If you’re looking for a bright and flavorful dish that perfectly balances richness with zest, this Zesty Lemon Chicken Pasta is just what you need! Combining tender chicken, a creamy lemon sauce, and perfectly cooked spaghetti, this dish is a comforting yet refreshing meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With a hint of wine and a burst of fresh lemon, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Ingredients:
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Chicken:
- 1 large boneless, skinless chicken breast (or 2 small)
- Lemon pepper seasoning (see notes)
- 1/3 cup flour
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Pasta/Sauce:
- ½ cup of dry white wine
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- ¾ cup chicken broth
- 1¼ cups half and half
- ½ chicken bouillon cube
- ¾ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- ½ pound thin spaghetti
For Serving:
- Lemons, sliced
- Parsley, roughly chopped
Instructions:
- Season the Chicken: Begin by mixing the dried parsley, oregano, basil, mustard powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Season the chicken breast evenly with this mixture.
- Prepare the Chicken: Dredge the seasoned chicken breast in the flour, ensuring it is fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.
- Prepare the Chicken: Warm the olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breast and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Make the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the dry white wine and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt. Once melted, stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, creating a roux. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and half and half, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add Flavor: Crumble in the chicken bouillon cube and continue stirring until the sauce begins to thicken. Fold in the freshly shredded Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and blends into a creamy consistency. Finally, add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and stir to combine.
- Cook the Pasta: While the sauce is simmering, cook the thin spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce to coat it evenly.
- Combine and Serve: Slice the cooked chicken breast into strips and arrange it over the pasta. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon slices for an extra burst of flavor. Serve hot and enjoy your Zesty Lemon Chicken Pasta!
Conclusion:
This Zesty Lemon Chicken Pasta is a perfect blend of creamy and tangy flavors, making it a standout dish that’s both comforting and refreshing. The combination of tender chicken, rich sauce, and fresh lemon creates a delightful meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds. Enjoy every bite of this vibrant and delicious pasta!