Picture this: a plate of lemon garlic chicken pasta, where tender pieces of chicken dance in a creamy sauce, brightened by zesty lemon and aromatic garlic. The moment you take a bite, the flavors explode like a summer picnic, making it impossible not to smile.
This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace for those hectic weeknights when you crave something special yet easy to whip up. Whether you’re cooking for friends or enjoying a cozy night in, the tantalizing aroma wafting through your kitchen promises an unforgettable flavor experience that will have you coming back for seconds!
Why Is lemon garlic chicken pasta So Irresistibly Good?
Quick and easy: In just 35 minutes, you can serve up this delightful dish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Bursting with flavor: The zesty lemon and aromatic garlic elevate the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is a taste sensation.
Crowd-pleaser: With tender chicken and fettuccine, this pasta dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
Versatile options: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or swap the chicken for shrimp for a new twist!
Comfort food at its best: Creamy, rich, and utterly satisfying, this recipe is destined to become a family favorite!
Ingredients for lemon garlic chicken pasta
For the Pasta
- 12 oz Fettuccine – A rich, wide noodle that beautifully holds onto the creamy sauce.
For the Chicken
- 2 breasts Boneless, Skinless Chicken (Sliced into strips) – Tender chicken adds heartiness and protein to this delightful lemon garlic chicken pasta.
For the Sauce
- 4 cloves Garlic (Minced) – Fresh garlic infuses a lovely aroma and robust flavor into the dish.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream – Creates a luscious base that coats the pasta perfectly.
- 1 cup Chicken Broth – Enhances depth of flavor while keeping the sauce light.
- 1 lemon Zest and Juice – Provides a bright, zesty punch that balances the creaminess of the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano – Adds an earthy note that complements the herbs beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon Salt (To taste) – Essential for enhancing all the flavors in your dish.
- ½ teaspoon Black Pepper (To taste) – A dash of pepper gives just the right amount of warmth.
- 2 tablespoon Olive Oil (For cooking) – Ideal for sautéing chicken and imparting a subtle richness.
For Garnish
- ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese (Grated) – A sprinkle on top brings a salty, nutty flavor to each bite.
- 2 tablespoon Fresh Parsley (Chopped) – Brightens up the dish with color and freshness just before serving.
How to Make lemon garlic chicken pasta
1. Boil a large pot of salted water and add 12 oz of fettuccine. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, embracing the delightful aroma of fresh pasta.
2. Sauté in a skillet over medium heat, heating 2 tablespoon of olive oil. Add 2 sliced boneless, skinless chicken breasts and cook until browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest.
For the Sauce:
3. Add minced garlic (4 cloves) to the same skillet, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream, then stir in lemon zest and juice from 1 lemon, along with 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Bring this luscious mixture to a simmer.
4. Combine the cooked fettuccine and chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together gently to coat the pasta and chicken thoroughly in that creamy goodness. Allow it to heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 2 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley for that vibrant finish!
Optional: Drizzle with extra olive oil for added richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips
- Pasta Perfection: Ensure you cook the fettuccine just until al dente; overcooked pasta can turn mushy and soak up too much sauce.
- Chicken Juiciness: Avoid overcrowding the skillet when cooking chicken strips; this allows them to brown properly without steaming.
- Garlic Timing: Sauté garlic just until fragrant. Overcooking can lead to a bitter taste, which will affect the lemon garlic chicken pasta flavor.
- Creamy Consistency: If your sauce seems too thick, gradually add more chicken broth until you reach your desired creaminess.
- Zesty Brightness: Fresh lemon juice enhances flavor; be sure to use both zest and juice for a balanced tang in your lemon garlic chicken pasta.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on the Parmesan and parsley; they add essential flavor and a beautiful presentation to your dish.
How to Store and Freeze lemon garlic chicken pasta
- Fridge: Store leftover lemon garlic chicken pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore creaminess. Avoid high heat to prevent curdling.
- Garnish: Add fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese just before serving for optimal taste; these ingredients are best fresh and should not be stored with leftovers.
lemon garlic chicken pasta Your Way
Feel free to get creative with this dish and make it truly your own!
- Whole Wheat Fettuccine: Swap regular pasta for whole wheat fettuccine for a nuttier flavor and added fiber. This swap not only enhances the dish's health benefits but also gives a delightful texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Grilled Chicken: Opt for grilled chicken instead of sautéed for a smoky flavor. Grilling adds a charred depth that complements the zesty lemon and garlic, making each bite more exciting.
- Vegetable Medley: Add your favorite veggies like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition. Tossing in fresh vegetables elevates this dish, bringing vibrant flavors and a crunch that brightens every forkful.
- Coconut Cream: For a dairy-free alternative, replace heavy cream with coconut cream. The creamy richness of coconut gives a unique twist while still keeping the dish luscious and satisfying.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to bring some heat. A little spice can elevate the citrusy flavors, creating a balance that warms the palate without overwhelming it.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme instead of oregano for a fragrant burst. These herbs add aromatic notes that enhance the overall freshness of the pasta, making it feel light and invigorating.
- Parmesan Alternatives: Try nutritional yeast or vegan cheese for a plant-based cheesy finish. This option retains that savory umami flavor while catering to those following a dairy-free lifestyle.
Make Ahead Options
This lemon garlic chicken pasta is a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dinner any night of the week without the last-minute rush. You can prepare the fettuccine, chicken, and even the creamy sauce in advance; simply cook the pasta according to package instructions and set it aside for up to 24 hours. Slice your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and sauté them in olive oil until browned—this can be done up to 3 days ahead. The sauce featuring garlic, heavy cream, chicken broth, lemon zest, and juice can also be prepped in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you're ready to serve, combine everything in a skillet, heat through for about 2-3 minutes, and garnish with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for that restaurant-quality finish. Enjoy this convenient make-ahead dish!
lemon garlic chicken pasta Recipe FAQs
What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Fettuccine is a fantastic choice for lemon garlic chicken pasta because its wide, flat shape perfectly holds onto the creamy sauce. However, you can also use linguine or penne if you prefer! Just ensure to cook it according to package instructions until al dente, which typically takes about 10-12 minutes.
Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with shrimp or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly—shrimp cooks quickly, taking only about 3-4 minutes, while mushrooms may require a bit longer to soften and develop flavor.
How should I store leftovers?
To store any leftover lemon garlic chicken pasta, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
Can I freeze this pasta dish?
Yes, you can freeze lemon garlic chicken pasta! Place cooled portions in airtight containers or freezer bags and store them for up to 2 months. When you're ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove. The cream sauce may separate slightly; just stir well before serving!
What are some suggestions for enhancing flavor?
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme along with the parsley when serving. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also give your dish a delightful kick! If you're feeling adventurous, try incorporating sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts into the mix.
What is the recommended serving size for this recipe?
This recipe serves about 4 people, making it perfect for family dinners or sharing with friends. Each serving contains approximately 550 calories, so it's both satisfying and wholesome! Feel free to adjust portion sizes based on your appetite or dietary needs.
Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir and bring to a simmer.
- Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss to coat everything in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
Leave a Reply