Why You’ll Love This Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that’s both vibrant and comforting, you’re going to love this Lemon Chicken Pasta recipe. The bright, zesty flavor of lemon perfectly complements the tender chicken and al dente pasta, creating a delightful harmony in every bite.
I appreciate how quick and easy it’s to whip up on a busy weeknight, yet it feels special enough for company. Plus, the aroma of garlic and fresh herbs fills my kitchen, making it irresistible.
Trust me, once you try it, this recipe will become a staple in your home, bringing smiles around the dinner table.
Ingredients of Lemon Chicken Pasta
When it comes to whipping up a delicious meal, having the right ingredients on hand is half the battle. For this Lemon Chicken Pasta, you’ll want to gather a few key items that come together to create a symphony of flavors. Trust me, when you have everything ready to go, you’ll feel like a kitchen rockstar.
So, let’s plunge into what you’ll need to make this fabulous dish.
Ingredients for Lemon Chicken Pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, cubed
- 2 tablespoons Italian dressing (any flavor)
- 1 pinch salt
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon pepper (or fresh ground black pepper and lemon zest)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- 2 cups vegetable stock
- 1 teaspoon basil
- 1 teaspoon coriander seed
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Parmesan cheese (for serving)
- 1 lb penne rigate (or other short pasta)
- Salt (for pasta water)
Now, let’s chat about some of these ingredients. For the chicken, using fresh, boneless breasts is a game-changer—they cook quickly and stay tender, but if you’re feeling adventurous, try using thighs for a richer flavor.
And speaking of flavor, the Italian dressing is your secret weapon here; it’s like a little flavor bomb that makes the chicken sing. Don’t skip the fresh garlic either—it’s what fills your kitchen with that mouthwatering aroma as it cooks.
And while we’re at it, when it comes to the white wine, go for something you’d actually enjoy sipping on. If you wouldn’t drink it, why put it in your food?
Also, if you’re feeling fancy, a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top before serving can elevate your dish from “just dinner” to “wow, I really nailed it tonight.”
How to Make Lemon Chicken Pasta
Making Lemon Chicken Pasta is like taking a mini-vacation to Italy without leaving your kitchen. The process is straightforward and filled with delightful flavors.
First, let’s get that chicken ready. You’ll want to start with 2 chicken breasts, cubed into bite-sized pieces. Toss those into a bowl with 2 tablespoons of Italian dressing, a pinch of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of lemon pepper. Let it marinate for at least half an hour—trust me, the longer you let it soak up those flavors, the more delicious it will be.
While that’s happening, go ahead and bring a pot of salted water to a boil. When it’s bubbling away, add 1 pound of penne rigate (or whatever short pasta you prefer). Cook it about three-quarters of the way—remember, we want it a bit al dente since it will continue to cook later. When it’s done, reserve a cup or two of that pasta water (you’ll thank me later), then drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
Now, let’s work on that heavenly sauce. In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil. Add in 1 small finely chopped onion and 4 minced garlic cloves, seasoning them with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Sauté this aromatic duo until the onions are just translucent—oh, the smell is divine.
Then, add the zest of 1 lemon, letting it mingle with the onions and garlic for a minute. Next, add the marinated chicken into the skillet, browning it on all sides. This is where things really start to get exciting. Once the chicken is golden, sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of flour and whisk it all together. This is your secret to a creamy sauce.
To deglaze the pan, pour in 1/4 cup of dry white wine, whisking it in to dissolve the flour. Then, add 2 cups of vegetable stock along with 1 teaspoon each of basil and coriander seed. Bring it all to a boil and let it thicken up a bit.
Finally, it’s time to bring everything together. Pour that luscious sauce over the reserved pasta, stirring to coat every noodle. If it seems too thick, don’t panic—just add a bit of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Let it simmer on medium-low heat for a few minutes so the pasta can soak in all that flavor. Just before serving, squeeze the juice of 1 lemon over the dish and sprinkle generously with parmesan cheese.
And there you have it—your very own Lemon Chicken Pasta! It’s cozy, comforting, and just a bit fancy, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself after a long day. Who knew dinner could feel this good?
Lemon Chicken Pasta Substitutions & Variations
While the classic Lemon Chicken Pasta recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can explore to suit your taste or dietary needs.
For a lighter option, try using grilled shrimp or tofu instead of chicken. If you’re gluten-free, swap the penne for gluten-free pasta. You can also switch the vegetable stock for chicken stock for added flavor.
For a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream. Finally, feel free to toss in your favorite veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrients and color.
The possibilities are endless—get creative!
Additional Tips & Notes
Exploring substitutions and variations can enhance your Lemon Chicken Pasta experience, but there are also some helpful tips to guarantee it turns out perfectly every time.
First, always marinate the chicken for at least half an hour to maximize flavor.
When cooking the pasta, remember to save some water for later; it’s key to adjusting sauce consistency.
Keep an eye on the sauce as it thickens—don’t let it get too thick!
Finally, a fresh squeeze of lemon juice right before serving brightens the dish.
Trust me, these little touches make all the difference in creating a delightful meal!