Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe: A Zesty Delight

This vibrant and flavorful Lemon Chicken Pasta recipe is easy to make, yet delivers restaurant-quality taste. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. We'll cover everything from ingredient selection to cooking tips, ensuring you achieve perfectly cooked pasta with a bright, lemony sauce every time.

Ingredients You'll Need:

This recipe serves 4-6 people. Adjust quantities accordingly for larger or smaller groups.

• For the Chicken:

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp paprika (optional, for extra color)

• For the Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste

• For the Pasta:

  • 1 lb linguine, fettuccine, or your favorite pasta shape
  • Salt for pasta water

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Chicken:

• Season the chicken cubes generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika (if using).
• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

2. Prepare the Sauce:

• In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
• If using, pour in the white wine and let it simmer for a minute or two, allowing the alcohol to cook off.
• Stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a gentle simmer.
• Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until slightly thickened. Stir in the lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Cook the Pasta:

• While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta according to package directions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Cook until al dente.

4. Combine and Serve:

• Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the sauce.
• Add the cooked chicken to the pasta and sauce, tossing gently to coat everything evenly.
• Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley (optional).

Tips for the Best Lemon Chicken Pasta:

• Use fresh lemon juice: This makes a huge difference in the flavor of the sauce.
• Don't overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough.
• Adjust seasoning to your taste: Add more lemon juice, salt, pepper, or Parmesan cheese as needed.
• Add vegetables: Enhance the dish with sauteed vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or asparagus.
• Make it creamy: For an even creamier sauce, add a tablespoon or two of cream cheese along with the heavy cream.

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Enjoy your delicious and easy Lemon Chicken Pasta!