Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta

Name: Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 pound chicken breast, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; Salt and pepper to taste; ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Hearty Home Dishes

I love a flavorful and comforting dish, and creamy lemon chicken pasta has quickly become one of my favorites. The vibrant flavors of fresh lemon and savory chicken create a delicious balance that keeps me coming back for more. It's an ideal meal for a busy weeknight when I want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few ingredients, I can whip up a dish that feels both comforting and indulgent, perfect for any occasion or just a cozy night in.

Created by

Sophia Lane

Last updated on 2026-02-01T20:41:36.372Z

When I first made creamy lemon chicken pasta, I was surprised by how quickly it came together. The combination of zesty lemon and creamy sauce coats the pasta beautifully. I remember almost feeling guilty about how easy it was to prepare a meal that tasted so gourmet!

I found that using freshly squeezed lemon juice really elevates the quality of the dish, making the flavors pop. To add depth, I recommend garnishing with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese – it makes a world of difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Zesty bright flavor that wakes up your taste buds
Creamy texture that clings to every strand of pasta
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weekdays

The Magic of Lemon in Pasta Dishes

Lemon adds an unmistakable brightness to dishes, and in creamy lemon chicken pasta, it plays a pivotal role. The acidity of the lemon juice brightens the richness of the heavy cream, creating a perfect balance. When combined with lemon zest, it enhances the overall flavor without making it overwhelmingly tart. Be sure to use fresh lemons for the best results; the zest contains oils that elevate the dish’s aroma and taste to a whole new level.

Ensure you zest the lemon before juicing it; this way, you won't risk losing any of the flavorful zest. If you want to intensify the lemon flavor, consider using a bit of additional zest or a splash of lemon essential oil, if available. However, remember that essential oils are potent, so a drop or two will suffice, keeping the dish smooth and not overly sharp.

Perfecting Your Chicken

Choosing the right cut of chicken is essential for achieving the best texture in your pasta dish. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal because they cook quickly and absorb flavors well. Dice the chicken uniformly to ensure even cooking; pieces should be about 1-inch cubes. This will allow them to achieve a golden-brown color in the skillet while still remaining juicy. If you find the chicken is browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly; it should sizzle gently rather than fry aggressively.

Marinating the chicken briefly in a mixture of olive oil, salt, and pepper before cooking can deepen the flavor. While this may add extra prep time, marinating just 15-30 minutes provides a noticeable difference in taste and juiciness. If you're short on time, tossing the chicken with seasonings right before cooking still enhances the flavor without needing to marinate for too long.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound chicken breast, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 lemon, juiced and zested
Salt and pepper to taste
¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.

Add Garlic and Cream

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Reduce the heat to medium-low, and add the heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir until combined.

Combine with Pasta

Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy lemon sauce. Allow to heat through for about 2 minutes.

Add Parmesan and Serve

Stir in the grated parmesan until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning. Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately.

Pro Tips

For an extra punch of flavor, consider adding spinach or peas during the last few minutes of cooking. They not only add nutrition but also a pop of color!

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

To store any leftover creamy lemon chicken pasta, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat in a skillet. You may need to add a splash of cream or chicken broth to rehydrate and restore its creamy consistency, as the sauce tends to thicken when chilled.

Freezing is an option, but the cream can change texture when thawed. If you're planning to freeze it, consider omitting the heavy cream and adding it fresh upon reheating. In this way, you maintain a silky sauce texture. To thaw, transfer the container to the refrigerator overnight, then reheat slowly on the stove, stirring to combine.

Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal

This creamy lemon chicken pasta can shine on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides can elevate your meal. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette or lemon-dressed arugula is a perfect counterbalance. The crispness of the greens will offset the richness of the pasta beautifully.

If you want to add more substance, consider incorporating steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus directly into the pasta. Adding them during the last two minutes of cooking can save time and create a colorful, nutritious dish. For those who enjoy extra flavor, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a warming kick to the creamy sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?

Yes, you can use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta instead. Just check the cooking time as it may vary.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and then combine with cooked pasta just before serving.

→ Is there a vegetarian option?

Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with roasted vegetables or tofu for a delicious vegetarian version.