Description
Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
2 chicken breasts, sliced in half lengthwise
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tbsp olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
8 oz spaghetti
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
Season chicken with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Sear chicken in olive oil over medium heat until golden brown and cooked through (about 4-5 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Sauté garlic in the same skillet until fragrant (about 1 minute). Add chicken broth, lemon juice, and butter. Simmer for 2 minutes.
Toss spaghetti into the skillet with the sauce. Add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen.
Top with seared chicken, Parmesan, and fresh parsley. Serve with a lemon wedge on the side.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 400 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. Begin by preparing your ingredients: slice the chicken breasts, mince the garlic, juice the lemon, and grate the Parmesan. This “mise en place” is crucial for a smooth cooking process. When searing the chicken, ensure the skillet is hot before adding the oil and chicken. Do not move the chicken for the first few minutes to achieve a proper golden-brown crust. While the pasta cooks, start the sauce. The key step is deglazing the pan with chicken broth after sautéing the garlic, scraping up all the flavorful browned bits from the chicken. When combining, add the reserved pasta water gradually; its starch is essential for creating a silky, cohesive sauce that clings to the spaghetti.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a simple arugula salad with a light vinaigrette or roasted asparagus. A crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up the extra lemon-garlic sauce. To elevate the presentation, garnish with extra parsley, lemon zest, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for color and heat. For a wine pairing, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the citrus and garlic flavors perfectly.
How-to Summary
Quickly summarize the process: Season and sear chicken until cooked. Boil pasta, saving some water. In the same pan, cook garlic, then add broth, lemon juice, and butter to make a sauce. Toss the drained pasta in the sauce, using pasta water to adjust consistency. Slice the chicken, top the pasta with it, and finish with Parmesan and parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta shape? Absolutely. Fettuccine, linguine, or even penne work well. Adjust cooking times according to package directions.
How can I make this dish creamier? Stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half with the chicken broth and lemon juice.
Is there a substitute for chicken broth? Vegetable broth or even white wine (simmered for an extra minute) are excellent alternatives.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce.
Can I use pre-cooked or grilled chicken? Yes. Simply prepare the sauce as directed, toss with pasta, and add sliced cooked chicken at the end to warm through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the garlic: Sauté just until fragrant (about 1 minute) to prevent a bitter taste.
- Skipping the pasta water: This starchy liquid is essential for binding the sauce to the pasta.
- Crowding the pan when searing chicken: Cook in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning.
- Using bottled lemon juice: Freshly squeezed juice provides a brighter, cleaner citrus flavor.
- Adding cheese too early: Always add Parmesan off the heat or at the very end to prevent clumping.
Conclusion
This Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta is more than just a quick weeknight dinner; it’s a masterclass in building layers of flavor with minimal ingredients. The combination of savory seared chicken, pungent garlic, and bright lemon creates a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve a perfectly balanced, creamy, and satisfying meal that is sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!