Lemon Chicken Pasta: A Tangy and Delicious Meal

Welcome to our simple yet exquisite recipe for lemon chicken pasta! This dish is perfect for home cooks, pasta lovers, and health enthusiasts alike. With its zesty lemon flavor and tender chicken, it strikes a beautiful balance between healthy eating and gourmet dining. Let’s dive into this fresh and flavorful culinary adventure.

Ingredients

You will need:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
• 1 teaspoon of lemon zest
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 8 ounces of pasta of your choice (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne work well)
• 1 cup of chicken broth
• 1/2 cup of heavy cream or Greek yogurt (for a healthier option)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for a bit of heat

Preparation

Marinating the Chicken:

1. Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
2. In a bowl, mix the lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and ensure each piece is well-coated with the marinade.
4. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat for a more flavorful dish.

Cooking Instructions

Cooking the Chicken:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet.
3. Add the marinated chicken pieces to the skillet, cooking until they are golden brown and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Preparing the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite).
3. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Combining the Flavors

1. In the same skillet used for the chicken, add the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer.
2. Stir in the heavy cream or Greek yogurt and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
3. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, stirring to coat with the sauce.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
5. Season with additional salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.

Serving

1. Transfer the pasta to serving plates or a large serving dish.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and extra lemon slices for a beautiful presentation.
3. Serve immediately while the dish is hot and flavorful.

Health Benefits

This lemon chicken pasta is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits:

• Lean Protein: The chicken provides a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Vitamin C: Fresh lemon juice is rich in vitamin C, boosting your immune system and promoting healthy skin.
• Healthy Fats: The olive oil used in the dish offers heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy making (and eating!) this delightful lemon chicken pasta. Its fresh, zesty flavors and straightforward preparation make it a fantastic addition to any home cook's repertoire. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out! Share your experiences and photos in the comments below.