This easy Lemon Chicken Pasta recipe is a delightful dish that’s bright, fresh, and ready in less than 30 minutes. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this meal brings together tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and zesty flavors that will impress your family and friends. With its simplicity and tasty profile, it’s sure to become a go-to in your cooking repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of lemon juice, garlic, and parmesan creates a deliciously tangy flavor that enhances the chicken and pasta.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily switch out the vegetables or pasta to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Healthier Option: Packed with lean protein from chicken and fresh veggies, this dish is a nutritious choice without sacrificing taste.
- Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the zucchini and yellow squash make this dish visually appealing for any occasion.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you need for this Lemon Chicken Pasta recipe.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Cooking spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife for chopping
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: A must-have for sautéing chicken and vegetables evenly, ensuring they cook through perfectly.
- Pot for boiling pasta: Properly sized pots help cook pasta without overcrowding, resulting in better texture.
- Cooking spoon: Essential for stirring ingredients together smoothly, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
Ingredients
This easy Lemon Chicken Pasta recipe is bright and fresh and ready in less than 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 16 ounces mini farfalle pasta (454g), or your favorite bite-size pasta
– 2-3 boneless skinless chicken breasts
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder (divided)
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (divided)
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 3 Tablespoons olive oil (divided)
– 1 zucchini (chopped)
– 1 yellow squash (chopped)
– 3 cloves garlic (minced)
– 4 Tablespoons butter (57g)
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (60g)
– 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (95g)
– 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley (15g), chopped
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Lemon Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Season chicken on both sides with salt, pepper, lemon zest, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning, and onion powder.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, add seasoned chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 3–5 minutes on each side until cooked through.
- Remove chicken from skillet and tent with foil to keep warm while it rests.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
- Add another tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet.
- Once hot, add chopped zucchini and yellow squash. Season with salt, pepper, remaining garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Cook on medium-high heat for about 2 minutes until slightly softened.
- Add minced garlic to the pan; cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
- Add the cooked pasta back into the skillet along with butter and fresh lemon juice.
- Toss everything together until well combined and butter has melted.
- Sprinkle parmesan cheese over the mixture; toss again to combine thoroughly.
- Chop the reserved chicken into bite-sized pieces and return it to the pan.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve garnished with fresh parsley and additional parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your flavorful Lemon Chicken Pasta!
How to Serve Lemon Chicken Pasta
Lemon Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors and presentation. Here are some serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
- Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes dressed in a lemon vinaigrette complements the zesty pasta.
- Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons provide a rich contrast to the bright lemon flavors.
Add a Touch of Protein
- Grilled Shrimp: Grilled shrimp can add an extra layer of flavor and protein, making your meal heartier.
- Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado slices on top of your pasta add richness and healthy fats.
Enhance with Extra Garnishes
- Fresh Basil or Mint: Adding fresh herbs not only enhances the visual appeal but also boosts the flavor profile of the dish.
- Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side for those who love a little extra tang.
How to Perfect Lemon Chicken Pasta
To achieve the best results with your Lemon Chicken Pasta, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your dish.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken, vegetables, and herbs will elevate the flavor significantly.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook pasta until al dente so it holds its shape and texture well in the dish.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice based on your preference for acidity.
- Make It Ahead: Lemon Chicken Pasta can be made ahead of time. Just reheat gently before serving to maintain freshness.
- Experiment with Cheese: While parmesan is classic, try adding feta or goat cheese for a different flavor twist.
Best Side Dishes for Lemon Chicken Pasta
Pairing side dishes with Lemon Chicken Pasta can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds color and nutrients without overpowering the main dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted bell peppers, carrots, and onions complements the pasta’s flavors beautifully.
- Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction offer a refreshing bite.
- Quinoa Salad: A lemon-infused quinoa salad can echo the citrus notes in your pasta while adding texture.
- Coleslaw: A light coleslaw provides crunch and balances out the richness of the pasta dish.
- Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad offers sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Lemon Chicken Pasta, there are a few common mistakes that can impact the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your pasta turns out perfectly.
Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the pasta for too long can make it mushy. Always follow package instructions and aim for al dente, as it will continue to cook when combined with the other ingredients.
Neglecting Seasoning the Chicken: Skipping seasoning can lead to bland chicken. Ensure you season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and lemon zest to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
Using Low-Quality Olive Oil: Poor-quality oil can affect taste. Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for sautéing; it adds richness and depth to the Lemon Chicken Pasta.
Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ingredients such as garlic and parsley elevate your dish. Opt for fresh over dried whenever possible to maximize flavor.
Not Letting Chicken Rest: Cutting into chicken immediately after cooking can dry it out. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain moisture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Lemon Chicken Pasta in an airtight container.
- It will last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.
- Cool completely before refrigerating to prevent moisture buildup inside the container.
Freezing Lemon Chicken Pasta
- Place in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Label containers with dates to keep track of freshness.
Reheating Lemon Chicken Pasta
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place pasta in a microwave-safe bowl. Add a splash of water or broth, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a little olive oil or butter. Stir in pasta and cook until heated thoroughly, adding more liquid if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lemon Chicken Pasta?
Lemon Chicken Pasta is a bright and flavorful dish made with chicken breast, pasta, fresh vegetables, lemon juice, and parmesan cheese. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes! While this recipe uses mini farfalle pasta, you can substitute any bite-size pasta you prefer, such as penne or rotini.
How do I customize my Lemon Chicken Pasta?
Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach or swap out chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
Is this Lemon Chicken Pasta healthy?
This recipe is balanced with lean protein from chicken and fiber from vegetables. You can further lighten it by reducing the amount of butter or cheese if desired.
Can I make this Lemon Chicken Pasta ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare all components ahead of time and combine them just before serving for fresh flavors.
Final Thoughts
This easy Lemon Chicken Pasta recipe is not only quick but also versatile enough for any occasion. With its bright flavors and simple ingredients, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins for a personal touch. Give it a try today!
Lemon Chicken Pasta
Lemon Chicken Pasta is a vibrant and delicious meal that comes together in just under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special gatherings. This dish features tender chicken breasts, fresh vegetables like zucchini and yellow squash, and a zesty lemon-garlic sauce that bursts with flavor. Topped with freshly grated parmesan cheese and garnished with parsley, this pasta dish not only tastes great but also looks impressive on any table. Perfectly balanced between healthy and satisfying, Lemon Chicken Pasta is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- Mini farfalle pasta (or your favorite bite-size pasta)
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Olive oil
- Zucchini
- Yellow squash
- Garlic (minced and powder)
- Fresh lemon juice and zest
- Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, lemon zest, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and onion powder. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat; cook chicken for 3–5 minutes on each side until cooked through. Remove from skillet and keep warm.
- In the same skillet, add more olive oil and cook chopped zucchini and yellow squash until slightly softened. Stir in minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add cooked pasta back to the skillet with butter and lemon juice; toss to combine. Add parmesan cheese and chopped chicken pieces; mix well.
- Serve garnished with fresh parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg