Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta: 30-Minute Delight

Name: Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta: 30-Minute Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast (sliced in half lengthwise to create thin cutlets); 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning (divided (1 tsp for chicken, 1 tsp for sauce)); 2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning; Kosher salt (to taste); Freshly cracked black pepper (to taste); 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided); 1 lb spaghetti; 6 cloves garlic (finely minced); 1 whole lemon (zested and juiced (about 3 tbsp juice)); 1.5 cups heavy cream; 1/2 cup freshly shaved Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup reserved pasta water; Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish); Lemon wedges (for serving)

by basmer

1 de February de 2026

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Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta is my go-to dish when I crave a burst of flavor and comfort in a hurry. This recipe features tender golden chicken paired with spaghetti in a rich, lemony garlic cream sauce. It’s quick to prepare, taking only 30 minutes, making it the perfect option for a busy weeknight dinner. The vibrant flavors of lemon and garlic make every bite a delight, and I promise it will become a favorite in your kitchen just like it is in mine!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta

This Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe stands out for so many reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly quick; it can be on your table in just 30 minutes! Secondly, this dish is rich in flavor, combining the zest of lemon with the creaminess of garlic sauce. Additionally, it’s versatile—feel free to add ingredients like spinach or asparagus for a nutritional boost. It’s also perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy flavorful leftovers. Lastly, it fits well into a gluten-free diet if you choose the right pasta. This Easy Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta is not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience!

Ingredients for Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta

Gather these items:

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast (sliced in half lengthwise to create thin cutlets)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning (divided (1 tsp for chicken, 1 tsp for sauce))
2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning
Kosher salt (to taste)
Freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
1 lb spaghetti
6 cloves garlic (finely minced)
1 whole lemon (zested and juiced (about 3 tbsp juice))
1.5 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup freshly shaved Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup reserved pasta water
Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)

How to Make Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta Step-by-Step

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti until al dente, about 8-9 minutes. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup pasta water. Drain pasta, toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil, and set aside.
Step 2: While pasta cooks, slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create thinner cutlets about 1/2-inch thick. Let chicken rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes if time allows. In a shallow bowl, combine flour, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, lemon pepper seasoning, salt, and pepper. Dredge each chicken piece in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
Step 3: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove to a plate and set aside.
Step 4: Reduce heat to medium and add remaining tablespoon olive oil to the same pan. Add finely minced garlic, remaining teaspoon Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir constantly for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
Step 5: Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and heavy cream to the pan. Stir well and season with salt and pepper. Let sauce warm through and thicken for 2-3 minutes until it coats the back of a spoon and holds a line when you draw your finger through it.
Step 6: Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 7: Add cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water 2 tablespoons at a time until sauce clings smoothly to pasta without pooling at the bottom of the pan.
Step 8: Slice cooked chicken into strips and return to pan, stirring until heated through. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 9: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh chopped parsley and lemon wedges on the side.

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta

Keep these in mind:

Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
Make sure to reserve pasta water; it helps to adjust the sauce consistency.
Don’t overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
For a healthy twist, consider adding Lemon Chicken Pasta with Spinach or Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta with Asparagus.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta

Here are some of my favorite serving ideas:

Pair it with a crisp garden salad for a refreshing contrast.
Serve with crusty garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Top with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an aromatic finish.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to bring back the creamy texture. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta

What is Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta?

It’s a delicious dish featuring chicken and spaghetti in a creamy lemon garlic sauce. The bright flavors make it a popular choice for dinner.

Can I make Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce and chicken in advance. Store them separately, then combine with fresh pasta when ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta?

To avoid mistakes, ensure the chicken is cooked properly and don’t overheat the sauce to prevent curdling. Use freshly grated cheese for the best texture.

Variations of Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta You Can Try

Here are some variations to consider:

Swap spaghetti for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
Add seasonal veggies like asparagus or spinach to enhance nutrition.
For a spicy kick, incorporate red pepper flakes into the sauce.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making Creamy Potato Soup for a comforting meal. If you’re looking for a quick dinner option, Slow Cooker Korean Beef is another great choice!

Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta: 30-Minute Delight

Author: basmer
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Tender golden chicken with spaghetti in a rich, lemony garlic cream sauce. Ready in 30 minutes for an easy weeknight dinner.

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti until al dente, about 8-9 minutes. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup pasta water. Drain pasta, toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil, and set aside.
While pasta cooks, slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create thinner cutlets about 1/2-inch thick. Let chicken rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes if time allows. In a shallow bowl, combine flour, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, lemon pepper seasoning, salt, and pepper. Dredge each chicken piece in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove to a plate and set aside.
Reduce heat to medium and add remaining tablespoon olive oil to the same pan. Add finely minced garlic, remaining teaspoon Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir constantly for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and heavy cream to the pan. Stir well and season with salt and pepper. Let sauce warm through and thicken for 2-3 minutes until it coats the back of a spoon and holds a line when you draw your finger through it.
Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Add cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water 2 tablespoons at a time until sauce clings smoothly to pasta without pooling at the bottom of the pan.
Slice cooked chicken into strips and return to pan, stirring until heated through. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh chopped parsley and lemon wedges on the side.