Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta Recipe

Bright, refreshing, and packed with flavor, this Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta Recipe is a versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious lemon-basil sauce for a meal that’s equal parts comforting and sophisticated. With its vibrant flavors and simple preparation, this recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, entertaining guests, or even meal prepping for the week ahead.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Bursting with Freshness: The lemon and basil combination creates a refreshing and aromatic flavor.
2. Easy to Make: Ready in just 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
3. Healthy and Satisfying: Protein-packed chicken and wholesome pasta make it a balanced meal.
4. Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to your preferences or dietary needs.

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
3. Rest and Slice: Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Drain and Set Aside: Drain the pasta and toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet used for the chicken, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add Lemon and Broth: Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
3. Incorporate Cream and Cheese: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Whisk until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
4. Season and Add Basil: Add the chopped basil and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Toss Pasta and Chicken: Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
2. Heat Through: Cook for 2-3 minutes over low heat until everything is heated through and well combined.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Plate the Dish: Transfer the pasta to a serving dish or individual plates.
2. Garnish: Top with fresh basil leaves, lemon slices, and extra Parmesan cheese.
3. Serve: Pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente, as the pasta will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the sauce.
2. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and basil make a significant difference in flavor.
3. Adjust Consistency: Use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.
4. Make It Ahead: Prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, then combine with freshly cooked pasta before serving.

Recipe Variations

1. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
2. Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add roasted vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers.
3. Add Protein: Swap chicken for shrimp or grilled salmon for a seafood twist.
4. Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.

Serving Suggestions

This Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta pairs beautifully with:

• Salads: A crisp arugula or Caesar salad.
• Bread: Warm focaccia or garlic knots.
• Wine: A light, zesty white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of tangy lemon, aromatic basil, and creamy sauce creates a harmonious blend of flavors that complement the tender chicken and pasta perfectly. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that’s easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, this Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Yield: 4

Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta Recipe

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Bright, refreshing, and packed with flavor, this Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta Recipe is a versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious lemon-basil sauce for a meal that's equal parts comforting and sophisticated. With its vibrant flavors and simple preparation, this recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, entertaining guests, or even meal prepping for the week ahead.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Total Time 40 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Chicken:
• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• For the Pasta:
• 12 ounces penne or linguine pasta
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large lemon, juiced and zested
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 cups fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Prepare the Chicken:

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Rub them with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Remove from skillet and let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips.

3. Make the Sauce:

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
2. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
3. Add red pepper flakes if desired, and season with salt and pepper.

4. Combine the Pasta:

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, if the sauce needs thinning.
2. Stir in the chopped basil and gently fold in the sliced chicken.

5. Serve:

1. Divide the pasta among plates or bowls. Garnish with additional basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of lemon zest for extra flavor.
2. Serve immediately with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad.

Notes

• Pasta Options: Use spaghetti, fettuccine, or bow tie pasta for a fun twist.
• Make It Lighter: Substitute half-and-half or milk for heavy cream.
• Vegetable Additions: Toss in sautéed asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or spinach for added color and nutrients.
• Meal Prep: The sauce can be made ahead and reheated with a splash of pasta water.