Description
This creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta features tender chicken breasts and al dente pasta enveloped in a rich lemon-infused sauce. It’s a delightful dish that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, offering a comforting yet refreshing flavor profile.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz (225 g) pasta (fettuccine or linguine)
- 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 dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts.
- Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
- Bring salted water to a boil in a large pot.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes).
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and rinse briefly under cold water. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up browned bits from the skillet.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in heavy cream.
- Add Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest, stirring until smooth.
- Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
- Fold in sliced chicken, ensuring even coverage with the sauce.
- If needed, add more reserved pasta water for desired creaminess.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes over low heat to warm through.
- Remove from heat and serve in bowls or on plates.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Enjoy with garlic bread or a fresh green salad!
Notes
- For added nutrition, consider incorporating vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus during the last few minutes of cooking the pasta.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes