Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta

There’s something so comforting about a dish like Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta. I remember one evening when the weather turned a bit chilly, and I craved something warm and rich. I put on my apron, grabbed my favorite pot, and set out to create a meal that would not only satisfy my hunger but also warm my heart. The aroma of sautéed garlic mixed with the zesty scent of lemon filled my kitchen, instantly lifting my spirits. As the pasta boiled and the chicken sizzled, I reflected on the joy of cooking and how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta became a staple in my home, a dish that brought friends and family together, all eager to share in its creamy goodness.

What truly sets this dish apart is its delightful balance of flavors. The tangy lemon cuts through the richness of the cream, making each bite feel like a celebration. It’s perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. You’ll find that the combination of tender chicken, luscious cream, and al dente pasta creates a symphony of texture and taste that’s hard to resist. Every time I prepare it, I’m reminded of the warmth of family gatherings and the happiness that comes from sharing a meal created with love.

What’s In This Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta

When it comes to Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta, the ingredients play a crucial role in building its flavor profile. Each component complements the others, creating a harmonious dish that is both satisfying and delicious. Let’s delve into the key players that make this recipe a winner.

• 12 oz. fettuccini pasta or spaghetti: The base of the dish, these noodles provide the perfect canvas for the creamy sauce.
• 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breast: This lean protein is the star of the show, adding heartiness and substance.
• 1 egg: Used in the breading process, it helps the crumbs adhere to the chicken for a crispy coating.
• 1 Tbsp milk: This adds richness to the egg wash, enhancing the breading.
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs: These crispy crumbs create a delightful texture that contrasts with the creamy sauce.
• 1/2 tsp salt, plus more to salt the water: Essential for enhancing the flavors of the dish.
• 1/8 tsp black pepper: A simple seasoning that adds depth to the chicken’s flavor.
• 2 Tbsp olive oil: Used for sautéing the chicken, it provides moisture and flavor.
• 4 Tbsp fresh lemon juice, from 1 large lemon, divided: This brightens the dish and balances the creaminess.
• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter: Adds richness to the sauce.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor.
• 1/4 tsp onion powder: Enhances the savory profile of the sauce.
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream: Forms the base of the creamy sauce, making it luscious and satisfying.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Used to season the sauce, bringing all the flavors together.
• 1/3 cup parmesan cheese: Adds a cheesy depth to the sauce that ties everything together.
• 1 Tbsp parsley, optional garnish: Adds a touch of color and freshness when serving.

How to Prepare Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta

Getting started with Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta is a delightful experience. The process is straightforward, allowing you to create something special without feeling overwhelmed. Let’s dive into the preparation steps that will guide you along the way.

1. Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, add 1 heaping tablespoon of salt and then the fettuccini pasta. Cook until al dente according to the package instructions, which usually takes about eight to ten minutes. When it’s cooked to your liking, reserve half a cup of the pasta water before draining and lightly rinsing the pasta. This rinsing helps keep the sauce creamy and prevents the pasta from sticking together.
2. While the pasta is cooking, set up two bowls for breading the chicken. In the first bowl, beat together one egg and one tablespoon of milk until well combined. In the second bowl, mix one cup of panko bread crumbs, half a teaspoon of salt, and an eighth of a teaspoon of black pepper. This seasoned breadcrumb mixture will add a nice crunch to your chicken.
3. Next, take each piece of the boneless skinless chicken breast and dip it first into the egg wash, letting any excess drip back into the bowl. Then, coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring each piece is well covered. This double-dipping method creates a crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
4. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add two tablespoons of olive oil, ensuring that it lightly covers the bottom of the pan. Sauté the breaded chicken in a single layer for three to four minutes on each side, or until cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a cutting board to cool slightly. Squeeze half of the lemon juice over the top and cut into strips.
5. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt two tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, add two minced garlic cloves and a quarter teaspoon of onion powder. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant, allowing those aromatic flavors to fill the kitchen.
6. Next, pour in two cups of heavy whipping cream and add half a teaspoon of salt. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer while stirring frequently to combine the flavors.
7. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low. Gradually pour in the remaining two tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, whisking continuously to incorporate it into the sauce. You’ll notice the sauce thickening slightly as it heats.
8. Next, sprinkle in one-third of a cup of parmesan cheese and remove the saucepan from heat. Whisk until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated into the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt if needed—just a pinch will do.
9. In the last step, pour the sauce over the rinsed, drained pasta and gently toss to ensure every noodle is coated in that rich, creamy goodness. If the sauce seems too thick, add some of the reserved pasta cooking water to reach your desired consistency. Finally, garnish with parsley for a pop of color and serve the pasta topped with the sliced chicken.

How to Switch It Up

There’s always room for creativity in the kitchen! Here are some fun ways to switch up Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta and make it your own:

• Try Different Proteins: Swap out the chicken for shrimp or even tofu for a delightful twist.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate your favorite vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus to enhance both flavor and nutrition.
• Experiment with Cheeses: While parmesan is traditional, feel free to use pecorino or a touch of ricotta for a creamy texture.
• Change the Pasta Type: If you prefer whole wheat or gluten-free pasta, both options work wonderfully in this dish.
• Make it Spicy: For some heat, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or serve with a side of hot sauce.
• Herb Variations: Instead of parsley, garnish with fresh basil or chives for a different flavor profile.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This dish is great for meal prepping! Just store the pasta and sauce separately to keep it fresh during the week.

What Goes Well With This Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta

When it comes to serving Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta, there are plenty of delicious pairing options to consider. Here are some ideas to help you create a complete meal:

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm, crusty garlic bread on the side for a perfect accompaniment. It’s great for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta, balancing the meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, provide a colorful and nutritious addition to the plate.
• Wine Pairing: While I recommend non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with lemon can be refreshing and elevate the dining experience.
• Seasonal Fruit: End the meal on a sweet note with a simple fruit salad or some berries for dessert. They provide a light contrast to the rich pasta.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. It’s sure to impress without requiring extensive effort!

FAQ

Conclusion

Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the richness of cream with the brightness of lemon, creating a flavor experience that’s hard to beat. It’s a comforting meal that brings family and friends together, making it perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try making this dish at home; it’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy the cooking process and the delicious results that come from your kitchen!

Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta

The ultimate comfort food, Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta is a luscious and creamy delight that’s perfect for an easy weeknight dinner. With juicy chicken, rich cream, and zesty lemon, every bite is a burst of flavor. Make it tonight for a satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 650

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 12 oz Fettuccini pasta
• 1 lb Boneless skinless chicken breast
• 1 Egg
• 1 Tbsp Milk
• 1 cup Panko bread crumbs
• 1/2 tsp Salt plus more to salt the water
• 1/8 tsp Black pepper
• 2 Tbsp Olive oil
• 4 Tbsp Fresh lemon juice from 1 large lemon, divided
• 2 Tbsp Unsalted butter
• 2 cloves Garlic minced
• 1/4 tsp Onion powder
• 2 cups Heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese
• 1 Tbsp Parsley optional garnish

Equipment

• Saucepan
• Skillet
• Wooden Spoon
• Whisk
• Large Pot
• Frying Pan

Method

 

1. Bring a large pot of water to boil. Add 1 heaping tablespoon of salt and pasta. Cook until al dente according to package instructions or to your desired doneness. Reserve half a cup of pasta water, then drain and lightly rinse.
2. While pasta is cooking, set up two bowls. In the first bowl, beat together one egg and one tablespoon of milk. In the second bowl, combine one cup of bread crumbs, half a teaspoon of salt, and an eighth of a teaspoon of black pepper. Dip each chicken cutlet in the egg wash, letting excess drip back into the bowl, then dip in bread crumbs, turning to coat.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add two tablespoons of olive oil, or enough to lightly cover the bottom of the pan, and sauté the breaded chicken in a single layer for three to four minutes per side or until cooked through with an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Transfer to a cutting board to cool slightly, squeeze half of the lemon juice over the top, then cut into strips.
4. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt two tablespoons of unsalted butter. Then add two minced garlic cloves and a quarter teaspoon of onion powder. Sauté for one minute until fragrant.
5. Add two cups of heavy cream and half a teaspoon of salt. Bring to a simmer, stirring frequently. Reduce heat to low and while whisking constantly, gradually pour in the remaining two tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, whisking to incorporate.
6. Sprinkle the top with one-third cup of parmesan cheese and remove from heat, whisking until cheese is melted and incorporated. Season to taste with salt.
7. Pour the sauce over rinsed, drained pasta and toss to coat noodles. Add reserved pasta cooking water to thin the sauce if desired. Garnish with parsley and serve with strips of chicken over warm bowls filled with pasta.

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but the cream sauce may separate upon reheating. For best results, freeze the chicken and pasta separately.
• Pairing: Enjoy with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Variations: Consider adding spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
• Meal Prep: The pasta and sauce can be made in advance and combined just before serving.

Previous PostChicken Tortilla Soup

Next Post Easy Baked Honey Mustard Chicken

Meet Isla Banks

We eat with our eyes first, so I strive to make every dish look as bountiful as it tastes. I work on every stage of the process, from sourcing the freshest ingredients to styling the final shot. I tested this recipe repeatedly to provide you with the visual inspiration and reliability you need to cook with confidence.