In a culinary world often defined by complex techniques and lengthy ingredient lists, some dishes stand out for their elegant simplicity and vibrant flavors. This Lemon Chicken Pasta is precisely one such gem. Crafted to be on your table in under 30 minutes, it’s the quintessential quick and easy dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste. Imagine tender chicken, perfectly al dente pasta, and a luminous lemon-infused sauce, all harmonizing to create a symphony of delicious yet understated flavors. Whether you’re a busy parent seeking a swift weeknight solution or an aspiring home chef looking to impress without the stress, this recipe promises to deliver a delightful dining experience.
Lemon Chicken Pasta: A Zesty & Satisfying Meal
Lemon holds a special place in my heart, extending far beyond the realm of desserts. Its bright, acidic notes possess an incredible power to elevate savory dishes, cutting through richness and infusing meals with an invigorating freshness. This Lemon Chicken Pasta is a prime example of lemon’s versatility, transforming simple ingredients into something truly extraordinary. It’s a recipe that belies its ease, tasting as if you’ve poured hours of effort into its creation. From the first forkful, the vibrant citrus, savory chicken, and comforting pasta will tantalize your taste buds, making it an instant hit for family dinners or a charming centerpiece for a casual dinner party. With readily available ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, this Lemon Chicken Pasta is destined to become a beloved staple in your collection of go-to fast-fix meals.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Chicken Pasta
- Effortlessly Quick: From prep to plate in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for the busiest weeknights.
- Bright & Balanced Flavors: The perfect blend of zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and savory chicken creates a harmonious and satisfying dish.
- Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of these pantry staples on hand already, simplifying your grocery run.
- Family-Friendly: A universally appealing dish that even picky eaters will adore, thanks to its comforting pasta base and familiar chicken.
- Versatile & Customizable: Easily adaptable with your favorite vegetables or different pasta shapes to suit any preference.
- Impressive Yet Easy: Tastes gourmet but requires minimal culinary skill, perfect for entertaining or a special treat.
“Made this tonight and it was super yummy! Your instructions were so easy to follow and well written. I wouldn’t change a thing in this recipe!”
– Claudia
Frequently Asked Questions:
Absolutely! Chicken tenderloins are a fantastic substitute for chicken breasts in this recipe. Since we aim for thinly sliced chicken to cook quickly and absorb flavor, you’ll still want to slice the tenderloins horizontally or into bite-sized pieces. Generally, about 4-5 chicken tenderloins will be equivalent to one large chicken breast, providing a similar amount of meat for the dish. This adjustment won’t compromise the flavor or cooking time significantly.
While I personally find angel hair pasta to be ideal for its delicate texture and quick cooking time, which perfectly complements the light lemon sauce, this recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to use any of your favorite pasta shapes! Spaghetti, linguine, rotini, penne, or even farfalle would work wonderfully. The key is to ensure it’s cooked al dente according to package directions, as it will finish cooking in the sauce. Choose a shape that you enjoy and that can hold the vibrant sauce well.
For the absolute best flavor in this Lemon Chicken Pasta, fresh-squeezed lemon juice is highly recommended. Bottled lemon juice often has a duller, sometimes metallic, taste that can significantly alter the dish’s brightness. Since lemon is truly the star ingredient here, its quality makes a big difference. However, if you’re in a pinch and fresh lemons aren’t available, bottled lemon juice can be used. Just be aware that the overall zest and vibrancy of the dish might be slightly subdued. You might also need to adjust the quantity slightly to achieve the desired lemony punch.
For this recipe, you’ll want to use one small tomato, and Roma tomatoes are an excellent choice. Their firm flesh, lower seed content, and mild flavor make them perfect for dicing and adding to the sauce without making it watery. Other good alternatives include grape or cherry tomatoes, which can be halved or quartered, or even a small vine-ripened tomato. The goal is to add a subtle burst of freshness and a hint of color to the sauce, so avoid overly juicy or large varieties that might overpower the lemon flavor.
Leftover Lemon Chicken Pasta stores beautifully! Simply transfer any remaining pasta into an airtight container and refrigerate it promptly. It will maintain its delicious flavor and texture for up to 2-3 days. When reheating, you might find the sauce has thickened slightly. To restore its creamy consistency, add a splash of chicken stock or water during reheating, either on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Essential Ingredients for Zesty Lemon Chicken Pasta:
Gathering your ingredients beforehand is key to a smooth and quick cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need to create this bright and flavorful Lemon Chicken Pasta:
- Chicken Breast
- All-Purpose Flour
- Kosher Salt and Black Pepper
- Olive Oil
- Unsalted Butter
- Garlic
- Tomato
- Lemon Juice
- Chicken Stock
- Parmesan Cheese
- Angel Hair Pasta (or your preferred pasta)
- Fresh Basil Leaves
Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Lemon Chicken Pasta
Creating this delicious Lemon Chicken Pasta is surprisingly simple, even for novice cooks. Follow these clear steps to bring this vibrant dish to life in your own kitchen.
1. Prepare the Chicken
Begin by thinly slicing the chicken breast. Aim for uniform pieces, about ¼-inch thick, to ensure even and quick cooking. In a shallow bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour with the kosher salt and black pepper. Add the thinly sliced chicken to this mixture, tossing gently to ensure each piece is evenly coated. Lightly shake off any excess flour, as a thin coating is all you need for a beautiful sear and to help thicken the sauce later.
2. Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet with deep sides over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, carefully add the flour-coated chicken in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. If necessary, work in batches to achieve a proper sear. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the seared chicken from the pan and transfer it to a clean plate. Set it aside for now.
3. Build the Aromatic Sauce Base
Using the same skillet (don’t clean it, as the fond adds flavor!), reduce the heat slightly if needed, then add the unsalted butter. Once the butter has melted, stir in the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds, until the garlic becomes fragrant and lightly golden, being careful not to burn it. Next, add the diced small tomato to the pan. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the tomatoes to soften and begin breaking down, releasing their sweet juices. This step creates a rich, flavorful foundation for your sauce.
4. Create the Silky Lemon Sauce
Sprinkle the remaining 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour into the pan with the butter, garlic, and tomatoes. Whisk it in quickly to form a roux, and cook for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste. Then, slowly pour in the fresh lemon juice and chicken stock while whisking constantly. This gradual addition and continuous whisking are crucial to prevent lumps and create a smooth, velvety sauce. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly. The aroma of lemon will begin to fill your kitchen at this stage!
5. Combine and Toss with Pasta
Return the seared chicken to the pan, nestling it into the simmering lemon sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s fully incorporated and melted, adding a creamy, savory dimension to the sauce. Finally, add the freshly cooked pasta directly into the pan. Using tongs, gently toss the pasta with the chicken and sauce until every strand is beautifully coated. Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with additional salt and black pepper if necessary, to truly make the flavors pop.
6. The Fresh Finish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the fresh basil leaves, torn or roughly chopped, allowing their aromatic oils to infuse into the warm pasta and sauce. The residual heat will gently wilt the basil, preserving its vibrant color and flavor. Serve your Lemon Chicken Pasta immediately, optionally garnished with an extra sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a few more fresh basil leaves or a lemon wedge for an extra burst of freshness. Enjoy this delightful and easy meal!
Pro Tips for Perfect Lemon Chicken Pasta
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing the chicken, give each piece enough space to brown properly. Overcrowding will steam the chicken instead of searing it, preventing that delicious golden crust. Work in batches if necessary.
- Al Dente Pasta is Key: Cook your pasta to al dente, meaning it’s still slightly firm to the bite. It will finish cooking in the hot sauce, absorbing flavors and preventing it from becoming mushy.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining your pasta, reserve about ½ cup of the starchy cooking water. If your sauce becomes too thick, a splash of this water can help thin it out and make it cling beautifully to the pasta.
- Freshness Matters: Especially for lemon and basil, using fresh ingredients will make a noticeable difference in the overall flavor profile of this dish. Avoid dried basil if possible.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste your sauce before adding the pasta. Adjust salt, pepper, or even a tiny bit more lemon juice if you feel it needs more brightness.
- Mise en Place: Since this is a quick recipe, having all your ingredients prepped and measured before you start cooking will make the process incredibly smooth and stress-free.
Delicious Variations to Try
While the classic Lemon Chicken Pasta is perfect as is, it’s also wonderfully adaptable. Here are some ideas to customize your dish:
- Add More Vegetables: Incorporate some seasonal veggies like fresh spinach (stirred in at the very end until wilted), asparagus spears, frozen peas, or cherry tomatoes (halved and added with the diced tomato).
- Make it Creamier: For a richer sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese along with the chicken stock.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic for a subtle kick that complements the lemon beautifully.
- Different Herbs: While basil is traditional, fresh parsley or dill can also offer lovely herbaceous notes.
- Cheese Alternatives: Experiment with different grated cheeses like Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor, or even a mild provolone for extra meltiness.
- Add a Crunchy Topping: Toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs can add a delightful texture contrast.
Craving More Zesty Recipes?
- Lemon Chicken Soup with Rice
- Lemon Rosemary Chicken
- Asian Lemon Chicken
- Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs
- Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Chicken
- Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites
- Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Creamy Lemon Chicken Skillet
- Penne Pasta with Homemade Tomato Sauce
- Grilled Italian Lemon Garlic Chicken
- Tuna Macaroni Salad
Lemon Chicken Pasta
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8 minutes
20 minutes
28 minutes
2
Brandie Skibinski
Ingredients
- 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour, divided use
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 small tomato diced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice, fresh squeezed
- ¾ cup chicken stock
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 8 ounces angel hair pasta (half a box), cooked per directions
- 5 fresh basil leaves, torn, plus more for garnish
Instructions
- Thinly slice the chicken breast. Mix together 2 tablespoons of the flour, the salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and coat the chicken in the mixture, shake off any excess.
- In a large skillet with deep sides, add the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, sear the chicken on both sides until cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan on a plate, set aside.
- Add the butter to the pan and stir in the garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add in the tomato and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally until the tomatoes start to break up.
- Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of flour to the pan and whisk it in. Cook for 1 minute.
- Add the lemon juice and chicken stock, adding slowly while whisking constantly to make sure there are no lumps. Let sauce come to a simmer.
- Add the chicken back to the pan and the parmesan cheese, stir to combine.
- Add the cooked pasta and toss in the sauce. Using tongs for this step helps. Taste, add salt and pepper if necessary.
- Take off the heat and stir in the fresh basil. Serve immediately with more parmesan and basil, optional.
Notes
- You can use any of your favorite pasta for this recipe as long as it is the same amount as specified in the recipe.
- Bottled lemon juice will work in a pinch, but fresh is highly recommended for best flavor.
- Chicken tenderloins can be used in replacement of a chicken breast; adjust slicing as needed.
Main Course
American
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 100g |
Protein: 48g |
Fat: 29g |
Sodium: 1043mg |
Fiber: 4g |
Sugar: 6g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
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In conclusion, this Lemon Chicken Pasta recipe offers a delightful blend of simplicity, speed, and sensational flavor. It’s a testament to how humble ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create a truly memorable meal. Whether you’re navigating a busy weekday or seeking a fuss-free yet elegant dish for guests, this zesty pasta is sure to become a beloved staple in your culinary repertoire. We hope you enjoy making and sharing this vibrant dish as much as we do!