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Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta recipe

Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta with Fresh Herbs

Chef Enzo, an Italian-American cuisine expert from Eat Every Slice, smiling while enjoying a plate of homemade pasta garnished with fresh basil.Enzo R.
Discover the perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors in this delightful Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta. Perfect for any occasion, this dish combines tender chicken, a rich lemon garlic sauce, and fresh herbs for a memorable meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large skillet
  • 1 pot
  • 1 Whisk

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 pound pasta of choice
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese grated
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil and parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and let rest before slicing.
  • In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
  • In the same skillet used for the chicken, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest. Bring to a simmer and stir in the parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Serving

  • Add the sliced chicken and cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach the desired consistency. Serve hot, topped with fresh basil and parsley.

Storage

  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce.

Notes

Pro Tips: Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor, and adjust the amount of garlic based on your preference.
Ingredient Substitutions: Swap chicken breasts for thighs for a juicier texture, or use mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
How to Serve: Pair with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it gently before combining with pasta and chicken.
Keyword creamy chicken pasta, easy pasta dinner, Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta