Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipes
There are some recipes that feel like a warm hug after a long day, and creamy lemon chicken pasta recipes fall right into that category. With its silky lemon-kissed sauce, juicy chicken cutlets, and perfectly twirled pasta, this dish strikes the ideal balance of comfort food and gourmet flair. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or impressing guests over dinner, this pasta recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
The best part? It’s easier to make than it looks. With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you can create a restaurant-worthy meal in under an hour. Let’s dive into the full recipe and tips to help you make this creamy lemon chicken pasta a star on your table.
Ingredients
For the Lemon-Herb Chicken
- 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced into cutlets
- 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tsp. lemon zest
- 2 tsp. dried oregano
- 1 ½ tsp. smoked paprika
- 1 tsp. garlic powder
- 1 tsp. onion powder
- ¾ tsp. kosher salt
- ¾ tsp. black pepper
For the Creamy Lemon Pasta
- 1 lb. pasta of choice (spaghetti, bucatini, pappardelle, or fettuccine work best)
- 1 Tbsp. butter
- 1 ½ cups finely chopped yellow onion
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup chicken broth
- ¾ tsp. kosher salt
- ½ tsp. black pepper
- ⅓ cup finely chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish)
- ⅓ cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese (plus more for garnish)
- 1 Tbsp. lemon zest + 3 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
Optional Add-ins
- Fresh baby spinach or arugula
- Sun-dried tomatoes
- Roasted broccoli
- Sautéed mushrooms
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until just shy of al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
In a bowl, combine chicken cutlets with olive oil, lemon zest, oregano, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook chicken until golden brown and cooked through (165ºF internal temperature). This takes about 7–10 minutes. Transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté onions until softened (4–5 minutes). Add garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Simmer uncovered until slightly thickened, about 5–6 minutes. Stir in parsley, Parmesan, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add pasta to the sauce with ½ cup reserved pasta water. Toss vigorously over medium-high heat until the noodles are coated in a glossy, creamy sauce. Add more pasta water if needed.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
Slice chicken into strips and arrange over the pasta. Garnish with extra parsley, Parmesan, cracked black pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
About the Recipe
A Taste of Italy at Home
Creamy lemon chicken pasta recipes are inspired by the comforting flavors of classic Italian cucina. The lemon adds brightness to balance the richness of cream and Parmesan, while the seasoned chicken elevates the dish from simple pasta to a complete meal.
Variations to Try
- Lighter Option: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt.
- Veggie Boost: Add roasted broccoli, zucchini, or baby spinach to sneak in extra nutrients.
- Protein Twist: Replace chicken with shrimp, salmon, or even crispy tofu.
Helpful Tips
- Always reserve pasta water—it’s liquid gold for achieving that silky sauce.
- Slice chicken thinly so it cooks evenly and quickly.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; finishing it in the sauce ensures maximum flavor absorption.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy lemon chicken pasta with a simple arugula salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete Italian-inspired meal. Pair it with a crisp glass of white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc for a restaurant-quality experience at home.
Nutrition Insights
Each serving provides a good balance of carbs, protein, and healthy fats, making it a filling and satisfying meal. At about 600 calories per serving, it’s indulgent but still manageable for a weeknight dinner.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoid curdling the sauce by not adding lemon juice until the cream has thickened.
- Don’t skimp on fresh lemon zest—it’s the secret to that bright, zippy flavor.
- Resist the urge to dump all pasta water in at once; add gradually to control sauce consistency.
Conclusion
Creamy lemon chicken pasta recipes are proof that you don’t need complicated techniques to make a show-stopping meal. With its rich yet refreshing sauce, tender chicken, and twirl-worthy pasta, this dish brings Italian comfort food straight to your kitchen.
So the next time you’re craving something cozy yet elegant, give this recipe a try. Share it with your loved ones, and don’t forget to sprinkle on that extra Parmesan—it’s the final touch that makes every bite irresistible!
