Easy Lemon Chicken Recipe With Pasta: A Quick And Tangy One-pot Meal For Busy Weeknights
What To Know
- The tantalizing aroma of lemon zest, the succulent taste of chicken, and the comforting warmth of pasta come together in a symphony of flavors in this Lemon Chicken with Pasta recipe.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
- Serve the Lemon Chicken with Pasta with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
The tantalizing aroma of lemon zest, the succulent taste of chicken, and the comforting warmth of pasta come together in a symphony of flavors in this Lemon Chicken with Pasta recipe. This dish is a culinary masterpiece that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. So, get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will transport you to a world of culinary delight.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 pound pasta of your choice, cooked according to package directions
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- In a shallow dish, combine the chicken, olive oil, flour, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Cook the Chicken:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the coated chicken and cook until golden brown on all sides.
3. Make the Lemon Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce:
- Add the lemon sauce to the skillet with the chicken. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
5. Add the Pasta:
- Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Stir to combine.
6. Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Variations:
- Lemon Garlic Chicken with Pasta: Add minced garlic to the lemon sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
- Lemon Herb Chicken with Pasta: Incorporate a variety of fresh herbs, such as basil, oregano, or thyme, into the lemon sauce.
- Lemon Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach: Toss in sun-dried tomatoes and baby spinach leaves for a colorful and flavorful twist.
- Lemon Chicken with Broccoli and Mushrooms: Add steamed broccoli florets and sliced mushrooms to the pasta for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Tips:
- To ensure that the chicken is cooked evenly, use a meat thermometer to check that it has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- For a creamier sauce, use half-and-half or full-fat milk instead of heavy cream.
- If you don’t have fresh parsley on hand, you can substitute dried parsley flakes.
- Serve the Lemon Chicken with Pasta with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Benefits of Lemon Chicken with Pasta:
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of tangy lemon, savory chicken, and comforting pasta creates a flavor profile that is both satisfying and refreshing.
- Nutritious and Balanced: This dish offers a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal.
- Easy to Make: The recipe is straightforward and requires minimal preparation time, making it an ideal option for busy weeknight dinners.
- Versatile: The recipe can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences and dietary restrictions.
“Lemon Chicken with Pasta: A Culinary Delight” – A Review:
“I tried the Lemon Chicken with Pasta recipe and was amazed by the explosion of flavors. The tangy lemon sauce perfectly complemented the succulent chicken and the pasta cooked to al dente perfection. It’s a dish that will definitely become a regular in my kitchen.” – Sarah J.
What You Need to Know
Q: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs as a substitute for chicken breasts. They are a more flavorful cut of chicken and will add richness to the dish.
Q: How can I make the sauce thicker?
A: To thicken the sauce, you can add a cornstarch slurry. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water until smooth. Add the slurry to the simmering sauce and cook for a few minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
Q: What other vegetables can I add to the pasta?
A: You can add a variety of vegetables to the pasta, such as broccoli florets, sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. Simply sauté the vegetables in a pan with a little olive oil until they are tender before adding them to the pasta.