If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bright, zesty flavor wrapped in a luxuriously smooth sauce, then this Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe is just what you need to make tonight. It brings together tender chicken, a vibrant lemony cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta in a harmony that feels both comforting and refreshingly light. Trust me, this recipe will quickly become a go-to for busy weeknights or anytime you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simple list fool you—each ingredient plays a vital role in building the rich flavors and delightful textures of this dish. From the silky cream to the punchy lemon juice and the tender chicken, every component combines to create something truly special.
- Olive Oil (1-2 Tablespoons): Adds a fruity richness and helps sauté your ingredients evenly without overpowering the flavors.
- Butter (1 Tablespoon): Offers a creamy depth and helps balance the acidity of the lemon with its subtle sweetness.
- Onion, finely diced (1): Builds an aromatic base, giving sweetness and texture as it softens during cooking.
- Chicken Breast, cubed (1 lb.): The heart of the dish, tender and juicy when cooked perfectly, providing satisfying protein.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning, it enhances every other ingredient’s natural flavors.
- Pepper (1 teaspoon): Gives a gentle heat and earthiness to balance the creaminess.
- Red Pepper Flakes (1/2-1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle kick to keep the flavors lively without overwhelming.
- Garlic Cloves, finely minced (3): Brings a fragrant warmth and sharpness that deepens the sauce’s complexity.
- Chicken Broth (1 cup): Provides a savory base to the sauce, keeping it flavorful and moist.
- Heavy Cream or Half-n-Half (1 1/2 cups): Creates the luscious, velvety texture that makes this pasta feel indulgent yet balanced.
- Lemon Zest (from one lemon): Introduces bright citrus oils that elevate the sauce’s freshness.
- Lemon Juice (1/3 cup): The star of the dish that delivers that unmistakable tang and brightness.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup): Offers a salty, nutty finish that melts beautifully into the sauce.
- Fresh Basil, torn or cut into ribbons: Adds a pop of herbal brightness and color as the perfect garnish.
- Pasta (1 lb.): Choose your favorite type to soak up all the creamy lemon goodness; penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti all work wonderfully.
How to Make Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Perfectly
First things first, get a large pot of salted water boiling. The salt doesn’t just flavor the pasta, it’s key to bringing out the best in the noodles themselves. Cook your pasta according to the package instructions until it’s tender but still has a slight bite. Drain it well but don’t rinse—this helps the sauce cling perfectly to every strand or piece of pasta.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Chicken
While the water is heating, warm your butter and olive oil in a large skillet. The combo ensures a rich flavor base and prevents the butter from burning. Add your finely diced onion and cook it slowly until translucent and soft, about 5 to 6 minutes. This sweetness is crucial for balancing the zest from the lemon. Then crank up the heat slightly and toss in the cubed chicken breasts, stirring until beautifully golden and cooked through, roughly 7 to 8 minutes.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Seasonings
Now, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for just about a minute. Garlic burns fast, so keep a close eye. Immediately season the mixture with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. This seasoning layer helps build the depth in your sauce and gives a gentle warmth that complements the lemon’s acidity.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Lemon Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream (or half-n-half if you want a lighter twist). Let this simmer softly for about five minutes; this allows the sauce to thicken just right. Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest — this is where the bright, tangy magic happens. Taste the sauce and adjust salt if needed to make sure every element sings together.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Finally, toss the hot pasta directly into your skillet and stir so every piece is generously coated with that luscious lemon cream sauce. The heat helps everything meld together beautifully. Finish by sprinkling freshly grated Parmesan over the top, giving you that irresistible savory touch, and scatter fresh basil ribbons for a fragrant, colorful finish.
How to Serve Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe look as good as it tastes, fresh basil is a must. It adds a lovely herbal note and green pop that contrasts the creamy pale sauce. You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan or a little cracked black pepper on top for an elegant finishing touch.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a light side salad featuring crisp greens, like arugula or baby spinach, tossed with a simple vinaigrette. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, steamed or roasted asparagus or green beans make a fresh, vibrant accompaniment.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve this pasta in shallow bowls, garnished with a lemon twist and fresh basil sprigs. You could also sprinkle toasted pine nuts for a little crunch or even add a drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top to enhance richness visually and flavor-wise. Presentation is all about inviting those you love to dive in with excitement!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, though the pasta may soak up a bit of the sauce as it rests, so a little extra liquid or cream added at reheating helps freshen it up.
Freezing
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze this dish if necessary. Place the cooled pasta in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When thawing, do so overnight in the fridge for best results to maintain that creamy texture without separation.
Reheating
Reheat your leftover Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of cream, milk, or chicken broth as needed to loosen the sauce and keep it silky. Avoid microwaving at high heat to preserve the delicate creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! This Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe works well with many pasta shapes. Whether penne, fettuccine, or even farfalle, all will soak up the sauce beautifully and offer slightly different textures to enjoy.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
Yes! Swap out the heavy cream for half-n-half or even Greek yogurt (added off heat to prevent curdling). Using skinless chicken breast and less cheese also helps reduce richness without sacrificing flavor.
Can I prepare parts of the recipe in advance?
Definitely. You can dice the chicken and onions ahead of time, and even cook the pasta in advance. Keep them separate until you’re ready to combine with the sauce for the freshest taste.
What if I don’t have fresh basil? Can I substitute?
If basil isn’t on hand, fresh parsley or even a sprinkle of dried Italian herbs can add a lovely herbal note, though fresh basil really offers that signature bright touch to this recipe.
How can I add more lemon flavor without it becoming too sour?
Using lemon zest adds a concentrated citrus aroma without too much acidity. You can gradually add more zest or a tiny extra splash of lemon juice, tasting as you go to find the perfect balance for your palate.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend this Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe enough for anyone who loves comfort food with a fresh twist. It’s such an easy meal to whip up that feels indulgent without a fuss. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight or a casual get-together, this dish promises to delight with every creamy, zesty bite. Go ahead—give it a try and watch it become a new favorite in your kitchen!
Print
Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta is a quick and flavorful dish that combines tender sautéed chicken with a luscious lemon-infused cream sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a zesty and comforting meal that can be prepared in just 25 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce
- 1–2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 Tablespoon Butter
- 1 Onion, finely diced
- 1 lb. Chicken Breast (about 2–3 breasts), cubed
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Pepper
- 1/2–1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes
- 3 Garlic Cloves, finely minced
- 1 cup Chicken Broth
- 1 1/2 cups Heavy Cream or Half-n-Half
- Zest of 1 Lemon
- 1/3 cup Lemon Juice
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
- Fresh Basil, cut into ribbons or torn
Pasta
- 1 lb. Pasta (your choice, e.g. penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add a generous amount of salt to season the water thoroughly. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Sauté Aromatics and Chicken: While the water heats, heat the butter and olive oil together in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for 5-6 minutes until softened and translucent. Increase heat to medium-high and add the cubed chicken breast pieces. Cook for about 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned.
- Add Garlic and Seasonings: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, taking care not to burn it. Then season the mixture with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes according to your taste preferences.
- Make Lemon Cream Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream or half-n-half. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 5 minutes to thicken slightly and let the flavors meld. Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest; add more lemon zest if you prefer a stronger lemon flavor. Taste the sauce and adjust salt as needed.
- Toss and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat the noodles with the creamy lemon chicken sauce. Remove from heat and sprinkle the dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil ribbons. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest for the best citrus flavor.
- You can substitute half-n-half for heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- The red pepper flakes add a mild heat—adjust according to your spice preference or omit if desired.
- Any pasta shape works well; penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti are all great choices.
- Fresh basil adds a lovely herbal note, but you can substitute with parsley if preferred.
- To make it gluten-free, choose a gluten-free pasta variety.
