Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe
Looking for a light, flavorful, and satisfying dish? This Lemon Chicken Pasta is a perfect choice for an easy, healthy dinner that even picky eaters will love. The zesty lemon sauce pairs beautifully with tender chicken and pasta, creating a balanced meal that is both refreshing and hearty. Whether you’re searching for new cook recipes or need pasta ideas with chicken, this dish is a must-try.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and simple, making it one of the best easy meals for busy nights
- Uses fresh ingredients for a bright and delicious flavor
- Great for meal prep and leftovers
- A healthier pasta dish without sacrificing taste
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 large lemon
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional, for added flavor and texture)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and oregano.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and let it rest before slicing.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the sliced bell peppers if using and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest. Stir and let it simmer for a minute.
- Reduce heat to low and add the heavy cream (or Greek yogurt) along with Parmesan cheese. Stir well to create a smooth sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat. If needed, add reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.
- Slice the cooked chicken and place it over the pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan.
- Serve warm and enjoy your flavorful pasta lemon chicken dish!
Prep Time
- Preparation: 10 minutes
- Cooking: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Tips & Variations
- For a crispy twist, try making lemon crusted chicken pasta by coating the chicken in breadcrumbs before pan-frying.
- Swap the heavy cream for Greek yogurt to make it an easy healthy dinner.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes or spinach for extra flavor.
- If you love baked dishes, turn this into a lemon baked ziti with chicken by mixing everything in a baking dish, topping with extra Parmesan, and baking at 375°F for 15 minutes.
This dish is one of the best lemon meal recipes for a fresh, zesty dinner that’s easy to make. Whether you need dinner recipe chicken breast ideas or something quick and satisfying, this lemon chicken pasta is a winner!
