. When done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Preparing the Chicken:
While your pasta is cooking, take the chicken breasts and season them generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. Then, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips or bite-sized pieces.
3. Making the Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat and add the minced garlic, sautéing it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant but be careful not to let it burn. Now, add the heavy cream, chicken broth, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it simmer gently for a few minutes.
4. Adding Cheese and Combining:
Next, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and unsalted butter, mixing until they melt and the sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Now, toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, mixing it until all the pasta is coated evenly.
5. Finishing Touches:
Add the sliced chicken back into the skillet, mixing it with the pasta and sauce to combine everything nicely. To finish, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if you like.
6. Serving:
Serve your Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta in bowls and garnish with fresh lemon slices on top for that extra zing. Enjoy this bright, creamy, and flavorful dish!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a healthier substitute that will give the dish a nutty flavor. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check the package instructions for accuracy.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Just remember that these substitutes may slightly alter the flavor and creaminess of the sauce.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Adding vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli can enhance the dish’s flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them alongside the garlic until tender before adding the cream and broth.
