Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe: A Delicious Blend of Comfort and Freshness
If you’re searching for a meal that’s creamy, flavorful, and easy to make, the Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta recipe is a perfect choice. Combining tender chicken, zesty lemon, and a silky cream sauce, this dish brings together comfort and freshness in every bite. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, romantic dinners, or when you want to impress guests with a restaurant-quality meal at home.
What Makes Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta So Special
The secret to this recipe’s success is its balance of creamy and citrusy flavors. The richness of the sauce pairs beautifully with the bright, tangy kick of lemon, creating a pasta dish that feels light yet satisfying. The lemon enhances the chicken’s savory flavor while keeping the sauce refreshing — a true crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this flavorful dish, gather these simple ingredients:
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2 boneless chicken breasts, sliced thin
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300g fettuccine or linguine pasta
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 cup chicken broth
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1 lemon (juice and zest)
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tablespoon butter
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
2. Cook the Chicken
Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet and cook the chicken over medium heat until golden and fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Lemon Sauce
In the same pan, melt butter and add garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, then pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Stir in the heavy cream and lemon zest, and let the sauce simmer until slightly thickened.
4. Combine Pasta and Chicken
Return the cooked chicken and pasta to the pan. Toss well to coat everything in the sauce. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water if the sauce needs thinning.
5. Finish and Serve
Mix in Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Garnish with fresh parsley and a bit of lemon zest for a vibrant finish. Serve immediately.
Expert Tips for Perfect Results
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Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor — bottled juice doesn’t offer the same brightness.
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Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente texture helps the sauce cling perfectly.
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Add veggies like spinach, broccoli, or asparagus for extra color and nutrition.
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For a lighter version, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta with garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad. A chilled glass of white wine, like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish’s creamy and citrusy notes beautifully.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful. It requires only simple ingredients but delivers a rich, sophisticated taste. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish never fails to impress. It’s the ultimate comfort food with a refreshing twist that keeps you coming back for more.
Conclusion
The Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta recipe is the perfect blend of comfort and freshness. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant lemon flavor, it’s a dish that brings joy to every bite. Simple to prepare yet elegant enough for special occasions, this pasta is guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen.
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