If you are craving a bright, flavorful, and comforting meal, this Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe is about to become your new go-to. It masterfully balances tender chicken with zesty lemon, rich garlic, and parmesan cheese all tossed around perfectly cooked pasta. This dish brings together simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients in a way that feels both light and indulgent. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or craving a cozy solo dinner, this Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe delivers big on flavor without fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting great results with this Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe is all about using simple, quality ingredients that boost each other’s flavors. Each item plays a vital role, from seasoning the chicken perfectly to creating a luscious sauce that clings to every strand of pasta.
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta: Spaghetti works beautifully to absorb the sauce while keeping texture perfect.
- 2 chicken breasts: Halved to ensure quick, even cooking and tender bites.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides depth of flavor to the chicken seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning: Adds a zesty, peppery kick that defines the dish’s bright personality.
- Salt & pepper: Balances flavors and enhances the natural taste of ingredients.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For perfectly searing the chicken to golden perfection.
- 3 tablespoons butter: Creates a rich, silky sauce base when combined with garlic and lemon.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Adds aromatic warmth and savoriness to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice + zest of 1 lemon: These fresh lemon components elevate the dish with citrusy brightness.
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Introduces a subtle herbaceous note that rounds out the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon parsley (chopped): Gives a fresh pop of color and crisp herbal flavor.
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for creamy, salty indulgence.
How to Make Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cooking your pasta al dente according to the package directions. Keep a little of that hot pasta water handy because you’ll use it later to bring your sauce together beautifully.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner pieces that cook quickly and evenly. Season them generously with garlic powder, lemon pepper seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This simple seasoning blend already hints at the fresh, zesty flavors to come.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook each chicken piece for about 5 to 6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through, reaching 165°F internally. Once done, set the chicken aside to rest while you move on to the sauce — that resting time will keep it juicy and tender.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce Base
Remove the skillet from heat briefly to slightly cool it, then return it over medium heat. Add butter and let it melt fully. Stir in the minced garlic, letting it sizzle gently for about 30 seconds until fragrant — this is the aromatic heart of your sauce.
Step 5: Build the Lemon Sauce
Now add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest along with Italian seasoning and chopped parsley to the pan. Pour in two tablespoons of the reserved hot pasta water. This mixture creates a silky, tangy sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta and chicken.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Drain the pasta and add it directly into the skillet with your sauce, taking the pan off the heat to avoid overcooking. This ensures every strand is nicely coated with that vibrant lemony goodness.
Step 7: Finish and Toss
Slice the rested chicken into bite-sized pieces, then add it back to the skillet. Toss everything together until combined and warmed through. Finish by sprinkling the freshly grated parmesan cheese over the top, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately for the best experience.
How to Serve Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
For a beautiful presentation and added flavor, sprinkle extra chopped parsley and a little lemon zest over the top just before serving. A light dusting of more parmesan also enhances the richness if you love cheese!
Side Dishes
This Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli for a well-rounded meal. Garlic bread is also a classic choice for mopping up that luscious lemon sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party or special occasion, serve the pasta in individual bowls garnished with lemon wedges and a small sprig of parsley. You can also plate the chicken slices atop the pasta for a restaurant-style look that impresses without extra effort.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Lemon Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the pasta slightly separate from the chicken if possible, to maintain texture upon reheating.
Freezing
While this dish tastes best freshly made, you can freeze leftovers by placing them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or microwave.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stove over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce, stirring frequently until warmed through. This keeps the pasta tender and prevents the chicken from drying out. Avoid high heat reheating to protect the delicate lemon sauce.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is recommended, linguine, fettuccine, or even penne work well. Choose what you have on hand or prefer — the sauce clings nicely to most pasta shapes.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just swap regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety. The cooking time may vary slightly, so follow package directions carefully.
Can I substitute chicken breasts with another protein?
Definitely! Thinly sliced turkey breast or even firm tofu can work as alternatives. Just keep cooking times in mind to ensure everything is cooked through properly.
What if I don’t have lemon pepper seasoning?
No worries. You can make a quick substitute by mixing freshly ground black pepper with some lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice. It won’t be quite the same but still very flavorful.
How can I make the sauce creamier?
To create a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half in step 5 along with the lemon juice and seasoning. This adds richness without overpowering the fresh lemon flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe is the perfect example of how simple ingredients combined thoughtfully can turn into a spectacular dish. With its bright lemon punch, tender chicken, and comforting pasta, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. I truly hope you give it a try — it’s one of those meals that’s utterly satisfying and easy enough for a weeknight but special enough to share with loved ones.
Print
Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A bright and flavorful Lemon Chicken Pasta featuring tender, pan-seared chicken breasts tossed with al dente spaghetti in a zesty lemon butter sauce enhanced with garlic, Italian seasoning, fresh parsley, and parmesan cheese. This easy stovetop recipe makes a perfect weeknight dinner bursting with fresh citrus and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Protein
- 2 chicken breasts, cut in half lengthwise
Carbohydrates
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta (spaghetti recommended)
Seasonings & Spices
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Oils and Fats
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter
Fresh Ingredients
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped
Dairy
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve some of the hot pasta water before draining as it will be used later in the sauce.
- Prepare the Chicken: Slice each chicken breast lengthwise in half to create thinner pieces. Season both sides with garlic powder, lemon pepper seasoning, and salt & pepper, adjusting salt carefully due to seasoning salt content.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove chicken from skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Prepare the Sauce Base: Remove the skillet from heat momentarily to cool slightly, then return to medium heat. Add butter and let it melt completely.
- Sauté Aromatics: Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Add Flavorings: Mix in lemon juice, lemon zest, Italian seasoning, chopped parsley, and 2 tablespoons of the reserved hot pasta water to create a light lemon butter sauce.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Drain the cooked pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the sauce. Remove from heat to prevent overcooking.
- Combine with Chicken: Slice the cooked chicken into strips and add it back to the skillet with the pasta. Toss everything together to combine well.
- Finish and Serve: Sprinkle the dish with freshly grated parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Reserve pasta water carefully; it helps loosen the sauce and adds some starchiness for better coating.
- Using fresh lemon zest and juice brightens the sauce, so avoid bottled lemon juice if possible.
- Cooking chicken to 165°F ensures safety and juiciness; use a meat thermometer for best results.
- Parsley added at the end keeps its vibrant color and freshness.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
