Lemon Chicken Pasta

There’s something irresistible about a dish that brings together tender chicken and zesty lemon in a delightful pasta. My family has always loved pasta, but ever since I discovered the art of combining it with chicken, it has taken our meals to a whole new level. The Lemon Chicken Pasta has quickly become a family favorite, especially during those busy weeknights when I need something quick yet satisfying. It’s amazing how a few simple ingredients can create such a flavorful dish that feels like a special occasion!

One evening, after a long day, I wanted to whip up something that would please both my kids and my husband. I had some chicken breast ready, and I rummaged through the fridge to find a couple of lemons. Soon enough, I was mixing together a marinade that filled the kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. A little bit of soy sauce, a touch of brown sugar, and a handful of seasonings transformed my ordinary meal into something extraordinary. As I stirred the pasta and tossed it with fresh herbs and parmesan cheese, I couldn’t help but get excited about serving it!

The best part? This dish isn’t just delicious; it’s also quick to make, allowing you to spend more time with your loved ones and less time in the kitchen. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, serving Lemon Chicken Pasta always earns me compliments. It’s a crowd-pleaser, and I’m excited to share how you can make this delightful dish in your own home.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Lemon Chicken Pasta

When it comes to cooking, the ingredients you choose can make all the difference. For Lemon Chicken Pasta, each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a vibrant and delicious dish. From the zesty lemon juice to the tender chicken, these ingredients combine harmoniously to create a flavorful meal that will leave you craving more.

• 1/4 cup olive oil – This adds richness and depth to the marinade, helping to tenderize the chicken.
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce – This brings a savory umami flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice – The star of the dish, this adds brightness and acidity, enhancing the overall flavor.
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic – A fragrant addition that adds depth and warmth to the marinade.
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar – This balances the acidity of the lemon and soy sauce, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a subtle smokiness that elevates the dish to new heights.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Essential for enhancing the flavor of the chicken and pasta.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – For an extra punch of garlic flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder – Adds a sweet and savory note to the marinade.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Provides a gentle heat and enhances overall flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme – Adds an earthy touch that balances the dish.
• 1 pound chicken breast – The main protein source, ensuring a filling meal.
• 1 pound linguine – A classic pasta choice that pairs perfectly with the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – Used for sautéing the chicken in the skillet.
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest – Adds a concentrated lemon flavor that enhances the overall dish.
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice – For tossing with the pasta, providing a fresh burst of flavor.
• 3 green onions – Sliced for garnish and added crunch.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley – Chopped for freshness and color.
• 1/2 cup fresh parmesan cheese – Grated for serving, adding a deliciously creamy finish.

Lemon Chicken Pasta Instructions

Cooking up Lemon Chicken Pasta is an experience filled with flavor and satisfaction. As you dive into these steps, you’ll find that it’s surprisingly easy to create a dish that feels fancy yet comforting. Let’s get started!

1. For the marinade: In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup olive oil, 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce, 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice, 2 teaspoons minced garlic, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme. Whisk everything until well combined, creating a fragrant marinade that will infuse your chicken with flavor.

2. Next, cut the 1 pound chicken breast into strips or bite-sized pieces. Place the chicken into a shallow bowl or ziplock bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s well coated. Refrigerate for at least an hour, or for up to 12 hours if you have the time. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, making the meat tender and flavorful.

3. For the pasta: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest, 3 sliced green onions, and 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley. Stir to combine and set aside.

4. While the chicken is marinating, cook the linguine in a large pot of lightly salted water according to package directions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Pour the lemon mixture over the pasta and toss to ensure every strand is coated in the bright flavors.

5. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken along with the marinade to the skillet. Spread the chicken out into an even layer and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and golden. You’ll know it’s ready when the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink.

6. Once the chicken is cooked, add it along with the marinade over the pasta. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta is well mixed with the savory marinade and tender chicken. The heat from the pasta will help meld all the flavors perfectly.

7. Finally, sprinkle 1/2 cup of grated fresh parmesan cheese over the top. Season with additional salt and pepper if desired. Serve immediately while it’s hot, garnished with more parsley and green onions for visual appeal and extra flavor!

Expert Tips about Lemon Chicken Pasta

To elevate your experience with Lemon Chicken Pasta, here are some expert tips that can help you along the way:

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for the best results.
• Freezing: You can freeze the marinated chicken for up to three months. Just thaw it in the fridge before cooking.
• Pairing: The dish pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the pasta.
• Flavor Enhancements: Consider adding a splash of lemon juice just before serving for an extra bright flavor.
• Cheese Variations: Feel free to substitute parmesan cheese with other types of cheese, such as feta or asiago, for a different taste.

What to Serve With Lemon Chicken Pasta

When it comes to serving Lemon Chicken Pasta, the possibilities are endless! Here are some delicious ideas to complement this vibrant dish:

• Garlic Bread: A warm loaf of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious marinade.
• Green Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing crunch to your meal.
• Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or asparagus can enhance the nutritional value and color of your plate.
• Seasonal Fruits: Serve with a side of seasonal fruits for a sweet and healthy contrast.
• Wine Pairing: Although I cannot recommend specific wines, a light white wine or sparkling water would complement this dish beautifully.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Lemon Chicken Pasta is suitable for everything from a casual weeknight dinner to entertaining guests.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Lemon Chicken Pasta stands out for its incredible blend of flavors and ease of preparation. It’s a dish that brings joy to the dining table, whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy dinner with family. I encourage you to try making it tonight; you won’t be disappointed! Enjoy the delightful taste and the compliments that are sure to follow.

Lemon Chicken Pasta

The ultimate comfort food, Lemon Chicken Pasta is a creamy and zesty dish that is perfect for any occasion! Packed with tender chicken, bright lemon flavors, and parmesan cheese, it's an easy weeknight dinner that you’ll want to make again and again.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Italian

Servings 8 servings

Calories 550 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet
• Whisk
• Mixing Bowl
• Wooden Spoon
• Grater
• Chef's Knife

Ingredients

  

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 pound chicken breast
• 1 pound linguine
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 3 green onions
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley
• 1/2 cup fresh parmesan cheese

Instructions

 

• For the marinade: In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup olive oil, 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce, 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice, 2 teaspoons minced garlic, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme. Whisk everything until well combined.
• Cut the 1 pound chicken breast into strips or bite-sized pieces. Put the chicken into a shallow bowl or ziplock bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken. Refrigerate for at least an hour.
• For the pasta: Combine 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest, 3 sliced green onions, and 1/4 cup fresh parsley in a small bowl. Stir to combine.
• Cook the linguine in a large pot of lightly salted water according to package directions. Drain and return the pasta to the pot. Pour the lemon mixture over the pasta and toss to combine.
• Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and the marinade to the skillet. Spread out into an even layer and cook for 5 to 6 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
• Add the chicken and cooked marinade over the pasta and toss everything together. Add the fresh parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper, if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the marinated chicken for up to three months.
• Pairing: The dish pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables.
• Flavor Enhancements: Consider adding a splash of lemon juice just before serving.
• Cheese Variations: Feel free to substitute parmesan cheese with other types of cheese.

Keyword chicken pasta dishes, Easy Pasta Recipes, Lemon Chicken Pasta, zesty lemon recipes

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Meet Hanna Hart

I am obsessed with the “how” and “why” of cooking. It doesn’t matter if we are roasting a chicken or baking brownies; I am the one double-checking our measurements and cooking times. I love working on every type of cuisine and finding the absolute best method to get the results we want. I treat every recipe with the same level of care and dedication.