If you love pasta dishes with a perfect balance of bright, zesty flavor and rich, comforting creaminess, then this Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe is going to become your new favorite. Picture tender chicken breasts seared to golden perfection, enveloped in a luscious sauce bursting with fresh lemon juice, garlic, and a hint of Parmesan, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a dish that feels both indulgent and refreshingly vibrant, making every bite a delightful experience you’ll want to share with your closest friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but packed with purposeful flavor and texture to create the magic of this dish. From the juicy chicken breasts to the zesty lemon and creamy Parmesan, each element plays a crucial part in making this recipe sing.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, juicy and tender when cooked just right.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Perfect for searing the chicken to a beautiful golden crust.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all other flavors.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts the savory garlic notes without overwhelming the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds subtle depth and warmth to the chicken seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional): A herby note that pairs wonderfully with lemon and garlic.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and a silky texture to the sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic provides the iconic punch that defines this recipe’s flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luxurious creamy base for the sauce.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth): Lightens and balances the cream, adding savory depth.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Bursts with bright citrus oils that elevate the entire dish.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon): Infuses the sauce with refreshing acidity and tang.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste): Seasons the sauce perfectly to your liking.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste): For just the right amount of gentle heat.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce, adding nuttiness and richness.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Brings a fresh, vibrant contrast in color and flavor.
- 8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti (or pasta of your choice): The comforting vehicle that carries the sauce and chicken to your mouth.
- Salt for pasta water: Enhances the pasta’s natural flavor while it cooks.
How to Make Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook it according to the package directions until perfectly al dente. Draining it well but keeping about half a cup of the pasta water aside is a little trick that helps if you need to loosen up your sauce later.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
While your pasta cooks, get your chicken ready by seasoning both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of dried thyme for an optional herbal lift. This seasoning mix ensures every bite of chicken is flavorful and aromatic.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side, until they develop a golden brown crust and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Then, remove them from the pan and let them rest—resting keeps the juices locked in for juicy chicken slices later.
Step 4: Create the Sauce Base
In the same skillet, melt two tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until it becomes fragrant without turning bitter—that garlicky aroma is a sign your sauce is starting to shine.
Step 5: Simmer the Cream Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring everything together. Let it simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes. This cooking helps the sauce thicken slightly and develop that velvety texture you adore.
Step 6: Add Lemon and Season
Now for the exciting burst of flavor: stir in the fresh lemon zest and lemon juice along with salt and black pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes so these bright flavors beautifully infuse the creamy base.
Step 7: Slice the Chicken
Slice your rested chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. This way, every forkful can carry the perfect bite of tender chicken coated in luscious sauce.
Step 8: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add your cooked pasta directly to the skillet with the sauce, tossing everything gently to combine. If the sauce feels too thick, a splash of that reserved pasta water will loosen it just right, making sure every strand or noodle is deliciously coated.
Step 9: Finish with Parmesan and Chicken
Sprinkle in grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts and enriches the sauce into a creamy delight. Then, nestle in your chicken pieces and give it a final gentle toss so your Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe mixes together perfectly.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Dish your pasta into bowls, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if you like. Ready to savor a meal that feels like a warm hug with a zesty twist?
How to Serve Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley isn’t just for a pop of green—it adds a bright, herby note that refreshes the rich cream sauce and keeps each bite lively. A bit more grated Parmesan sprinkled on top enhances the cheesy goodness and makes the dish look irresistible.
Side Dishes
Pair this creamy pasta with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. The freshness and crunch of these sides balance the richness and make the meal complete in both flavor and textures.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this dish in deep pasta bowls or even mason jars for casual gatherings. Drizzle a little extra olive oil and scatter lemon zest over the top just before serving for an elegant, restaurant-quality touch that’ll impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, giving you a quick and delicious meal ready to reheat.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but the pasta texture may soften a bit upon thawing. If you choose to freeze, put the pasta and sauce in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce’s creamy texture without drying out the pasta or chicken.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine or spaghetti work great, any pasta shape you prefer will work. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream substitute, and use vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast to keep the cheesy flavor without dairy.
What can I add if I like more vegetables in my pasta?
Feel free to toss in sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms when making the sauce to add color, nutrition, and extra flavor.
How do I get the chicken perfectly cooked without drying it out?
Cooking the chicken over medium heat until golden and using a meat thermometer to reach 165°F (74°C) ensures it stays juicy. Letting the chicken rest before slicing keeps all those juices inside.
Can I prepare this meal for a crowd?
Definitely! Simply scale up the ingredient quantities and use a large pan or two skillets to cook the chicken and sauce. It’s a great dish to wow guests because it’s both comforting and bright.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a pasta dish that brings together creamy comfort and vibrant lemon freshness, this Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and brighten your dinner table. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal but special enough to impress company. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it again and again!
Print
Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta is a delicious and comforting dish featuring tender, seasoned chicken breasts cooked to perfection and served over perfectly al dente fettuccine. The creamy sauce made with heavy cream, butter, garlic, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese adds a zesty richness that brightens the whole meal, making it perfect for a quick yet impressive weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Pasta and Garnish
- 8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti (or pasta of your choice)
- Salt for pasta water
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then set the pasta aside.
- Season the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme if using. This will build the flavor base for the dish.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is reached. Remove from the skillet and allow to rest briefly.
- Make the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned, to release its flavor into the butter.
- Add Cream and Broth: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Flavor the Sauce: Stir in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Continue simmering the sauce for another 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors together.
- Slice the Chicken: Slice the rested chicken breasts into thin strips or bite-sized pieces for easy mixing with the pasta and sauce.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss to combine. Add some reserved pasta water as needed to help loosen and coat the pasta beautifully.
- Add Cheese and Chicken: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Then, add the sliced chicken and toss gently to combine all components evenly.
- Serve: Plate the creamy lemon garlic chicken pasta in serving bowls. Garnish with the freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately for best taste and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright and tangy flavor.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency as needed.
- Chicken breasts can be substituted with thighs if preferred, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
- For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a creamy non-dairy alternative.
- Parmesan cheese can be freshly grated for best melting and flavor impact.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
