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Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Pasta: Linguine or fettuccine works perfectly for this dish, but you can swap it out with spaghetti or penne if that’s what you have. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package directions.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for a quick meal. If you’re looking for a shortcut, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic alternative! Just shred it and add it to the sauce.

Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential for flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used instead. Use about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove.

Heavy Cream: This adds richness, but if you’re after a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or milk. Just keep in mind it may not be as creamy.

Parmesan Cheese: For the best flavor, freshly grated Parmesan is the way to go. If you’re out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano is a solid substitute; it’s slightly saltier, but still delicious.

How Do I Get the Sauce Just Right?

Getting the sauce to the right consistency is key for this recipe. After adding the chicken broth, heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest to the skillet, simmer gently to thicken it. Follow these steps:

• Start with medium heat to bring the mixture to a simmer.
• Add butter and Parmesan cheese once it’s simmering. Stir well for a creamy texture.
• If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer a few extra minutes. If too thick, add a splash more broth or cream to adjust as needed.

With this technique, you’ll achieve the creamy, tangy sauce that holds everything together beautifully.

How to Make Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz linguine or fettuccine pasta

For the Chicken and Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For Garnishing:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon slices

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta recipe takes about 25 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping ingredients and cooking the chicken, followed by about 15 minutes to make the sauce and combine everything. It’s a quick and satisfying meal!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine or fettuccine pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Cook the Chicken:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. While it heats, season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and black pepper to taste. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and thoroughly cooked. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Sauté the Garlic:

In the same skillet, lower the heat slightly, and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, but be careful not to burn it!

4. Create the Sauce:

Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, add the butter and grated Parmesan cheese while stirring continuously. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly for about 3-4 minutes.

5. Combine Chicken and Pasta:

Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat it in the creamy lemon sauce. Then, gently add the cooked pasta into the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated.

6. Garnish and Serve:

For a finishing touch, garnish your pasta with chopped fresh parsley, a sprinkle of additional grated Parmesan cheese, and lemon slices. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious lemon garlic chicken pasta!

Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?

Absolutely! If using frozen chicken, make sure to fully thaw it before cooking. The best method is to transfer it to the fridge overnight. If you need a quicker option, place it in a sealed bag and submerge the bag in cold water until thawed.

Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by substituting the chicken with your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers, broccoli, or mushrooms. Just sauté the veggies until they’re tender, and proceed with the recipe as usual using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How to Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.

Can I Prepare This in Advance?

You can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Chop the chicken and garlic, and even measure out the liquids the day before. However, it’s best to cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve for optimal texture.