Easy Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe
Easy Lemon Chicken Pasta is a light yet satisfying dish that brings together tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a bright, citrusy sauce. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe delivers a fresh, zesty flavor balanced by garlic, Parmesan, and a touch of creaminess. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels elegant without the fuss.
Ingredients
12 ounces pasta (linguine or spaghetti)
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon butter
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup heavy cream (optional for a creamier sauce)
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
Salt and black pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Season the chicken with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, or until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about one minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the lemon juice and zest. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Lower the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted. Add the heavy cream if using, and simmer gently until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce and help coat the pasta evenly.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
This dish can be made lighter by skipping the cream or replacing it with a splash of milk. For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few capers. Leftovers keep well and make a great lunch the next day. Serve with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Find it online: https://richspoon.com/easy-lemon-chicken-pasta-recipe/