Zesty Lemon Chicken Pasta: Quick, Easy & Flavorful

3.1. Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, saving a small cup of pasta water for later adjustments. For quality cookware, consider using the CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set.

3.2. Prepare the Chicken

Meanwhile, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. For efficient prep, you might use the Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master.

3.3. Make the Zesty Lemon Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium, add the remaining olive oil, and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the lemon juice and chicken broth (or white wine), scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze. Add lemon zest and simmer for 2-3 minutes to deepen the flavors.

3.4. Combine & Serve

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat with the lemon sauce. Add the drained pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water if you need to loosen the sauce. Stir everything together, sprinkle grated Parmesan, and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately for a fresh chicken pasta dish bursting with flavorful lemon chicken goodness. For more pasta inspiration, check out our refreshing lemon pizza.

4. Storage Tips for the Flavorful Lemon Chicken Pasta

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to consume within 2 days for optimal freshness. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short bursts, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain the sauce’s moisture. Consider using the Deluxe 33-Piece Silicone Utensil Set for easier reheating and serving.

5. Serving Suggestions for the Easy Lemon Chicken Recipe

• Pair with a light mixed green salad for a complete meal.
• Add a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini to enhance the freshness.
• Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious lemon sauce.
• For added richness, sprinkle more Parmesan or add a dollop of ricotta cheese.

Enhance your pasta night with a drink from the Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker or prepare fresh vegetables with the Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master.

6. Frequently Asked Questions about the Flavorful Lemon Chicken Pasta

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Skinless, boneless chicken thighs work well with this recipe, offering a richer flavor and juiciness. Just ensure they are cooked through.

Q: How can I make this easy lemon chicken recipe gluten-free?

Simply substitute the regular pasta with gluten-free pasta options, such as rice or chickpea pasta. Ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free as well.

Q: What’s the best way to make the lemon sauce more tangy?

Add extra lemon juice or lemon zest for a more pronounced citrus flavor. Taste as you go to achieve the perfect level of tartness.

Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the chicken and sauce separately, and combine with cooked pasta just before serving. This keeps the pasta from becoming mushy and maintains the freshness of the flavors.

7. Final Tips for the Best Flavorful Lemon Chicken Pasta

• Use fresh lemons for a vibrant, authentic flavor.
• Adjust the lemon juice to suit your taste preference for more vibrant zest or milder flavor.
• Garnish generously with parsley or basil for added freshness.
• For a creamier version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or mascarpone.

If you love citrus-infused dishes, check out our refreshing lemon pizza or discover tips for healthy quick dinners.

8. Conclusion

This flavorful lemon chicken pasta is a quick, easy, and delightful dish that combines the brightness of lemon with tender chicken and al dente pasta. Perfect for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests, this fresh chicken pasta recipe offers a perfect balance of acidity and savory goodness. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home anytime. Try this easy lemon chicken recipe today and elevate your pasta night with a zesty twist!

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Zesty Lemon Chicken Pasta: Quick, Easy & Flavorful

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Enjoy a bright and flavorful Zesty Lemon Chicken Pasta, a quick and easy weeknight meal with tender chicken, fresh lemon sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. This dish delivers the perfect balance of citrusy zest and savory richness, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings or special dinners.

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

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• 12 oz (340 g) of your favorite pasta (penne, spaghetti, or fettuccine)
• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/4 cup chicken broth or white wine
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken strips with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in lemon juice and chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan. Add lemon zest and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
4. Return cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat with sauce. Add drained pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water if needed. Stir to combine. Sprinkle with Parmesan and garnish with parsley. Serve immediately.

Notes

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
• Adjust lemon juice and zest to taste for more or less citrus flavor.
• For a creamier variation, stir in heavy cream or mascarpone at the end.

• Author: Emma Bloomfield
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Sautéing, Boiling
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Diet: Nut-Free, Vegetarian Options (use vegetarian pasta)

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1 1/4 cups)
• Calories: 430 Kcal
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 70mg