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Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta

Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta is a rich yet fresh dish made with tender chicken, lemon zest, and a silky cream sauce.
Ready in under 45 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Serve with your favorite pasta for a comforting, flavorful meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian-inspired

Ingredients
  

Lemon-Herb Chicken

  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tsp lemon zest
  • 2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 3/4 tsp kosher salt
  • 3/4 tsp black pepper

Creamy Lemon Pasta

  • 1 lb pasta spaghetti, fettuccine, or similar
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 1/2 cups finely chopped yellow onion
  • 6 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup chicken broth
  • 3/4 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/3 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest
  • 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice

Optional Add-ins

  • Spinach or arugula
  • Sun-dried tomatoes
  • Roasted broccoli
  • Sautéed mushrooms

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Toss chicken with olive oil, lemon zest, and spices until evenly coated.
  • Cook chicken in a skillet over medium heat until golden and fully cooked. Set aside.
  • Cook pasta until slightly under al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain.
  • In the same pan, melt butter and sauté onion until soft. Add garlic and cook briefly.
  • Add cream, broth, salt, and pepper. Simmer until slightly thickened.
  • Stir in parsley, Parmesan, lemon zest, and juice.
  • Add pasta and some reserved water. Toss until coated in a glossy sauce.
  • Slice chicken and place on top. Garnish and serve.

Notes

  • Swap heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
  • Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
  • Add chili flakes for a spicy kick.