This vibrant, Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta combines fresh lemons’ bright, tangy flavors with tender chicken and fragrant herbs. Tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and a light Parmesan-infused sauce, this dish is a refreshing twist on classic comfort food. Perfect for weeknight dinners or elegant entertaining, it satisfies every craving while being quick and easy to prepare.
Picture a plate of steaming pasta tossed with tender, juicy chicken, zesty lemon, and fragrant fresh herbs. This Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta brings vibrant flavors to your table, perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing your guests. It’s light, refreshing, and brimming with wholesome ingredients, making it a favorite among pasta enthusiasts and health-conscious cooks. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes!
- Refreshing and Flavorful: Lemon and herbs bring a zesty twist to classic chicken pasta.
- Customizable: Perfect for dietary preferences with simple swaps.
- Balanced Meal: Packed with protein and wholesome ingredients.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Ingredients and Substitutions
- Chicken: Use thighs or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Pasta: Fettuccine works excellent, or swap with zucchini noodles for low-carb.
- Lemon: Fresh lemons are essential; bottled juice lacks the zest and flavor.
- Herbs: Parsley and thyme shine, but basil or cilantro are excellent alternatives.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the Pasta:
- 250g pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Zest and juice of 2 lemons
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
How to Make Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta (Step-by-Step)
- Season and Cook the Chicken: This builds a flavorful base for the dish.
- Perfect Pasta: Always cook pasta al dente for the best texture.
- Bright and Creamy Sauce: The balance of lemon juice, broth, and Parmesan is key.
Expert Tips for Success
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for maximum flavor.
- Please don’t skip the pasta water; it helps emulsify the sauce.
- Rest the chicken before slicing to keep it juicy.
Variations and Customizations
- Make It Spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes.
- Go Veggie: Swap chicken with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas.
- Add Greens: Toss in spinach or kale for added nutrition.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad and garlic bread.
- A glass of Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works well and saves time.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
Dried herbs are a fine substitute; use half the amount.
Can I freeze this dish?
While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the pasta and chicken separately for up to 2 months.
Related Recipes
- Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
- Creamy Alfredo with Spinach
- Classic Italian Meatballs with Pasta
Conclusion
Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta is the perfect blend of simplicity and elegance. Its vibrant flavors and creamy texture make it a surefire hit for any occasion. Gather your ingredients, follow this recipe, and enjoy a meal that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat. Happy cooking!
Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Pasta:
- 250 g pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Zest and juice of 2 lemons
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through. Remove and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Cook the Pasta:Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
- Create the Sauce:In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth, lemon zest, and lemon juice, stirring to combine. Simmer for 3-4 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients:Add cooked pasta to the skillet along with Parmesan cheese, parsley, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
- Serve:Top the pasta with sliced chicken and garnish with additional Parmesan and parsley. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, add 1/4 cup of heavy cream to the sauce.
- Substitute gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
