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Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta

A comforting creamy lemon chicken pasta that is quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced into cutlets
  • 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tsp. lemon zest
  • 2 tsp. dried oregano
  • 1 1/2 tsp. smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp. garlic powder
  • 1 tsp. onion powder
  • 3/4 tsp. kosher salt
  • 3/4 tsp. black pepper
  • 1 lb. pasta of choice (such as bucatini or spaghetti)
  • 1 Tbsp. butter
  • 1 1/2 cups finely chopped yellow onion
  • 6 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup chicken broth
  • 3/4 tsp. kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp. black pepper
  • 1/3 cup finely chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish)
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese (plus more for garnish)
  • 1 Tbsp. lemon zest plus 3 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
  • Fresh baby spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, roasted broccoli, or sautéed mushrooms (for added flavor)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil.
  2. Toss the chicken with olive oil, lemon zest, and spices until well coated.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 7 to 10 minutes. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
  4. Cook the pasta just shy of al dente, reserving a cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
  5. Add butter to the same skillet and cook the onion until softened, about 4 to 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  6. Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, salt, and black pepper. Simmer and thicken for about 5 to 6 minutes.
  7. Stir in parsley, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
  8. Add the pasta and ½ cup of reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss together until coated, adding more pasta water as needed.
  9. Slice the chicken and place it on top of the pasta. Garnish with chopped parsley, extra Parmesan, black pepper, and fresh lemon juice before serving.

Notes

For added flavor, mix in sautéed mushrooms, roasted broccoli, or fresh spinach. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition