Lemon Chicken Pasta: A Zesty Twist on Comfort Food

This Lemon Chicken Pasta blends creamy sauce and zesty lemon for a quick and delicious weeknight meal.

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Course: Main Dishes

Cuisine: Italian

Keyword: chicken, comfort food, easy recipe, Lemon Chicken Pasta, pasta, Quick Meal

Prep Time: 10

Cook Time: 25

Total Time: 35

Servings: servings

Calories: 620kcal

Equipment

Large pot
Skillet
colander
Cutting Board

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz pasta Feel free to use spaghetti, fettuccine, or any of your favorite pasta shapes.

For the Chicken

2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Thinly sliced chicken ensures quicker cooking and better flavor absorption.
2 tablespoon olive oil Use this for pan-frying; it adds a warm, rich flavor.
1 teaspoon garlic powder This boosts the savory taste of the chicken.
1 teaspoon onion powder Enhances the overall flavor profile without overwhelming it.
salt and pepper Season to taste for perfect balance.

For the Sauce

1 cup heavy cream Creates a luscious, comforting base for the dish.
½ cup chicken broth Adds depth to the sauce; feel free to use vegetable broth for a lighter option.
1 piece lemon zest Infuses a refreshing aroma that truly elevates the Lemon Chicken Pasta.
1 piece lemon juice Balances the creaminess with its bright, tangy flavor.
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese Provides a salty, nutty taste that complements the lemon perfectly.
2 tablespoon butter Adds richness and a silky texture to the sauce.

For Garnish

fresh parsley, chopped This adds a fresh flavor twist as well!

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

Begin by filling a large pot with water, adding a pinch of salt, and bringing it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add 8 oz of your preferred pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8–10 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside, letting it rest while you prepare the rest of the Lemon Chicken Pasta.
While the pasta cooks, take 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook each side for 6-7 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoon of butter over medium heat, scraping up any flavorful bits left in the pan. Add ½ cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring well. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the zest and juice of 1 lemon, along with ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to cook the sauce, stirring frequently, until the cheese melts completely.
Once the sauce is ready, add the drained pasta directly into the skillet, tossing it gently to coat the strands evenly with the sauce. Then, arrange the sliced chicken on top.
Finally, transfer your delightful Lemon Chicken Pasta to serving plates, ensuring each portion is generous. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and avoid overcooking the pasta.

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