Lemon Chicken Pasta

Indulge in the refreshing taste of Lemon Chicken Pasta, a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a zesty lemon sauce. This recipe is perfect for a light weeknight dinner or an elegant meal that’s sure to impress. The bright flavors of lemon and garlic elevate the dish, making every bite a burst of deliciousness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon Chicken Pasta is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. The creamy lemon sauce adds a wonderful brightness that pairs perfectly with the chicken and pasta, creating a well-balanced meal. It’s a dish that feels gourmet yet is simple enough for any home cook.

Ingredients

• 8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti pasta
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet
• Tongs or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Zester or grater

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil Water: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the Pasta: Add the fettuccine or spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
3. Drain and Set Aside: Drain the pasta and toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C)). Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Sauce

1. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add Chicken Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring it to a simmer.
3. Add Cream and Lemon: Stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
4. Add Parmesan: Whisk in the Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if desired.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Add Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly, adding a bit of reserved pasta water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
2. Slice Chicken: Slice the rested chicken breasts and place them on top of the pasta.
3. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese before serving.
4. Enjoy!: Serve hot and enjoy this delightful Lemon Chicken Pasta!

Tips for Perfect Lemon Chicken Pasta

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and zest will provide the best flavor, so avoid bottled lemon juice if possible.
• Adjust the Creaminess: Feel free to adjust the amount of heavy cream and cheese based on your preference for creaminess.
• Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition, consider adding vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes to the pasta.

Conclusion

This Lemon Chicken Pasta is a flavorful, creamy dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its bright lemon flavor and satisfying textures, it’s a dish that will quickly become a favorite in your home!

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