Unveiling the secret: lemon chicken recipe with pasta that will ignite your taste buds

Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with our exquisite Lemon Chicken Recipe with Pasta. This vibrant dish seamlessly blends the zesty tang of lemon with the comforting warmth of chicken and the al dente bite of pasta. Join us on a culinary journey as we delve into the secrets of creating this mouthwatering masterpiece.

Ingredients

For the Lemon Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Pasta:

• 1 pound linguine pasta
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

For the Lemon Cream Sauce:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Chicken

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the linguine and cook according to the package directions.
3. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Cream Sauce

1. In a small saucepan, whisk together the heavy cream, lemon juice, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly.
3. Reduce heat and simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Pan-Fry the Chicken

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.

Step 5: Combine the Ingredients

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken.
2. Pour the lemon cream sauce over the pasta and chicken.
3. Stir well to combine.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Variations

• Spicy Lemon Chicken: Add 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade for a kick of heat.
• Lemon Capers Chicken: Stir in 1/4 cup of capers to the lemon cream sauce for a briny twist.
• Lemon Garlic Chicken: Sauté 2 minced garlic cloves in the skillet before adding the chicken for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad for a refreshing balance.
• Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or asparagus, for a healthy and colorful meal.
• Enjoy with a glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, to complement the citrusy flavors.

Nutritional Information

One serving (1 cup) contains approximately:

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 15 grams
• Protein: 30 grams
• Carbohydrates: 50 grams

Tips

• For extra crispy chicken, coat the pieces in breadcrumbs before pan-frying.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the pasta water to enhance the citrusy flavor.
• If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute it with milk or evaporated milk.

The Bottom Line

Our Lemon Chicken Recipe with Pasta is a culinary masterpiece that will delight your senses and leave you craving for more. With its vibrant flavors, tender chicken, and al dente pasta, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Experiment with our variations and serving suggestions to create a truly unique and unforgettable dining experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, but thaw it completely before marinating.

Q: How long can I marinate the chicken for?
A: You can marinate the chicken for as little as 30 minutes or up to overnight.

Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of pan-frying it?
A: Yes, bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes, feel free to use any type of pasta you like, such as penne, spaghetti, or fettuccine.

Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
A: Yes, you can add chopped vegetables, such as broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers, to the skillet with the chicken.