Bright & Tangy Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe for Dinner Joy

Weeknight dinners demand simplicity and zesty lemon chicken pasta recipe that satisfies everyone at the table.

Fresh herbs and tender chicken create a delightful harmony of flavors.

Tangy citrus notes dance through each perfectly cooked noodle, making this dish a standout meal.

Mediterranean influences shine through the bright, refreshing ingredients.

Crisp parmesan cheese adds a salty crunch that elevates every single bite.

This quick and easy recipe comes together in less than 30 minutes, perfect for busy home cooks.

Prepare to savor a restaurant-quality meal without the hassle of complicated techniques.

What Makes Lemon Chicken Pasta Shine

• Combines multiple herbs and spices like parsley, oregano, and basil to create a rich, layered taste profile that elevates the typical chicken pasta dish.
• Requires minimal prep work with straightforward steps, making it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels who want a delicious meal without complicated techniques.
• Offers easy substitutions like using extra chicken broth instead of wine, allowing cooks to adapt the recipe to their pantry ingredients or personal preferences.
• Blends the comforting elements of a creamy pasta sauce with bright lemon notes, resulting in a satisfying dish that's both indulgent and refreshing.

Ingredients for Lemon Chicken Pasta

• Chicken Breast: A lean and tender protein that forms the centerpiece of this delicious pasta dish.

• Spaghetti: A classic Italian pasta that provides the perfect foundation for the creamy lemon sauce.

• Parsley, Oregano, Basil: Fresh herbs that add depth and aromatic complexity to the dish.
• Mustard Powder, Salt, Pepper: Essential spices that enhance the overall flavor profile.

• All-Purpose Flour: Used for dredging chicken and thickening the sauce.
• Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle, savory undertone to the chicken coating.
• Lemon Pepper Seasoning: Provides a zesty and peppery flavor to the chicken.

• Chicken Broth: Creates a rich, savory base for the sauce.
• Half and Half: Adds creaminess and luxurious texture to the sauce.
• White Wine: Offers depth and complexity to the sauce's flavor.
• Lemon Juice: Brings a bright, tangy element to the dish.

• Butter: Provides richness and helps create a smooth sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.

• Garlic: Brings a pungent and aromatic flavor to the sauce.
• Chicken Bouillon Cube: Intensifies the savory chicken flavor.

Lemon Chicken Pasta Made Easy

Step 1: Prepare Chicken for Cooking

Slice chicken breast into thin, even pieces.

Pat chicken dry using paper towels to ensure perfect searing.

Season chicken with lemon pepper seasoning.

• Flour
• Garlic powder

Step 2: Sear Chicken to Golden Perfection

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Carefully place chicken in the hot pan.

Cook each side for 4-5 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.

Remove chicken and let rest for 10 minutes.

Slice into bite-sized pieces after resting.

Step 3: Cook Pasta to Al Dente

Bring a large pot of salted water to rapid boil.

Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes.

Drain pasta immediately to prevent overcooking.

Step 4: Create Flavorful Wine Reduction

In the same skillet used for chicken, pour wine.

Simmer over medium heat for 4 minutes until liquid reduces by half.

This process builds deep flavor and removes delicious browned bits from the pan.

Step 5: Build Creamy Sauce Base

Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet.

Sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant.

Sprinkle flour and stir continuously for another 2 minutes to create a smooth roux.

Step 6: Develop Sauce Consistency

Gradually add chicken broth while stirring constantly to prevent lumps.

Pour in half and half slowly.

Add chicken bouillon cube and seasoning mix.

Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer.

Step 7: Finish Sauce with Cheesy Brightness

Sprinkle Parmesan cheese into the sauce, stirring until completely melted.

Add freshly squeezed lemon juice for a bright, zesty flavor.

Step 8: Combine and Serve

Toss cooked pasta and chicken pieces in the creamy lemon sauce.

Ensure everything is evenly coated.

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Kitchen Tips for Lemon Chicken Pasta

• Gather and measure all ingredients beforehand to streamline your cooking process and prevent last-minute scrambling.
• Pat chicken dry and use flour coating to create a golden, crispy exterior that locks in moisture and flavor.
• If you don't have wine, replace it with extra chicken broth to maintain the sauce's depth and richness without compromising taste.
• Stir continuously when adding broth and half and half to prevent lumps, creating a smooth, creamy sauce that clings perfectly to pasta.
• Add lemon juice at the end of cooking to preserve its bright, fresh taste and prevent the sauce from becoming bitter or overly acidic.

Keep Lemon Chicken Pasta Tasting Great

• Store leftover lemon chicken pasta in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Properly sealed, it will keep fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• Transfer cooled pasta to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn. Frozen pasta maintains quality for up to 2 months.
• Place pasta in a microwave-safe dish. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent drying. Cover and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.
• Warm pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a little extra broth or cream to restore moisture. Stir gently until heated thoroughly, about 3-4 minutes, to maintain sauce consistency and prevent sticking.

Pairings for Lemon Chicken Pasta

• Savor Crisp White Wine Pairing: Complement the zesty lemon chicken pasta with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, whose bright acidity and citrus notes perfectly match the dish's tangy profile.
• Elevate with Fresh Herb Salad: Create a light arugula salad with fresh lemon vinaigrette, toasted pine nuts, and shaved Parmesan to echo the pasta's lemony brightness and provide a refreshing counterpoint.
• Match with Crusty Garlic Bread: Serve warm, golden garlic bread alongside the pasta to soak up the creamy sauce, adding a delightful textural contrast and extra flavor dimension to the meal.
• Enhance with Crisp White Sides: Prepare simple roasted asparagus or steamed green beans with a light lemon-herb seasoning to complement the pasta's citrusy, creamy elements and add nutritional balance.

Creative Takes on Lemon Chicken Pasta

• Gluten-Free Chicken Pasta: Replace wheat flour with cornstarch or almond flour for dredging chicken. Use gluten-free spaghetti made from rice, quinoa, or chickpea pasta to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
• Dairy-Free Option: Swap half and half with coconut milk or unsweetened almond cream. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese to maintain creamy texture and add nutritional benefits.
• Low-Carb Adaptation: Substitute spaghetti with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. Reduce flour quantity and use cauliflower rice as a base to create a lighter, lower-carbohydrate meal.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with grilled tofu or roasted chickpeas. Add extra vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to boost protein and create a hearty plant-based alternative.

FAQs

• Can I use different pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with other long pasta like linguine, fettuccine, or penne. Just ensure you cook the pasta according to its specific package instructions.

• Is it necessary to use wine in the sauce?

No, if you prefer not to use wine, simply replace it with additional chicken broth. The goal is to maintain the sauce’s depth of flavor and moisture.

• How can I make this dish healthier?

Use whole wheat pasta, opt for Greek yogurt instead of half and half, and choose skinless chicken breast. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use a low-fat version.

• What if I don't have lemon pepper seasoning?

Create a quick substitute by mixing ground black pepper with dried lemon zest or by combining regular pepper with a small amount of salt and dried lemon peel.

Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe

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4.5 from 32 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Zesty lemon chicken pasta brings Mediterranean sunshine to your dinner table, infusing classic comfort with bright, tangy flavors. Creamy sauce and tender chicken create a delightful meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 1 large boneless, skinless chicken breast (or 2 smaller breasts)
• Lemon pepper seasoning

Sauce and Pasta Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• 1 1/4 cups half and half
• 3/4 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 1/2 pound thin spaghetti

Herbs, Spices, and Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 chicken bouillon cube
• 1/3 cup flour
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Garnish:

• Lemons, sliced
• Parsley, roughly chopped

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Instructions

1. Gather and prepare all seasoning components: parsley, oregano, basil, mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Measure out chicken broth, half and half, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese to streamline the cooking process.
2. Slice chicken breast lengthwise into thinner pieces. Thoroughly pat dry with paper towel. Dust chicken with lemon pepper seasoning and dredge in flour mixed with garlic powder.
3. Preheat large skillet to medium-high heat. Add olive oil and sear chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Allow chicken to rest 10 minutes before cutting into bite-sized pieces.
4. Simultaneously, bring salted water to rolling boil. Cook spaghetti for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain pasta and reserve.
5. Deglaze the same skillet with wine, simmering for 4 minutes until reduced by half. If avoiding wine, substitute with additional chicken broth.
6. Introduce butter and minced garlic to pan, cooking for 2 minutes until aromatic. Incorporate flour and stir continuously to create a smooth roux.
7. Gradually stream chicken broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Slowly add half and half, then incorporate chicken bouillon cube and seasoning mix. Bring to gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer.
8. As sauce thickens, fold in Parmesan cheese until completely melted. Finish with fresh lemon juice for vibrant citrus notes.
9. Combine cooked pasta and chicken in the sauce, ensuring thorough coating. Adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.

Notes

• Select chicken breasts that are similar in size for even cooking and consistent texture.
• Pat chicken completely dry to achieve a perfect golden-brown sear and prevent steaming instead of browning.
• Slice chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces to ensure each serving has balanced flavors and consistent protein distribution.
• Use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled for brighter, more vibrant citrus notes that elevate the entire dish’s taste profile.
• Substitute heavy cream for half and half to create a richer, more indulgent sauce if desired.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg