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Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta

Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful pasta, and a luscious creamy sauce with a zesty lemon twist, perfect for any occasion.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 640 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken

  • 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced into cutlets Use fresh chicken for the best flavor.
  • 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil For marinating the chicken.
  • 2 tsp. lemon zest Use fresh lemon for best flavor.
  • 2 tsp. dried oregano Feel free to adjust based on preference.
  • 1.5 tsp. smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp. garlic powder
  • 1 tsp. onion powder
  • 3/4 tsp. kosher salt
  • 3/4 tsp. black pepper

For the Pasta and Sauce

  • 1 lb. pasta of choice (bucatini, spaghetti, pappardelle, or fettuccine) Choose your preferred pasta.
  • 1 Tbsp. butter For sautéing the onions.
  • 1.5 cups finely chopped yellow onion
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced Using fresh garlic is recommended.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Can substitute with a dairy-free alternative if necessary.
  • 3/4 cup chicken broth
  • 1/3 cup finely chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish)
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese (plus more for garnish) Optional for garnish.
  • 1 Tbsp. lemon zest
  • 3 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice Freshly squeezed for best flavor.
  • Fresh baby spinach or arugula, sun-dried tomatoes, roasted broccoli, sautéed mushrooms (optional additions) Customize with your choice of vegetables.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil.
  • In a bowl, combine chicken with olive oil, lemon zest, and spices; toss to coat.

Cooking

  • Heat a large skillet over medium heat, add chicken, and cook until golden and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F), about 7 to 10 minutes. Transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm.
  • Cook pasta until just shy of al dente; reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
  • In the same skillet, add butter and onion; cook until softened (4-5 minutes). Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes.
  • Add heavy cream, broth, salt, and black pepper to the skillet; bring to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened (5-6 minutes).
  • Stir in parsley, Parmesan, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
  • Add pasta to the sauce, along with 1/2 cup reserved pasta water; toss vigorously until the pasta is coated in the sauce (2 minutes). If needed, add more reserved water.
  • Slice chicken and place on top of pasta. Garnish with extra parsley, Parmesan, black pepper, and a squeeze of lemon.

Notes

To store any leftovers, let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. For a creamy texture when reheating, add a splash of chicken broth. This recipe can be customized with additional vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
Keyword Chicken Pasta, Comfort Food, Creamy Pasta, Lemon Chicken, Quick Dinner