This Lemon Chicken Pasta is a bright and tasty dish that combines juicy chicken pieces with al dente pasta, all tossed in a zingy lemon sauce. It’s quick to make and so refreshing!
I love how the lemon adds a burst of flavor that makes it feel special without too much fuss. Pair it with a sprinkle of Parmesan, and you’re in for a treat! 🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Fettuccine works best for this dish, but you can use other types like penne or spaghetti if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly!
Chicken: I love using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their quick cooking time. You could use chicken thighs for a richer flavor, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Heavy Cream: This adds creaminess to the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter version, half-and-half or a non-dairy milk mixed with cornstarch can work too, but the sauce will be less rich.
Lemon: Fresh lemons provide the best flavor! If you’re out, you can substitute with bottled lemon juice, but use it sparingly as its taste can be stronger.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is key for great flavor. If needed, you can swap it with Pecorino Romano or a dairy-free cheese for a vegan version.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Getting your chicken cooked just right is essential for this dish. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with room temperature chicken. It helps cook evenly.
- Season well with your spice mix, including salt and pepper. This enhances the flavor.
- Heat the olive oil until hot, but not smoking, before adding the chicken.
- Cook the chicken 5-6 minutes on each side. If it’s thick, consider flattening it for even cooking.
- Rest it for a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy before slicing.
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked chicken that complements the zesty pasta beautifully! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Lemon Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta and Chicken:
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Zest and juice of 2 lemons
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For Garnish:
- Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Lemon Chicken Pasta takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to package directions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mixture evenly all over the chicken breasts for extra flavor.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
4. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and let it melt. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
5. Prepare the Cream Sauce:
Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens a bit.
6. Add Flavor to the Sauce:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
7. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat the noodles evenly in the lemon cream sauce. Make sure every strand of pasta is deliciously coated!
8. Serve with Chicken:
Place the sliced chicken on top of the pasta and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
9. Garnish and Enjoy:
If you like, garnish with lemon slices for an extra touch and some brightness. Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing Lemon Chicken Pasta!
Bon appétit! 🍽️
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine works perfectly, you can substitute it with penne, spaghetti, or even whole wheat pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream or cashew cream can also work nicely, but the flavor will be slightly different.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time! Just store them in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to two days. When ready to serve, reheat on low heat and combine with freshly cooked pasta.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce’s creaminess.
