Lemon Basil Pasta W Chicken
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this vibrant Lemon Basil Pasta with Chicken, a dish that strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and sophistication. Tender slices of golden-seared chicken breast are layered over al dente pasta and tossed in a silky lemon-garlic sauce, brightened with fresh basil and a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese. This quick and easy pasta recipe is ready in just 35 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings or casual entertaining. Subtle hints of zest and optional red pepper flakes give it a zippy, aromatic kick, while the addition of reserved pasta water ensures a perfectly creamy yet light coating. Serve this easy citrusy pasta dish with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for fans of Italian-inspired recipes packed with fresh flavors, this lemon basil pasta is a go-to dinner you’ll keep coming back to.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 0.25 cups fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 0.5 cups grated Parmesan cheese
- 12 ounces pasta (e.g., linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine)
- 0.5 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoons red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining and set the pasta aside.
While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper on both sides.
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, chicken broth, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, loosen it with a splash of the reserved pasta water.
Stir in the sliced chicken, chopped basil, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, tossing to combine.
Season to taste with the remaining salt and black pepper.
Serve the pasta hot, garnished with the remaining Parmesan cheese and extra basil leaves if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
418 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 17.2 g | 22% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.6 g | 23% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 84 mg | 28% | |
| Sodium | 791 mg | 34% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 28.5 g | 10% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.9 g | 7% | |
| Total Sugars | 1.0 g | ||
| Protein | 36.6 g | 73% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 141 mg | 11% | |
| Iron | 1.9 mg | 11% | |
| Potassium | 350 mg | 7% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
