This Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta is a bright and tasty dish that’s super easy to whip up! It’s packed with juicy chicken, fresh lemon, and a touch of garlic for yumminess.
I always love how quick it is to make! Just cook the pasta, pan-fry the chicken, and mix everything together. Dinner is ready before you know it! 🍋🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Fettuccine and linguine are both excellent choices for this dish, but you can swap them out for other types like spaghetti or penne if that’s what you have on hand!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great for their tenderness. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for extra flavor or even leftover rotisserie chicken to save time.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for that strong flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used instead. Just remember that a little goes a long way—use about 1/8 teaspoon for each clove.
Lemon: Fresh lemons are ideal for zesting and juicing, bringing brightness to the dish. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can substitute, though it’s less vibrant.
Cream: Heavy cream gives a rich texture, but you can substitute half-and-half or a non-dairy cream for a lighter or dairy-free version. Just note that it might change the flavor and thickness of the sauce!
How Do You Achieve a Creamy Sauce without Curdling?
Getting that perfect creamy sauce is essential for this pasta dish. Here’s how to do it without curdling:
- Cook the garlic on medium heat to avoid burning it, which can lead to bitterness in the sauce.
- When you add the lemon juice, make sure to turn down the heat; high heat can cause the cream to curdle. Stir gently to incorporate.
- Let the heavy cream simmer, but do not boil. Stir occasionally to keep it smooth and prevent sticking.
- Adding the Parmesan gradually helps it melt evenly, creating a smooth sauce.
Following these steps will help you create a delicious and creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta that everyone will love!
Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta & Chicken:
- 8 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Flavorful Additions:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. With a quick cook time and simple steps, you’ll have a lovely dinner on the table in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your fettuccine or linguine pasta. Follow the package instructions and cook until the pasta is al dente. When it’s ready, drain it and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper to taste. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant—keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn! Next, add the lemon zest and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the skillet. Let this simmer together for about 2-3 minutes.
4. Create the Creamy Mixture:
Now, stir in the lemon juice, heavy cream, and butter. Continue to simmer and gently stir until the sauce thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes. After that, add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and everything is well combined.
5. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss everything together. Add the cooked pasta into the skillet, mixing it well to ensure it’s all coated in the delicious sauce.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the dish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve immediately while it’s warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and lemon slices if you like! Enjoy your delightful, creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine and linguine are great choices, you can substitute them with other pasta like penne, spaghetti, or even whole grain pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or milk. For a dairy-free version, try coconut cream or a non-dairy cream alternative. Just remember that the flavor and texture may vary slightly!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat while stirring continuously, or use the microwave. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to maintain the sauce’s creaminess!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli for extra flavor and nutrition. Sauté them along with the garlic or toss them in with the pasta for a delightful addition!
