Introduction

Welcome to my kitchen, where today we’re cooking up a dish that’s sure to become a favorite: Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta. This recipe is a perfect blend of tangy lemon, rich garlic, and velvety cream, all combined with tender chicken and al dente pasta. It’s a quick, easy, and customizable meal that’s great for any day of the week. If you’re looking for more creamy pasta recipes, be sure to check out my Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta recipe.

The benefits of this recipe are numerous. Not only is it a breeze to prepare, but it’s also highly adaptable. You can use different types of protein, add your favorite vegetables, or even change up the herbs and spices to suit your taste. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for leftovers, making it a great choice for meal prep or busy weeknights.

So, let’s dive in and explore the world of Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta. With its bright, citrusy flavor and comforting, creamy texture, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to love this lemon chicken pasta recipe. For one, it’s incredibly quick and easy to prepare. The steps are straightforward, and the ingredients are likely things you already have on hand. Plus, it’s highly customizable, so you can make it your own by adding your favorite ingredients or substituting different proteins.

Another benefit of this recipe is that it’s perfect for leftovers. The lemon pasta sauce reheats beautifully, and you can easily add some extra cream or herbs to give it a fresh flavor. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just looking for a delicious lunch or dinner option, this recipe has got you covered.

So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get started and make this amazing Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta recipe. Your taste buds will thank you! If you’re interested in more recipes like this, be sure to check out my Chicken Alfredo recipe for another creamy and delicious pasta dish.

Ingredients

10 ounces uncooked pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 medium boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 teaspoons garlic powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Sauce:

¾ cup low-sodium chicken broth
¾ cup heavy whipping cream
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Zest and juice of one lemon
1½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

When it comes to the ingredients in this recipe, there are a few key things to note. First, using fresh lemon zest and juice is essential for getting that bright, citrusy flavor. Don’t be tempted to use bottled lemon juice or dried zest – it just won’t be the same.

Another important ingredient is the Parmesan cheese. Freshly grated is always best, as it has a richer, more nuanced flavor than the pre-grated stuff. And don’t even get me started on the garlic powder – it adds a depth and warmth to the dish that’s just impossible to replicate with fresh garlic.

Of course, one of the best things about this recipe is that it’s highly customizable. You can use different types of protein, such as chicken thighs or ground chicken, or add your favorite vegetables to the sauce. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own! For more inspiration, check out my Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe, which features a similar creamy sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the 10 ounces of uncooked pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
Add the 2 medium boneless skinless chicken breasts to the skillet. Season them with 2 teaspoons of garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, to taste. Cook and brown the chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and let it rest for 3-4 minutes. Then, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Scrape the bottom of the now-empty skillet to loosen any browned bits from the pan.
Add the ¾ cup low-sodium chicken broth, ¾ cup heavy whipping cream, ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese, the zest and juice of one lemon, 1½ teaspoons Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, to taste, to the skillet. Stir to combine all sauce ingredients.
Bring the sauce mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
Add the cooked pasta and the cut chicken pieces to the creamy sauce. Toss gently to coat everything thoroughly before serving.

Visual Guide & Tips

As you cook, be sure to keep an eye on the texture of the sauce. You want it to be creamy and slightly thickened, but still pourable. If it gets too thick, you can always add a bit more cream or chicken broth to thin it out.

Also, don’t be afraid to get creative with the recipe. Add some diced veggies, like bell peppers or spinach, to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition. Or, try using different types of protein, such as shrimp or tofu, for a unique twist.

Whatever you choose, I hope you enjoy this easy lemon chicken pasta recipe as much as I do. It’s a true staple in my kitchen, and I know it will become one in yours too.

Expert Tips & Troubleshooting

One of the most common mistakes people make when cooking this recipe is overcooking the pasta. Remember, you want it to be al dente, which means it should still have a bit of bite to it. If it’s too soft, it will become mushy and unappetizing.

Another thing to watch out for is the sauce. If it gets too thick, it can become gloopy and unpleasant. To avoid this, be sure to stir it frequently as it simmers, and add a bit more cream or chicken broth if necessary.

Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things. This recipe is highly customizable, so feel free to add your favorite ingredients or spices to make it your own. And if something goes wrong, don’t worry – it’s all part of the cooking process, and you can always try again.

What Went Wrong?

So, what if things don’t go according to plan? What if your sauce is too thick, or your pasta is overcooked? Don’t worry, it’s easy to fix. Here are a few common mistakes and how to troubleshoot them:

Sauce too thick: Add a bit more cream or chicken broth to thin it out.
Pasta overcooked: Try cooking it for a shorter amount of time, or using a different type of pasta that holds its texture better.
Chicken undercooked: Make sure to cook it for the full 6-8 minutes on each side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

By following these tips and troubleshooting common mistakes, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious and satisfying Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Storage & Freezing

So, what if you want to make this recipe ahead of time? Or what if you have leftovers and want to store them for later? The good news is that this dish stores beautifully, and can be reheated with ease.

To store, simply place the cooked pasta and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. When you’re ready to reheat, simply microwave or heat it on the stovetop, adding a bit more cream if necessary to maintain the sauce’s creamy texture.

As for freezing, it’s not recommended, as the sauce can become watery and unappetizing when thawed. However, if you do choose to freeze, be sure to use airtight containers or freezer bags, and label them clearly with the date and contents.

FAQs

Here are a few frequently asked questions about this recipe:

Q: Can I use other proteins? A: Yes, you can use chicken thighs, ground chicken, or even turkey or shrimp for a unique twist.
Q: How do I reheat leftovers? A: Simply microwave or heat on the stovetop, adding a bit more cream if necessary to maintain the sauce’s creamy texture.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, you can cook the pasta and sauce ahead of time, then reheat when ready to serve.
Q: Is this recipe customizable? A: Yes, you can add your favorite ingredients or spices to make it your own.
Q: Can I freeze this recipe? A: It’s not recommended, as the sauce can become watery and unappetizing when thawed.
Q: What if I don’t have lemon zest? A: You can use bottled lemon juice or dried zest, but fresh is always best for the best flavor.

Nutritional Information

Here is the approximate nutritional information for this recipe:

Calories: 950 kcal
Protein: 35g
Carbs: 90g
Fat: 28g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 3g

Please note that this is an approximate calculation, and actual values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Conclusion

And there you have it – a delicious and easy Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. With its bright, citrusy flavor and comforting, creamy texture, this dish is perfect for any occasion, from a quick weeknight dinner to a special occasion meal.

So, what are you waiting for? Give this recipe a try and let me know what you think. And don’t forget to share your creations with me on social media – I love seeing what you’re cooking up in your kitchen! Did you make this? Pin it on Pinterest or tag me on Instagram @EvasRecipes!