Zesty Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe for Dinner

The aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil dances through the kitchen as you prepare to whip up a delightful lemon garlic chicken pasta. The bright zest of lemons mingles with succulent pieces of chicken, creating an irresistible symphony of flavors that promises to elevate your dinner game.

You’re hosting a cozy gathering or simply treating yourself after a long day. The anticipation builds as you know this dish will impress everyone at the table—whether they’re culinary enthusiasts or just hungry friends who love good food!

I still remember the first time I made this zesty dish—my family devoured it in seconds! Their delighted faces made all the chopping and stirring worth it.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts; adjust according to your crowd size.
• Fresh Garlic: Opt for firm cloves; they pack a punch in flavor!
• Lemons: Freshly squeezed juice is key; bottled juice just won’t cut it.
• Pasta (Fettuccine or Spaghetti): Choose your favorite; both work well to soak up that zesty sauce.
• Olive Oil: A drizzle adds richness; use extra virgin for the best taste.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grate it fresh; nothing beats that nutty flavor!
• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle adds brightness and color; don’t skip it!
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste.
• Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): For those who like a little heat; totally up to you!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Gather all ingredients on your countertop. Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and mince the garlic—your kitchen will smell divine!

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and add your pasta. Cook until al dente according to package instructions. Remember not to overcook it—nobody likes mushy pasta!

Sauté Chicken and Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, toss in your chopped chicken and sauté until golden brown and cooked through—about 5-7 minutes. The aroma will make you smile!

Add Garlic and Lemon Juice: Lower the heat slightly before adding minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for another minute until fragrant but not burned! Then squeeze in fresh lemon juice—it’s like sunshine in liquid form.

Combine Everything: Drain your pasta (reserve some water!) and add it directly into the skillet with chicken and garlic. Toss everything together while adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce.

Finish with Cheese and Herbs: Remove from heat, then sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over your masterpiece along with fresh parsley. Toss again until everything is coated evenly—it’s time to dig in!

This delicious lemon garlic chicken pasta is not only easy but also packed with flavor that’ll have everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy every bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first until golden, then cook the pasta while preparing the zesty sauce for perfect timing.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap chicken with shrimp or tofu, and toss in spinach or cherry tomatoes for added flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat.

When I first made this lemon garlic chicken pasta for friends, they begged for seconds! It became our go-to dish for gatherings since everyone loves it.

FAQ

What can I substitute for chicken in lemon garlic chicken pasta?

You can use shrimp, tofu, or even chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian option.

How do I prevent my pasta from becoming mushy?

Make sure to cook it al dente according to package instructions for the best texture.

Can I make lemon garlic chicken pasta ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge; just reheat gently before serving.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta

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• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Lemon garlic chicken pasta is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken, zesty lemon, and aromatic garlic for a delightful dinner experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• Juice of 2 large lemons (about 1/2 cup)
• 8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

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Instructions

1. 1. Prepare your ingredients: Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and mince the garlic.
2. 2. Cook the pasta: In a large pot, boil salted water and cook your pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. 3. Sauté chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown (5-7 minutes).
4. 4. Add garlic and lemon: Lower the heat slightly, add minced garlic to the skillet, and sauté for one minute. Squeeze in lemon juice.
5. 5. Combine: Add drained pasta to the skillet with chicken and garlic. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a sauce.
6. 6. Finish: Remove from heat, stir in Parmesan cheese and parsley until evenly coated.

Notes

• For added nutrition, consider mixing in spinach or cherry tomatoes during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for alternative protein options.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 260g)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 56g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 85mg