Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta: A Delightful Recipe

Name: Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless chicken thighs; 8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti; 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 2 medium fresh lemons (zest and juice); 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free); ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley; Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe By:

Lily Hartwell

Posted:

November 25, 2025

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The aroma of sautéed garlic mingling with zesty lemon instantly transports you to a sun-kissed Mediterranean terrace. Imagine twirling forkfuls of perfectly cooked pasta around your plate while the tender chicken pieces serenade your taste buds with every bite. This lemon garlic chicken pasta doesn’t just fill your belly; it fills your heart with joy!

a weeknight dinner where everyone is too tired to cook but too hungry to settle for takeout. That’s when this dish swoops in like a culinary superhero. It’s fast, flavorful, and guaranteed to elicit smiles all around the table—because who can resist the charm of creamy, garlicky goodness?

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This lemon garlic chicken pasta is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Its vibrant flavors burst in your mouth and make every bite a delight.
The eye-catching presentation is sure to impress guests at dinner parties.
Versatile enough for any occasion, you can easily customize it based on what you have on hand.

I once made this dish for my friends during a game night, and let’s just say the only thing being devoured faster than the chips was this lemon garlic chicken pasta!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless Chicken Thighs: I prefer thighs for their juiciness and flavor—they won’t dry out like breasts!
Pasta (Fettuccine or Spaghetti): Choose your favorite type; just make sure it’s al dente for that perfect bite.
Fresh Garlic: Use whole cloves for robust flavor; trust me, no one likes powdered garlic here!
Fresh Lemons: Zest and juice them; they add brightness that will have you dreaming of summer.
Heavy Cream: This gives our dish its luscious texture—feel free to substitute with coconut cream if dairy-free.
Parmesan Cheese: Grate some fresh on top; it adds richness that elevates our dish to new heights.
Olive Oil: Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for sautéing—it makes a world of difference in flavor.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley not only adds color but also freshness that brightens up each bite.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions—usually about 8-10 minutes.

Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and add boneless chicken thighs seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown on both sides—around 5-7 minutes per side.

Add Garlic & Lemon Zest: Once the chicken is cooked through, toss in minced garlic and lemon zest. Sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds—just enough time for those glorious aromas to dance around your kitchen.

Create the Sauce: Pour in heavy cream followed by fresh lemon juice into the skillet. Stir well while scraping up any bits from the bottom—this is where all the flavor lives!

Toss Everything Together: Add cooked pasta directly into the skillet along with grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together gently until well combined—the creamy sauce should coat each strand beautifully.

Garnish & Serve!: Finally, sprinkle chopped parsley over your masterpiece before serving hot! Plate it up nicely—it deserves a moment in the spotlight before being enjoyed!

Now you’re ready to dig into this delightful lemon garlic chicken pasta! Enjoy every creamy, zesty bite while basking in culinary glory!

You Must Know

Lemon garlic chicken pasta is a delightful dish that’s both simple and flavorful.
The zesty lemon and aromatic garlic come together to create a meal that feels gourmet yet can be whipped up on a busy weeknight.
The vibrant colors and aromas make it a joy to serve.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first to lock in flavor, then cook the pasta while preparing the sauce to save time and maximize taste.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to substitute chicken with shrimp or add fresh veggies like spinach for a nutritious twist that adds color and crunch.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover lemon garlic chicken pasta in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water for moisture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Ensure your chicken is at room temperature before cooking; this promotes even cooking.
Don’t forget to season your pasta water; it makes all the difference in flavor.
Lastly, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese just before serving elevates the dish beautifully.

Cooking this lemon garlic chicken pasta reminds me of dinner parties where friends would gather around my table, eagerly anticipating the deliciousness that was about to unfold. Their smiles made every effort worth it!

FAQ

Can I use other proteins for lemon garlic chicken pasta?

Yes, shrimp or tofu are great alternatives that pair well with this dish.

What can I add for extra flavor?

Consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like parsley or basil.

How do I prevent overcooking the chicken?

Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F for perfect juiciness without dryness.

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