How can I make this dish spicier?

If you enjoy a little heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes when you add the garlic. You can also stir in a dash of cayenne pepper or top the finished creamy lemon chicken pasta with chili oil for an extra kick.

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?

Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor. Simply shred the meat and stir it in at the end with the pasta.

What pasta works best with this recipe?

Long strands like fettuccine feel silky with the sauce, while short shapes like penne or rotini catch every bit of cream in their curves, I often switch based on what’s in my pantry.

Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

Yes! Swap heavy cream for coconut cream and Parmesan for a dairy-free cheese alternative

Can I prep this ahead of time?

You can cook the pasta and chicken in advance, then store them separately. When you’re ready, warm everything together with the sauce.

Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta -1 Easy, Remarkable Dinner Recipe

Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta

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Creamy lemon chicken pasta combines tender chicken, garlic, cream, Parmesan, and bright lemon for a 30-minute one-pan dinner.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: One-Pan
Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

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12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rotini)
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Optional: red pepper flakes

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Instructions

Cook pasta until al dente; drain and set aside.
Season and sear chicken in olive oil until golden, 5–7 minutes; remove.
Sauté garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add chicken broth and cream; simmer gently.
Stir in lemon juice, zest, and Parmesan until smooth.
Return chicken and pasta; toss to coat.
Garnish with parsley and red pepper flakes before serving.

Notes

Use half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
Add spinach, broccoli, or peas for extra veggies.
Swap chicken with shrimp or rotisserie chicken for variety.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 420
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 480mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 90mg

Find it online: https://www.recipescommunity.com/creamy-lemon-chicken-pasta/