If you’re craving a dish that manages to be both indulgently rich and bright with fresh flavors, then the Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe is about to become your new best friend. This recipe brings together tender chicken, luscious cream sauce, and the zesty punch of lemon, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta to create a truly comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a laid-back weekend feast, this pasta delivers flavor and satisfaction every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe lies in its straightforward, accessible ingredients that each play a crucial role in building layers of flavor, creaminess, and that just-right tang from the lemon.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into strips): Provides lean protein and a tender, juicy texture when cooked perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a fruity richness that helps in browning the chicken beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Gives the sauce depth and silky smoothness.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses an aromatic base that’s essential in nearly every comforting pasta dish.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that enhances the savory profile with herbs like oregano and basil.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A little gentle heat to balance the creaminess and lemon zest.
- 2 cups heavy cream: Creates the ultra-rich and velvety sauce that clings to every pasta strand.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds a subtle savory depth and helps to loosen the sauce.
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice: Brightens everything up with a fresh, citrusy punch.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest: Brings that extra burst of lemon aroma and flavor without the acidity.
- 1 pound fettuccine or penne pasta: The perfect canvas to soak up the sauce, offering wonderful bite and texture.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, nutty notes, melting lovingly into the creamy sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild, warming spice to round out the dish.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish): Provides a fresh herbal finish and a pop of color.
How to Make Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your choice of pasta according to the package directions until al dente, which means it’s tender but still has a slight bite to it—this texture is key for the perfect pasta experience. Be sure to reserve about half a cup of the pasta water before draining; it will come in handy later to adjust the sauce consistency perfectly.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Next, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your chicken strips generously with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side, allowing a beautiful golden crust to form while sealing in juicy flavors. Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. This step builds the foundational flavor and texture your dish will love.
Step 3: Build the Sauce Base
In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter to capture all those delicious browned bits left behind by the chicken. Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes, cooking for about a minute until the garlic is fragrant and the herbs release their aroma. This fragrant start sets the stage for a sauce packed with flavor.
Step 4: Add Cream, Broth, and Lemon
Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir gently and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it bubble away for about 5 minutes while stirring occasionally, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and develop a harmonious blend of creamy and bright lemon notes that make this Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe so irresistible.
Step 5: Finish the Sauce and Combine
Stir in your grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce, creating a velvety texture. Slice the cooked chicken strips and add them back into the skillet along with your drained pasta. Toss everything together so the pasta and chicken are perfectly coated in that luscious, creamy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add some of your reserved pasta water to loosen it up to your preferred consistency.
How to Serve Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of garnishing—sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top to add a lively pop of green and a subtle, fresh herbal note that beautifully balances the richness of the sauce.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with simple sides like garlic bread, which is perfect for mopping up extra sauce, or a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette to bring refreshing contrast to the creamy main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist when serving guests, try plating your pasta in individual shallow bowls and drizzling a little extra lemon juice or a touch of olive oil on top. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan or some toasted pine nuts can add delightful texture and make your presentation pop.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (although this dish rarely sticks around!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The sauce might thicken even more overnight, so be prepared to adjust it when reheating.
Freezing
This Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe can be frozen, but be aware that the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly. To freeze, place cooled pasta and chicken in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to two months.
Reheating
When reheating, gently warm the pasta over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce and bring back its creamy consistency. Avoid high heat to prevent the sauce from splitting.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine or penne work beautifully here, you can use any pasta shape you prefer or have on hand. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream?
Yes, you can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a mixture of milk and a bit of flour to thicken. This cuts down on richness while still providing a creamy texture.
Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Definitely. Adding vegetables like fresh spinach or asparagus can add color, nutrition, and extra flavor while complementing the creamy lemon garlic profile perfectly.
How spicy is the dish with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a gentle warmth—not overpowering but enough to balance the richness of the sauce. Feel free to omit them if you prefer no spice.
What’s the best way to get the chicken juicy and tender?
Patting the chicken dry before cooking and not overcrowding the pan helps it sear nicely. Also, letting it rest briefly after cooking keeps the juices locked in for maximum tenderness.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe is truly one of those dishes that hits every note: creamy, tangy, comforting, and easy enough to make any night of the week. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience the harmony of flavors and textures that make it a standout favorite in my kitchen. Once you do, you might just find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again.
Print
Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired, American
Description
This Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta is a delicious and comforting dish featuring tender chicken strips cooked to perfection and tossed in a luscious lemon-infused cream sauce with garlic and Parmesan. Served over perfectly cooked fettuccine, this Italian-inspired recipe offers a beautiful balance of zesty citrus and rich creaminess, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that’s both elegant and satisfying.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Cooking
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Sauce and Pasta
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 pound fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta. Set the pasta aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 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 to 6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned.
- Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to slightly thicken the sauce.
- Add Cheese and Combine: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Chicken and Pasta: Slice the cooked chicken into strips if not already sliced and add it back to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together thoroughly, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time as needed to loosen the sauce and achieve desired creaminess.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm, enjoying the rich and zesty flavors of the creamy lemon garlic chicken pasta.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half to reduce richness.
- Add fresh spinach or asparagus to the recipe to incorporate more vegetables and nutrients.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
