Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta
A delicious and comforting dish that combines flavorful chicken, creamy sauce, and pasta, perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests.
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.
Notes
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. Consider adding some fresh herbs like basil or parsley for extra flavor.