There are some meals that feel like instant sunshine on your plate, and Lemon Chicken Pasta is exactly that—bright, creamy, and packed with zesty flavor. Juicy chicken, tender pasta, and an irresistibly tangy lemon cream sauce all come together for a dish that tastes every bit as vibrant as it looks. Whether you’re looking to shake up a weeknight dinner or impress guests on the weekend, this recipe is your ticket to a meal that’s as easy as it is unforgettable.

Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s true magic in simplicity, and the beauty of Lemon Chicken Pasta lies in how each ingredient plays its own delicious part. From the lemon’s fresh zing to the creamy goodness of Parmesan and cream, these pantry staples join forces to create something undeniably special.

Spaghetti or linguine (12 ounces): The perfect vehicle for catching every silky drop of that luxurious sauce—choose your favorite shape!
Chicken breasts (1 pound, boneless and skinless): Cut into strips, this ensures every bite is tender and flavorful.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning both your chicken and your pasta water.
Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): A gentle kick that balances all the bright flavors in the dish.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds a fruity note while helping brown the chicken beautifully.
Garlic cloves (3, minced): Aromatic and savory, garlic is the backbone of almost any great pasta sauce.
Chicken broth (1 cup): Adds depth and keeps the sauce pleasantly light.
Heavy cream (1 cup): Delivers all the creaminess and comfort you crave from this pasta.
Fresh lemon juice (1/2 cup, about 2 lemons): Don’t skimp here—this is the star ingredient for that unmistakable tang!
Lemon zest (1 tablespoon): For a burst of fresh, fragrant citrus aroma.
Crushed red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Adds subtle heat if you love a little extra excitement.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1 cup): Melts into the sauce, adding savory richness and a hint of nuttiness.
Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Makes your sauce even silkier and helps all the flavors meld together.
Chopped fresh parsley (2 tablespoons): A sprinkle on top brings a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness.

How to Make Lemon Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling your spaghetti or linguine according to the package directions until it’s perfectly al dente. Be sure to scoop out 1/2 cup of that starchy pasta water before draining; it’s going to help your sauce cling to those noodles later! Set the drained pasta aside, and get ready for the main event.

Step 2: Season and Brown the Chicken

Generously season your chicken strips with salt and black pepper. Heat a large skillet with olive oil over medium-high until shimmering, then toss in the chicken. Let it cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally so the pieces get a gorgeous golden-brown crust and are fully cooked through. Once they’re done, transfer them to a plate and keep them handy for later.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet—don’t wipe it out, those bits on the bottom mean flavor—add your minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. That delicious aroma is your cue you’re on the right track!

Step 4: Build the Lemon Cream Sauce

Now pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes (if you love a touch of heat). Let the mixture bubble gently for 3–4 minutes. Then, reduce the heat a bit and stir in the Parmesan and butter. Watch as it all melts together into the creamiest, dreamiest lemon sauce that’s pure comfort with a tangy twist.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Return your browned chicken to the skillet, then add in the pasta. Toss everything together so each strand gets coated—add some of that reserved pasta water a splash at a time if the sauce is too thick. Your Lemon Chicken Pasta should glisten and look irresistible by now!

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Once everything is tossed and glossy, take the pan off the heat. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a fresh finish, and serve immediately while it’s at peak creaminess. This is a dish worth gathering around the table for.

How to Serve Lemon Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

To make your Lemon Chicken Pasta pop, finish it with a handful of freshly chopped parsley, a light dusting of extra Parmesan, and even a few dainty lemon zest curls for dramatic effect. These touches not only look beautiful but brightens the flavors even more.

Side Dishes

This creamy pasta pairs delightfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, or a simple side of roasted asparagus or steamed broccolini. Don’t forget a basket of warm crusty bread for swiping up every last bit of that luscious lemony sauce!

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Lemon Chicken Pasta as a family-style heap in a big bowl for a casual dinner, or plate it in neat little twirls for a more elegant touch. For a fresh twist, try adding sautéed spinach or snap peas mixed through the pasta, or top with toasted pine nuts for an extra nutty crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Got leftovers? Let your pasta cool, then transfer it to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to three days. It reheats beautifully for quick lunches or easy next-day dinners!

Freezing

While cream-based pastas typically don’t freeze perfectly, you can freeze Lemon Chicken Pasta if absolutely needed. Store it in a tightly sealed, freezer-safe container and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. The sauce may separate a bit, but a splash of cream or milk while reheating restores its silky texture.

Reheating

For best results, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a dash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen up the sauce. Stir gently until everything comes together again. In a rush, the microwave works—just use short bursts and stir between intervals to keep everything creamy and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs bring extra juiciness and flavor, and cook beautifully in this recipe. Just be sure to trim any excess fat and cut into strips as you would the breasts.

How can I make Lemon Chicken Pasta gluten-free?

Just substitute your favorite gluten-free spaghetti or linguine, and double-check that your chicken broth and Parmesan are gluten-free certified. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free!

Is there a way to lighten up the sauce?

If you’d like a lighter twist, swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half or even whole milk—just know the sauce will be a bit thinner but still wonderfully creamy and lemony.

Can I add vegetables to this pasta?

Definitely! Add a few handfuls of baby spinach, sautéed asparagus, or even peas right before tossing the pasta and chicken with the sauce for an extra burst of color and nutrition.

What can I do if my sauce is too thick?

No worries—just add small splashes of the reserved pasta water until the consistency is spot on. The starch from the pasta water will help the sauce stay creamy and glossy every time.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a meal that hits all the right notes—zesty, creamy, comforting, and full of flavor—Lemon Chicken Pasta has got your name written all over it. It’s the dish I turn to when I want something that feels special but comes together easily. Trust me: one bite, and this will become a staple in your kitchen too!

Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 6 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the creamy and tangy flavors of this Lemon Chicken Pasta. Tender chicken strips are coated in a luscious lemon cream sauce, tossed with pasta, and finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh parsley.

Ingredients

Scale

Spaghetti or Linguine:

12 ounces

Chicken:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into thin strips)

Seasoning:

1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Sauce:

2 tablespoons olive oil
3 garlic cloves (minced)
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

Cook Pasta: Boil pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Cook Chicken: Season and cook chicken until golden brown. Set aside.
Make Sauce: Sauté garlic, add broth, cream, lemon juice, zest, and spices. Simmer, then stir in cheese and butter until creamy.
Combine: Add chicken and pasta to the sauce, toss to coat.
Serve: Garnish with parsley before serving.