Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you’re looking for a pasta dish that brings together the perfect combination of zesty lemon, creamy sauce, and tender chicken, then this Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. This recipe is great for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful yet quick to whip up. The balance of lemon, Parmesan cheese, and garlic creates a refreshing and savory dish that will please everyone at the dinner table. Let’s dive into this delicious and easy-to-follow recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Lemon Chicken Pasta recipe is a must-try for several reasons. First, it combines the brightness of lemon juice with the richness of a creamy sauce, offering a refreshing yet indulgent flavor profile. The use of lemon pepper seasoning on the chicken gives it a zesty kick that pairs perfectly with the cheesy, creamy sauce. It’s a simple dish with a few basic ingredients, making it accessible, but the flavors are complex and elegant enough to impress guests.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining friends, this recipe will leave a lasting impression. Plus, it’s a versatile dish—easy to tweak based on what you have on hand, and customizable to suit your tastes.

Ingredients for Lemon Chicken Pasta

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious pasta dish:

Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon EACH: dried oregano, basil, mustard powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ⅛ teaspoon black pepper

Chicken:

• 1 large boneless, skinless chicken breast (or 2 smaller breasts)
• Lemon pepper seasoning (for a zesty flavor boost)
• ⅓ cup flour
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Pasta & Sauce:

• ½ cup dry white wine (optional)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• ¾ cup chicken broth
• 1 ¼ cups half and half
• ½ chicken bouillon cube
• ¾ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• ½ pound thin spaghetti

For Serving:

• Lemons, sliced for garnish
• Parsley, roughly chopped for garnish

this RECIPE

Essential Kitchen Equipment

To ensure the cooking process runs smoothly, make sure you have the following kitchen tools on hand:

• Sharp knife: For slicing the chicken and mincing garlic.
• Cutting board: A sturdy surface for prepping ingredients.
• Large skillet: For searing the chicken and preparing the sauce.
• Medium pot: To boil the pasta.
• Tongs: Useful for handling the chicken and pasta.
• Silicone spatula: For stirring the sauce and scraping up flavorful bits from the pan.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient proportions.

How to Make Lemon Chicken Pasta

1. Prep the Ingredients

Before you start cooking, prepare all your ingredients. Combine the seasoning ingredients (parsley, oregano, basil, mustard powder, salt, and pepper) and set aside. Measure out the chicken broth, half and half, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese. This makes the cooking process seamless!

2. Cook the Chicken

Cut the chicken breast in half lengthwise to create thinner pieces. Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel to ensure a good sear. Season both sides with lemon pepper seasoning. In a small bowl, combine the flour with a pinch of garlic powder, then dredge the chicken in this mixture.

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Set the chicken aside to rest for about 10 minutes before cutting it into bite-sized pieces.

3. Prepare the Pasta

As the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes for thin spaghetti. Be sure not to overcook! Drain the pasta once it’s done and set it aside.

4. Make the Sauce

In the same skillet used to cook the chicken, pour in the wine and let it simmer over medium heat for about 4 minutes until reduced by half. This process helps deglaze the pan and adds depth to the sauce. If you prefer to skip the wine, you can substitute it with extra chicken broth.

Next, add the butter and minced garlic to the pan. Cook for about 2 minutes, allowing the garlic to become fragrant. Sprinkle in the 2 tablespoons of flour and stir continuously for another 2 minutes to create a roux, which will help thicken the sauce.

Slowly add the chicken broth in small splashes, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Follow this by gradually pouring in the half and half, ensuring the sauce remains smooth. Add the chicken bouillon cube and seasoning mix, then bring the sauce to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer.

5. Add the Finishing Touches

Once the sauce has thickened, gradually sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until it melts into the sauce. Finally, stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice to bring that signature zesty flavor.

Add the cooked pasta and chicken pieces back into the pan and toss to coat everything in the creamy lemon sauce. If desired, taste and adjust the seasoning by adding a pinch of salt or pepper.

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Chicken

Achieving a golden crust on your chicken is key to creating texture and flavor in this dish. Be sure to pat the chicken dry before seasoning and searing it in a hot pan. Overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming instead of searing, so give the chicken enough space to develop a beautiful crust. Letting the chicken rest before cutting also ensures that it stays juicy.

The Secret to a Creamy Lemon Sauce

The balance between creaminess and acidity is what makes this sauce irresistible. To prevent the sauce from curdling, make sure to add the half and half slowly and stir constantly. Avoid letting the sauce boil too vigorously. Gradually incorporating the Parmesan cheese also ensures that the sauce stays smooth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Lemon Chicken Pasta

• Overcooking the Pasta: Thin spaghetti cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to avoid mushy pasta.
• Burning the Garlic: Garlic cooks fast. Watch it closely, as burnt garlic can give the sauce a bitter taste.
• Too Much Lemon: Lemon is the star of this dish, but too much can overpower the creamy sauce. Stick to the recommended amount and adjust to taste if necessary.

Serving and Presentation Tips

For a professional presentation, garnish the pasta with fresh lemon slices and a sprinkle of chopped parsley. These garnishes not only add a pop of color but also enhance the dish’s fresh flavors. Serve the pasta in wide bowls for an elegant, rustic look.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or half and half to loosen up the sauce before microwaving or reheating on the stove. This will help maintain the creamy consistency without drying out the pasta.

Recipe Swaps and Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for a veggie-packed version.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free spaghetti and a gluten-free flour blend for dredging the chicken.
• Protein Alternatives: Swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a fun twist!

FAQs About Lemon Chicken Pasta

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Store them separately, and combine them with freshly cooked pasta just before serving.

Can I use milk instead of half and half? While you can use milk, it won’t be as rich and creamy. Whole milk is the best substitute if you don’t have half and half.

What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese? Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano can be used in place of Parmesan for a similar salty, nutty flavor.

Conclusion

This Lemon Chicken Pasta is the perfect balance of zesty, creamy, and savory flavors. It’s easy to prepare, but impressive enough for a special meal. Give it a try tonight, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family. If you loved this dish, be sure to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes like this one!

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