why make this recipe
Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together flavorful chicken, creamy sauce, and pasta to create a perfect meal. It’s quick to prepare and is ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your family and friends with a special meal. The bright flavors of lemon paired with garlic create a tantalizing sauce that’s sure to delight your taste buds.
how to make Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta
Ingredients :
- 12 oz pasta
- 2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
- 0.75 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
Directions :
- Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve some pasta water and then drain.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Sear chicken in olive oil until golden brown and cooked through. Slice the chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add butter and garlic. Sauté until the garlic is fragrant.
- Stir in heavy cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and grated Parmesan cheese. Let it simmer gently.
- Add the cooked pasta along with the reserved pasta water as needed, tossing everything to coat well.
- Return the sliced chicken to the pan, mix well, and garnish before serving.
how to serve Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta
Serve this dish hot, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese and some fresh parsley if desired. Pair it with a light salad or crusty bread for a well-rounded meal.
how to store Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water if the sauce thickens too much.
tips to make Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta
- When cooking the chicken, ensure your skillet is hot enough for a good sear without overcooking the chicken.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice and zest according to your preference for brightness.
- For extra flavor, consider adding some fresh herbs like basil or parsley.
variation
You can easily make this dish vegetarian by replacing the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini. You could also add spinach or cherry tomatoes for added color and nutrition.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fettuccine, or linguine.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and combine them with freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to serve.
Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 12 oz pasta Use any type of pasta you prefer.
- 2 pieces chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
Seasonings and flavorings
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
Cooking fats and dairy
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream Can substitute with half-and-half or a dairy-free cream.
- 0.75 cup Parmesan cheese (grated) Garnish with extra cheese if desired.
Instructions
Cooking Pasta
- Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve some pasta water and then drain.
Cooking Chicken
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Sear chicken in olive oil until golden brown and cooked through. Slice the chicken and set aside.
Making the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add butter and garlic. Sauté until the garlic is fragrant.
- Stir in heavy cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and grated Parmesan cheese. Let it simmer gently.
- Add the cooked pasta along with the reserved pasta water as needed, tossing everything to coat well.
Finishing Touches
- Return the sliced chicken to the pan, mix well, and garnish before serving.
