Why Make This Recipe

Lemon Chicken Pasta is a delightfully fresh and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, bright lemon flavor, and bite-sized pasta. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a weeknight meal. The mix of vegetables adds a healthy touch, making it a well-rounded dish packed with flavor.

How to Make Lemon Chicken Pasta

Ingredients:

16 oz (454 g) mini farfalle pasta, or any bite-size pasta
2–3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon garlic powder, divided
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, divided
½ teaspoon onion powder
3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 zucchini, chopped
1 yellow squash, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 tablespoons butter (57 g)
¼ cup fresh lemon juice (60 g)
1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (95 g)
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (15 g)

Directions:

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Season and Cook the Chicken: Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, lemon zest, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning, and onion powder. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for 3–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped zucchini and yellow squash. Season with salt, pepper, remaining ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning. Cook for about 2 minutes, then add minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with butter and lemon juice. Toss until the butter melts and everything is evenly coated. Stir in the parmesan cheese and toss to combine.
Add Chicken and Finish: Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the pan. Toss well to combine all ingredients.
Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and extra parmesan cheese before serving.

How to Serve Lemon Chicken Pasta

Serve Lemon Chicken Pasta warm, directly from the skillet, for an inviting presentation. It goes well as a stand-alone meal or with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete dinner.

How to Store Lemon Chicken Pasta

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be good for about 3-4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or a little olive oil to keep the pasta from drying out.

Tips to Make Lemon Chicken Pasta

To enhance the lemon flavor, feel free to add more lemon zest or a little more lemon juice according to your taste.
For a creamier sauce, you can add a splash of heavy cream when combining the pasta and other ingredients.
Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.

Variation

Try substituting different vegetables based on what you have on hand. Bell peppers, spinach, or asparagus can all be great alternatives. You can also use shrimp instead of chicken for a different protein option.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! You can use any pasta you like, such as penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Lemon Chicken Pasta makes a great meal prep option. Just store the components separately and combine them when you’re ready to eat.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! You can omit the chicken and use tofu or chickpeas as a protein source instead, along with a variety of vegetables.

Conclusion

Lemon Chicken Pasta is a delicious recipe that combines fresh ingredients for a mouthwatering experience. For an alternative take on this dish, check out this Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta. Whether you are trying it for the first time or adding it to your family favorites, this dish is sure to impress!