Lemon Chicken Pasta

Lemon Chicken Pasta is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and bright citrus notes for a delightful meal. This recipe features succulent chicken breasts cooked to golden perfection, tossed with al dente spaghetti and a luscious lemon-infused cream sauce. It’s a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and creamy flavors that will surely tantalize your taste buds.

Why Make Lemon Chicken Pasta

Lemon Chicken Pasta is a crowd-pleaser that’s both elegant enough for special occasions and quick enough for weeknight dinners. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this dish comes together beautifully, making it a go-to recipe for busy cooks and food enthusiasts alike. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and zesty lemon creates a memorable dining experience that will have everyone coming back for more.

How to Make Lemon Chicken Pasta

1. Prepare Chicken: In a shallow bowl, combine flour, Parmesan cheese, and lemon pepper. Dredge chicken breasts in the flour mixture.
2. Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. Plate chicken and cover with foil to keep warm.
3. Cook Pasta: Cook spaghetti pasta according to package directions. Drain well.
4. Prepare Sauce: Wipe the skillet clean and heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Gradually add chicken broth while cream reduces. Stir in frozen peas, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Continue simmering until mixture is reduced by about 1/3.
5. Finish Sauce: Reduce heat to low and gradually stir in Parmesan cheese in small increments until melted. Add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. Stir in butter until melted and incorporated. Mix in fresh parsley and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve: Slice cooked chicken and add to the pasta. Serve promptly.

Serving Suggestions

Lemon Chicken Pasta pairs well with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. Garnish the pasta with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh lemon zest for added flavor. Serve with crusty bread or garlic breadsticks for a complete meal.

Storage Info

Leftover Lemon Chicken Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to refresh the sauce if needed.

Some Techniques or Tips

• To ensure tender and juicy chicken, be sure not to overcook it. Remove from the skillet once it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or milk for the heavy cream, although the sauce may not be as rich and creamy.
• Customize the dish by adding your favorite vegetables such as spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus to the sauce.

Variation

• For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta and ensure that the chicken broth and Parmesan cheese are certified gluten-free.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to enhance the flavor profile of the dish. Fresh basil, thyme, or tarragon would complement the lemony sauce beautifully.

FAQs about Lemon Chicken Pasta

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe? Yes, if you have pre-cooked chicken on hand, you can skip the step of cooking the chicken in the skillet. Simply slice or shred the cooked chicken and add it to the pasta when combining with the sauce.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time? While Lemon Chicken Pasta is best served fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them just before serving. Store the cooked pasta and sauce separately in the refrigerator and reheat gently before combining.
3. Can I omit the peas from the recipe? Yes, if you’re not a fan of peas, you can omit them from the recipe or substitute with your favorite vegetable such as broccoli or spinach.

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