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Lemon Chicken Pasta

Lemon Chicken Pasta: A Bright and Creamy Family Favorite

This Lemon Chicken Pasta is a quick and delicious meal that the whole family will love, combining zesty flavors and creamy texture.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 16 oz Mini Farfalle Pasta Feel free to swap with any bite-size pasta like penne or fusilli.
For the Chicken
  • 2-3 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Use rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken for extra convenience.
For Seasoning
  • Salt & Pepper Adjust to taste for a personalized touch.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Use fresh garlic for a more robust flavor.
  • 1 tsp Italian Seasoning Substitute with fresh herbs for a lively taste.
  • ½ tsp Onion Powder Can be omitted if you prefer.
For Cooking
  • 3 tbsp Olive Oil Switch to avocado oil for a variation.
For the Veggies
  • 1 Zucchini Feel free to swap with bell peppers or asparagus.
  • 1 Yellow Squash Can be replaced with mushrooms or broccoli.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Reduce quantity if garlic isn’t your preference.
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 4 tbsp Butter Use olive oil alone for a lighter option.
  • ¼ cup Fresh Lemon Juice Tailor the amount to suit your taste.
  • 1 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Consider using nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
  • ¼ cup Fresh Parsley Can be replaced with basil or omitted.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the mini farfalle pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and no longer pink in the center. Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest before slicing.
  3. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, chopped zucchini, and yellow squash. Sauté over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes until tender and slightly golden. Stir in the minced garlic during the last minute before removing from heat.
  4. Return the skillet to low heat and stir in the butter and fresh lemon juice, allowing it to melt. Mix in the cooked pasta, sliced chicken, and grated Parmesan cheese, tossing for about 2-3 minutes until well coated. Add reserved pasta water if needed for creaminess.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in lemon zest and chopped parsley. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 70gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 700IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For freezing, portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, keeping well for up to 2 months.

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