Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon Chicken Pasta is a bright, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, zesty lemon, and creamy pasta for a comforting yet refreshing meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this dish balances richness with a citrusy punch that keeps every bite light and satisfying.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless skinless chicken breastspasta (such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)olive oilgarliclemons (juice and zest)heavy creamgrated parmesan cheesebuttersaltblack pepperfresh parsley (optional for garnish)

directions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy cream. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.

Stir in grated parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens slightly. Add reserved pasta water as needed to adjust the consistency.

Return the chicken to the skillet, then add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until evenly coated.

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional parmesan if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use grilled chicken or rotisserie chicken for a quicker version.

Add spinach or peas for a pop of color and nutrition.

Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

Include red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Use gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-free.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of cream or broth to keep the sauce smooth.Avoid microwaving for too long to prevent the cream sauce from separating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work great and add extra juiciness to the dish.

Can I make this dairy-free?

You can substitute the cream with a dairy-free alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.

What type of pasta is best?

Long noodles like spaghetti or fettuccine work well, but short pasta like penne also holds the sauce nicely.

Is this dish good for meal prep?

Yes, it’s easy to make ahead and stores well for a few days in the fridge.

Can I freeze Lemon Chicken Pasta?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it. The texture of the cream sauce may change slightly upon reheating.

Can I make it without cream?

Yes, replace the cream with a mix of pasta water and a touch of olive oil for a lighter version.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Avoid boiling the sauce after adding the lemon juice and cream—keep it at a gentle simmer.

What herbs go well with this?

Basil, thyme, and parsley all complement the lemon flavor nicely.

Can I add wine to the sauce?

A splash of white wine adds great depth—add it after the garlic and let it reduce slightly before adding cream.

Is it kid-friendly?

Yes, the creamy lemon flavor is generally mild and appealing to kids.

Conclusion

Lemon Chicken Pasta is a vibrant and satisfying dish that brings together the creaminess of comfort food with the brightness of lemon. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a quick weekday meal, it’s a versatile recipe that’s sure to please every palate. Try it once, and it’ll likely earn a spot in your regular rotation.