If you are craving a dish that perfectly balances bright citrus notes with luscious creaminess, you simply must try this Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe. It’s the kind of meal that makes your whole kitchen smell incredible and comes together quickly without sacrificing any flavor. Tender chicken, silky sauce, and a zing of fresh lemon come together in a bowl of comforting pasta bliss that’s sure to become one of your go-to dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may seem simple, but each plays a crucial role in building the vibrant flavors and comforting textures of this Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe. From the fragrant garlic to the zingy lemon zest, every component adds something special.
- Olive Oil (1-2 Tablespoons): The perfect base for sautéing and bringing out the richness of the chicken.
- Butter (1 Tablespoon): Adds a silky texture and depth to your sauce that makes it irresistibly creamy.
- Onion (finely diced, 1): Provides a subtle sweetness and aromatic foundation.
- Chicken Breast (1 lb., cubed): Tender and protein-packed, it soaks up all the delicious flavors.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning both chicken and pasta perfectly.
- Pepper (1 teaspoon): Adds a light kick and balances the dish beautifully.
- Red Pepper Flakes (½-1 teaspoon): Give just the right hint of spice without overpowering the lemon.
- Garlic Cloves (3, finely minced): Infuses the dish with its unmistakable, savory aroma.
- Chicken Broth (1 cup): Creates a flavorful base for your creamy sauce.
- Heavy Cream or Half-n-Half (1 ½ cups): The heart of the creaminess that coats every bite.
- Lemon Zest (from 1 lemon): Adds bright citrus oils that enhance the lemon flavor subtly.
- Lemon Juice (â…“ cup): The bold, refreshing acidity that wakes up the entire dish.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (½ cup): Adds a nutty, salty punch to finish off the sauce.
- Fresh Basil (cut into ribbons or torn): Provides a fragrant, herbaceous lift for a fresh finish.
- Pasta (1 lb.): Choose your favorite type to soak up the luscious sauce.
How to Make Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of water with a generous pinch of salt. This is your secret weapon for perfectly seasoned pasta. Cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente—just tender but still offering a little bite. Drain and set aside, saving a splash of pasta water if you want to loosen the sauce later.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Chicken
While the water is heating, melt butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for about 5 to 6 minutes until soft and fragrant. Then, crank the heat up to medium-high and add the cubed chicken breasts, sautéing for about 7 to 8 minutes until golden and cooked through. Add the garlic and sauté for another minute—watch carefully so it doesn’t burn—then season the mix with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes for a subtle, warming heat.
Step 3: Build the Creamy Lemon Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream or half-n-half, stirring gently as the sauce begins to bubble and thicken. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to develop all those rich, comforting flavors. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest, tasting as you go. If you want to amp up the citrus punch, don’t hesitate to add a bit more zest. Adjust seasonings with salt if needed—this sauce is the heart of your Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe!
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Toss your cooked pasta in the skillet with the creamy lemon chicken sauce so every strand or piece is generously coated in that luscious mixture. Finish by sprinkling freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top and scattering fresh basil ribbons over the whole dish. This not only adds a pop of color but layers in a delicate herbal brightness that takes the recipe to the next level.
How to Serve Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra Parmesan and freshly torn basil leaves makes for a stunning presentation and adds fresh flavor and texture contrast. A light drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a few thin lemon slices on top can also add visual appeal and a burst of extra freshness.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to offset the creamy richness. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans provide a nice crunch and a pop of color on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls, each garnished with a basil ribbon and lemon twist. Or for a rustic family-style feel, pile it high on a large serving platter, allowing everyone to help themselves. Adding a lemon wedge on the side lets guests dial in their preferred level of tartness too.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, your Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for quick lunches or next-day dinners.
Freezing
While the sauce is delicious fresh, freezing can alter the texture of creamy dishes. If you want to freeze leftovers, consider storing the pasta and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers. It should keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from breaking. If it seems too thick, add a bit of milk or chicken broth to regain that signature creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving without stirring as it can cause uneven heating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! This Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe works wonderfully with fettuccine, penne, or even farfalle. Just choose your favorite pasta shape that holds onto the sauce well.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, half-and-half works perfectly. You can also try a mixture of milk and cream cheese for added creaminess, but be mindful it might change the flavor slightly.
Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
Yes! Swap out the butter for olive oil and use coconut cream or a plant-based cream substitute. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
How do I get the sauce really creamy and smooth?
Use full-fat dairy and be patient when simmering the sauce, letting it thicken naturally. Stirring frequently helps prevent curdling or separation, ensuring that silky texture that makes this Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe so irresistible.
Can I add other vegetables to the dish?
Certainly! Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or peas can be tossed in right before finishing the sauce for more color, nutrients, and flavor variations.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. The perfect balance of tangy lemon and rich cream, tender chicken, and fresh herbs makes every bite feel like a little celebration. I can’t wait for you to try it and add it to your recipe collection for easy weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends and family.
Print
Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
This Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta is a luscious and comforting dish featuring tender chicken breast sautéed with onions and garlic, simmered in a rich lemon-infused cream sauce, and perfectly tossed with pasta. Fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese add aromatic and savory notes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner that’s both elegant and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Protein & Dairy
- 1 lb. Chicken Breast (about 2–3 breasts, cubed)
- 1 1/2 cups Heavy Cream or Half-n-Half
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
- 1 Tablespoon Butter
Produce & Aromatics
- 1 Onion (finely diced)
- 3 Garlic Cloves (finely minced)
- Lemon Zest (from one lemon)
- 1/3 cup Lemon Juice
- Fresh Basil (cut into ribbons or torn)
Pantry
- 1–2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Pepper
- 1/2–1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes
- 1 cup Chicken Broth
- 1 lb. Pasta
Instructions
- Boil Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add a generous amount of salt to season the water. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Sauté Onion and Chicken: While the water heats, heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for 5-6 minutes until softened. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the cubed chicken breast; sauté for 7-8 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and beginning to brown.
- Add Garlic and Seasonings: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, watching closely to prevent burning. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.
- Create Lemon Cream Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream or half-n-half. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 5 minutes to thicken slightly and meld the flavors. Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest, adding extra zest if you prefer a brighter lemon flavor. Taste and adjust salt as needed.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the creamy lemon chicken sauce, ensuring the pasta is well coated and heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve the pasta topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil ribbons for a fragrant and delicious finish.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your spice preference or omit if sensitive to heat.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best bright flavor; bottled lemon juice can be used but the freshness level will decrease.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a light green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
