Easy Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe
Lemon Chicken Pasta is a light yet flavorful dish combining tender chicken, zesty lemon, and creamy pasta. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or a delightful lunch.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta (farfalle or penne recommended)
- 4 thin boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds), sliced into strips
- 2 lemons juice and zest
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese grated, for garnish
- 1 cup reserved pasta water as needed
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water, add salt, and bring to a boil. Cook 8 ounces of pasta according to package instructions (about 10-12 minutes). Before draining, reserve 1 1/4 cups of pasta water.
- While the pasta cooks, season the chicken strips with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and add the minced garlic. Cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Add 4 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice (juice of 2 lemons) and, optionally, a splash of white wine. Scrape the bottom of the skillet to deglaze the pan.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta.
- Add reserved pasta water gradually to adjust the sauce’s consistency.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together to combine.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and lemon zest on top before serving.
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Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce for a slight kick.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream while making the sauce.
- This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.