Description
This Chicken with Lemon Cream Pasta is a bright and creamy dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Tender chicken, silky pasta, and a zesty lemon cream sauce come together for a meal that’s both comforting and refreshing. Serve with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete dining experience
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Lemon Cream Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Remove from skillet and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Make the Lemon Cream Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth.
- Add lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Combine and Serve:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly in the sauce.
- Slice the chicken and arrange it over the pasta.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- Add sautéed spinach or asparagus for extra vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Main Course