If you are craving a dish that combines brightness, comfort, and a little touch of elegance all in one, this Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to meal. It strikes the perfect balance between zesty lemon flavor, tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and cheesy richness that makes every forkful simply irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing friends over a casual gathering, this recipe brings warmth and freshness to your table with ease.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe is thoughtfully chosen to create a dish that bursts with fresh flavors and satisfying textures. From the al dente pasta that carries every bite to the bright notes of lemon and the savory richness of parmesan, every element plays a crucial role.
- 16 ounces mini farfalle pasta: These tiny bow-tie shaped pastas are perfect for holding sauce and mixing with the tender chicken and veggies.
- 2-3 boneless skinless chicken breasts: Chicken is the star protein here, adding a hearty and lean element to the dish.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken and vegetables, enhancing all the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Provides a concentrated lemon aroma and brightness that lifts the whole dish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder, divided: Brings a savory, mellow garlic flavor that complements the fresh garlic perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, divided: A blend of herbs that adds a subtle earthiness and depth to both chicken and veggies.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds gentle sweetness and complexity to the chicken seasoning.
- 3 Tablespoons olive oil, divided: Used for cooking the chicken and sautéing vegetables, olive oil adds a fruity, rich base.
- 1 zucchini, chopped: Adds crispness, color, and a fresh layer of flavor to the pasta.
- 1 yellow squash, chopped: Along with zucchini, it contributes vibrant color and a mild sweetness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses the dish with an aromatic punch that brightens every bite.
- 4 Tablespoons butter: Adds silky richness to the sauce, balancing the lemon’s brightness perfectly.
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice: The key to the signature tang of this recipe, fresh lemon juice keeps the flavors vibrant.
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: Creamy and salty, parmesan brings depth and a luscious finish to the pasta.
- 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley: A fresh herb garnish that adds a pop of color and a subtle herbal note.
How to Make Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Adding salt is crucial here because it seasons the pasta from the inside as it cooks. Toss in the mini farfalle pasta and cook until just al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite to it. This ensures the pasta holds up beautifully once combined with sauce and vegetables. Once cooked, drain and set aside, ready to soak up the flavors you’ll layer on next.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
While your pasta is working away, it’s time to season the chicken breasts. Salt and freshly ground black pepper form the base, but the real magic comes from the lemon zest, half of the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and onion powder. Each seasoning makes the chicken juicy, aromatic, and full of nuance. Be generous here because the chicken will carry a significant amount of flavor in this pasta dish.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the pan and let them cook undisturbed for about 3 to 5 minutes per side. This creates a beautiful golden crust while locking in juices. Once cooked through, remove the chicken and loosely cover it with foil to rest. Resting helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken tender when chopped later.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
With the chicken out of the way, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet. Toss in the chopped zucchini and yellow squash, seasoning lightly with salt, pepper, the remaining garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. These vegetables will soften slightly but still maintain a satisfying crunch, providing texture contrast. Add the minced garlic last and sauté it just long enough for its fragrance to bloom, about 30 seconds.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Now it’s time to bring everything together. Add your hot pasta directly to the skillet alongside the veggies. Drop in the butter and pour in the fresh lemon juice. Toss everything gently but thoroughly, allowing the butter to melt and the lemon juice to lightly coat the pasta with a silky, tangy finish. Sprinkle the freshly grated parmesan cheese in and toss again, creating a beautiful, cheesy embrace around every bite.
Step 6: Add the Chicken and Finish
Slice the rested chicken into bite-sized chunks and gently fold it back into the pasta mixture. A careful toss ensures every piece is coated with that luscious sauce and flecked with parmesan and herbs. At this point, your Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe is ready to be plated and enjoyed immediately for the best flavor and texture.
How to Serve Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate presentation and add bursts of freshness, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top right before serving. A little extra grated parmesan cheese on the side invites diners to customize their cheesy indulgence. These simple garnishes add layers of color and flavor that make the dish feel joyful and complete.
Side Dishes
The beauty of this Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe is it can shine as a complete meal on its own, but if you want to round out your plate, consider a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or a side of garlic bread. Both options bring a refreshing crunch or a toasty complement that pairs beautifully without overpowering the lemony pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this pasta in shallow bowls to capture all those delicious juices and garnishes. Alternatively, transfer it to a large serving platter and sprinkle with edible flowers or microgreens for an eye-catching dinner party centerpiece. You could also plate individual servings with a lemon wedge on the side, inviting guests to brighten their pasta with an extra squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Lemon Chicken Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the dish to room temperature before refrigerating to preserve texture and flavor. The pasta might absorb some of the sauce overnight, so stirring in a splash of water or a little olive oil when reheating helps revive the dish.
Freezing
While this pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Use a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge. Note that some vegetables might soften more after freezing, so this method is ideal for shorter storage or for saving the cooked chicken and pasta only.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium heat with a small splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even warming. Adding a little fresh lemon juice before serving can revive the bright lemon flavors that make this dish so special.
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta than mini farfalle?
Absolutely! While mini farfalle is perfect for this Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe because of its shape and size, feel free to use penne, rotini, or even small shells. Just make sure the pasta is bite-sized to hold the sauce and ingredients well.
Is it possible to use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be a great alternative if you prefer darker meat with more fat and flavor. Just adjust cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through but will remain tender and juicy.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, omit the butter and parmesan cheese. You can substitute with dairy-free margarine and sprinkle nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. The fresh lemon juice and olive oil will still give plenty of brightness and richness.
What if I don’t have fresh lemon juice or zest?
Fresh lemon juice and zest really make a difference in this dish, but in a pinch, bottled lemon juice can substitute, though the flavor will be less vibrant. Avoid bottled lemon zest; it’s best to use fresh lemon peel for that aromatic intensity.
How spicy is this dish? Can I add heat?
This Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe is mild and designed to highlight fresh, bright flavors, but you can easily add heat by tossing in crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne when sautéing the vegetables. Adjust the spiciness to your liking for a personalized kick.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend enough giving this Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe a try whenever you want a meal that feels both fresh and comforting. It’s a dish that brings joy to the table with every forkful and is simple enough to become a regular in your dinner rotation. So grab those ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and prepare to fall in love with these bright, buttery, and delicious flavors!
Print
Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 5 to 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Lemon Chicken Pasta recipe is a bright and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts sautéed with fresh vegetables and tossed with mini farfalle pasta in a zesty lemon butter sauce. Enhanced with garlic, Italian seasonings, and parmesan cheese, this quick and easy meal is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 16 ounces mini farfalle pasta (or your favorite bite-size pasta)
Chicken
- 2–3 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder, divided
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 3 Tablespoons olive oil, divided
Vegetables and Flavorings
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 yellow squash, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce and Garnish
- 4 Tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the mini farfalle pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to keep warm.
- Season Chicken: While pasta is cooking, season both sides of chicken breasts with salt, freshly ground black pepper, lemon zest, and half of the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and all the onion powder evenly.
- Cook Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook each side for 3-5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and tent with foil to keep warm.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil to the same skillet. When hot, add chopped zucchini and yellow squash. Season with salt, pepper, remaining garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 2 minutes over medium-high heat. Then add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the hot cooked pasta to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir in butter and fresh lemon juice, tossing well until the butter has melted and everything is evenly combined. Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the mixture and toss again until uniformly distributed.
- Add Chicken and Serve: Slice the rested chicken into bite-sized pieces and return to the skillet. Gently toss to combine all ingredients. Serve immediately garnished with fresh chopped parsley and extra parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Use freshly grated parmesan for best flavor and texture.
- Adjust lemon juice to taste for a stronger or milder citrus flavor.
- Cook chicken thoroughly but avoid overcooking to keep it tender.
- You can substitute zucchini and yellow squash with other vegetables like bell peppers or asparagus.
- To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta varieties.
