Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe: A Simple, Flavorful Dish That Hits All the Right Notes

If you’re looking for a dish that’s easy to make, bursting with flavor, and can be prepared in less than 30 minutes, then this Lemon Chicken Pasta is exactly what you need! It’s the kind of recipe that comes together quickly but still leaves a lasting impression.

The tender chicken, the creamy lemon sauce, and the perfectly cooked pasta come together in a way that feels both light and satisfying—making it perfect for any night of the week.

I can’t even count how many times I’ve made this dish. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or I’ve got friends coming over for a casual dinner, this recipe never fails. Every time I make it, I get asked for the recipe, and it’s always met with smiles and empty plates. Plus, it’s a wonderful meal to enjoy with your loved ones while chatting around the dinner table, which is always a bonus.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Chicken Pasta

• Quick & Easy: It’s ready in just about 30 minutes, so it’s perfect for when you don’t have a lot of time but still want to eat something hearty and delicious.
• Flavorful: The combination of fresh lemon, garlic, and cream creates a sauce that is both zesty and comforting. The chicken brings in a savory richness that balances everything beautifully.
• Versatile: You can switch up the pasta to suit your preferences—whether you like fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne. Plus, the sauce is a great base to add in your favorite veggies.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe is not only easy to make, but it also holds up really well in the fridge. It’s just as delicious the next day for lunch or dinner, which makes it a great option for meal prep.

Now, I know you’re probably thinking, “How can something so simple taste this good?” Well, that’s the magic of fresh, simple ingredients coming together in the right way. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be making it again and again!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part about this recipe is that it’s made with ingredients that are simple and easy to find. You don’t need to be running all over town looking for special ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if you prefer dark meat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz pasta (I like fettuccine, but spaghetti or penne works great too)
• Salt, for the pasta water

For the Lemon Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter version)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

These ingredients come together in such a lovely way to create a dish that feels indulgent without being too heavy. The zesty lemon, rich chicken, and creamy sauce will make your taste buds do a happy dance!

How to Make Lemon Chicken Pasta: Step-by-Step

1. Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package directions, usually 8-10 minutes for al dente. Adding salt to the water is crucial—it not only seasons the pasta but also helps it cook better. Once the pasta is done, drain it and set it aside. Be sure to save a little bit of the pasta water (about 1/4 cup) to help loosen up the sauce later if needed.

2. Cook the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, season your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until they are fully cooked and golden brown on the outside. Make sure the chicken is cooked through but still juicy inside. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

After the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside to rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices in and ensures your chicken stays tender. Once it’s rested, slice the chicken into strips or cubes, whichever you prefer.

3. Make the Lemon Sauce

In the same skillet you cooked the chicken in, melt the butter over medium heat. You’ll want to use the leftover bits of chicken in the pan, as that adds flavor to your sauce. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it—you just want to release the lovely garlic aroma without overcooking it.

Now, add the lemon zest and lemon juice to the pan. The bright, fresh citrus scent will hit you immediately, and it’s just amazing! Stir everything together and let it cook for a minute or two, allowing the lemon flavor to infuse the oil and butter.

Next, pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes. This helps the sauce reduce and intensify in flavor. Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.

4. Combine the Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

Now comes the fun part! Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the lemon sauce and toss everything together. The pasta will soak up all that creamy goodness. If the sauce is a little too thick, don’t worry! Just add a bit of the reserved pasta water to thin it out until you reach your desired consistency.

Once the pasta is fully coated in the lemon sauce, add the sliced chicken on top and give everything a gentle toss to combine. You’ll want every bite to have a bit of that tender chicken and creamy, lemony sauce.

5. Garnish and Serve

Plate your Lemon Chicken Pasta and sprinkle it with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. If you love that extra lemon zing, feel free to add a few lemon slices or a little extra zest on top. Then, serve it up and get ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips for Perfect Lemon Chicken Pasta

• Use Fresh Lemon: Fresh lemon zest and juice really make a difference in the flavor. The zest adds a fragrant punch that you just can’t get from bottled lemon juice.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Be sure to cook the chicken just until it’s no longer pink inside. Overcooking it can result in dry, tough chicken. If you’re not sure, a meat thermometer is a great way to check!
• Make it Veggie-Friendly: If you want to sneak some veggies into this dish, try adding spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms. Simply sauté them with the garlic, or toss them in the pasta at the end for a burst of color and nutrition.
• Adjust the Creaminess: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream. It’ll still be creamy but won’t feel as rich.
• Meal Prep: This dish is great for leftovers. Store the pasta and chicken separately in the fridge to keep everything fresh, and you can easily reheat it the next day!

Variations to Try

• Spicy Lemon Chicken Pasta: If you like a little heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes when you cook the garlic. A little kick of spice goes a long way in this dish.
• Lemon Chicken Pasta with Capers: For a more briny, tangy flavor, add a tablespoon of capers to the sauce along with the lemon juice. The capers bring a unique, salty punch that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• Lemon Chicken Pasta with Parmesan: Add some freshly grated Parmesan on top for a bit of extra richness and depth of flavor. A sprinkle of Parmesan can turn this dish into something extra special.
• Lemon Chicken Pasta with Herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano. A handful of fresh basil tossed in just before serving can make this dish even more aromatic.

Why This Lemon Chicken Pasta is My Go-To Recipe

When I’m short on time but want something comforting yet fresh, this Lemon Chicken Pasta is my first choice. It’s so simple to make, but the end result always feels special. Whether I’m feeding my family or hosting a small dinner party, this dish always gets rave reviews. It’s one of those recipes that makes you feel like you’ve really put some effort into cooking, but in reality, it’s quick and straightforward.

This dish is light but filling, with just the right balance of flavors. It’s creamy but not too heavy, and the freshness from the lemon cuts through the richness in a way that keeps it feeling light and satisfying. Plus, I love that it’s customizable. You can make it spicier, add veggies, or even switch up the pasta for something different. It’s a recipe that’s always open to new ideas.