Lemon Chicken Pasta: A Deliciously Creamy Delight

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Lemon chicken pasta is a creamy, zesty dish that brings comfort and joy to your dining table. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for family dinners or meal prep. You’ll love how quickly this dish comes together, making it an ideal choice for busy nights!

Table of Contents

Creamy lemon chicken pasta with peas and lemon slices

Ingredients for Lemon Chicken Pasta

Key Ingredients

To create this delicious lemon chicken pasta, gather the following ingredients:

Delicious lemon chicken pasta recipe with chicken and peas.

2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, halved lengthwise
¼ cup all-purpose flour
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 teaspoons lemon pepper
3 tablespoons olive oil
12 ounces spaghetti pasta
3 cloves garlic, minced
1¼ cups heavy cream
½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
⅔ cup frozen peas
1 lemon, zested and juiced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
2 tablespoons fresh chopped Italian parsley
Salt and black pepper to taste

Substitutions and Variations

If you’re looking to switch things up, consider these variations. You can replace spaghetti with other pasta types like fettuccine, rigatoni, or even angel hair. For a lighter version, use whipping cream instead of heavy cream. Additionally, feel free to explore options like lemon garlic chicken for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Lemon Chicken Pasta

Preparing the Chicken

First, mix the flour, ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, and lemon pepper in a shallow bowl. Dredge the chicken breasts in this mixture until well coated. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and cover it with aluminum foil to keep warm.

Cooking the Pasta

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta well and set it aside.

Making the Cream Sauce

In the same skillet, clean it out and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-low heat. Sauté the minced garlic for about one minute, stirring continuously. Gradually add the heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Slowly incorporate the chicken broth, letting the cream reduce slightly.

Combining Ingredients

Stir in the peas, lemon zest, and lemon juice, allowing it to simmer until the mixture reduces by about one-third. Lower the heat and gradually add ½ cup of Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts into a creamy sauce. Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce, tossing to coat. Add the butter and stir until melted, then mix in the fresh parsley and season with salt and pepper. Slice the chicken and place it atop the pasta. Serve immediately for the best flavor!

Tips for the Perfect Lemon Chicken Pasta

Simmering the Cream

When simmering the cream sauce, keep an eye on it to prevent boiling. This step brings out the rich flavors of the lemon and garlic.

Adjusting Sauce Consistency

If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer. For a thinner consistency, simply add a bit more chicken broth until you reach your desired texture.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave at 50% power, stirring occasionally. If you plan to freeze the dish, place it in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What to Serve with Lemon Chicken Pasta

Side Dish Suggestions

This lemon chicken pasta pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables. Consider serving it alongside roasted vegetable chicken sausage sheet pan pasta for a hearty meal.

Complementary Salads

A crisp Caesar salad or a light arugula salad with vinaigrette adds a refreshing touch that complements the creamy pasta perfectly.

More Pasta Recipes

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FAQs

What ingredients do I need for lemon chicken pasta?

You will need chicken breasts, flour, Parmesan cheese, lemon pepper, olive oil, spaghetti, garlic, heavy cream, chicken broth, peas, lemon, butter, parsley, and seasonings.

How do I make a creamy sauce for lemon chicken pasta?

To make a creamy sauce, sauté garlic, add heavy cream and chicken broth, then stir in lemon zest and cheese until melted.

Can I substitute chicken with another protein in lemon chicken pasta?

Yes, you can use shrimp, turkey, or even tofu as a substitute for chicken in this recipe.

What are some good side dishes to serve with lemon chicken pasta?

Good side dishes include a fresh salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to complement the creamy pasta.

How do I store leftovers of lemon chicken pasta?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

This lemon chicken pasta is not only creamy and delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. You can find more recipe inspiration on our Pinterest page. Enjoy your cooking adventure with this delightful dish that’s sure to please everyone at your table!

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