Description
Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta combines juicy chicken, fresh basil, and a tangy lemon sauce tossed with your favorite pasta. It’s quick to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
8 oz pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and slice into thin strips.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Add the lemon zest and juice to the skillet, then pour in the chicken broth. Stir and let the liquid simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for another 2 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
- Toss the cooked pasta and sliced chicken into the skillet, coating it well with the lemon basil sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to heat through.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan and basil if desired.
Notes
For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
Add red pepper flakes while sautéing garlic for a spicy kick.
Swap Parmesan cheese for pecorino Romano or asiago for a different flavor.
For a healthier twist, use gluten-free or whole wheat pasta.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
Reheat leftovers in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream for creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg