Chicken Pasta With Lemon Cream Sauce

Name: Chicken Pasta With Lemon Cream Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne); 2 chicken breasts, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Feel-Good Meals

I absolutely love this Chicken Pasta with Lemon Cream Sauce! The first time I made it, I was captivated by how the bright, zesty flavor of the lemon enhanced the creamy sauce, making it both refreshing and indulgent. It’s surprisingly simple to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or when entertaining guests. The combination of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and the tangy lemon cream is a symphony of flavors that never fails to impress. Trust me; you’ll be savoring each bite!

Created by

Imogen Walker

Last updated on 2026-02-28T10:05:35.286Z

When I first whipped up this dish, I was amazed at how well the flavors balanced. The creaminess of the sauce blends perfectly with the brightness of the lemon, and the garlic adds just the right amount of warmth. I suggest adding some fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, at the end for an extra layer of flavor!

Don’t hesitate to play around with the recipe! If you prefer a bit more zest, add more lemon juice or zest into the mix. And for an extra kick, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can really amp up the flavor profile. This dish has become a staple in my kitchen, and I think it will in yours, too!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright citrus flavor that elevates the dish
Creamy sauce that clings to every noodle
Quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights

Choosing the Right Pasta

When it comes to pasta for this Chicken Pasta with Lemon Cream Sauce, both fettuccine and penne work beautifully. Fettuccine, with its wide, flat shape, captures the creamy sauce wonderfully, creating a luscious mouthfeel. Conversely, penne’s ridges allow the sauce to cling to its surface, balancing the dish with each forkful. When selecting your pasta, consider the cooking time, as it varies; fresh pasta cooks much quicker than dried. Make sure to taste it a minute before the package time to achieve the best texture.

If you're looking to make this recipe a bit lighter, consider whole-grain or alternative pastas such as chickpea or lentil noodles. These options will enrich the dish with additional fiber and protein. Just be cautious with cooking times and check for doneness a little earlier than the package suggests to avoid an overly soft texture.

Perfecting the Sauce

The star of this recipe is undoubtedly the lemon cream sauce. As you combine the heavy cream, lemon zest, and juice, allow the mixture to simmer gently over medium heat. This process is crucial for developing flavor without risking the cream scorching. The sauce should thicken slightly and become glossy after 3-4 minutes. If it becomes too thick, simply add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up, retaining the perfect consistency for coating your pasta.

One tip for balancing the brightness of the lemon is to add a pinch of sugar if needed. The sweetness can help cut through the acidity without overwhelming the dish. Adjusting the seasoning with a sprinkle of salt and fresh pepper will also enhance the overall flavor profile, allowing each component to shine through without overpowering one another.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

8 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)
2 chicken breasts, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 lemon, zested and juiced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have these fresh ingredients ready!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Chicken Pasta with Lemon Cream Sauce:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Prepare the Sauce

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. Adjust seasoning as needed, then serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lemon juice and garlic before cooking. Also, for a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Storage and Reheating

This Chicken Pasta with Lemon Cream Sauce is delicious fresh but can be stored for leftovers too. If you plan to have leftovers, keep the sauce and pasta separate to prevent the pasta from becoming mushy. Store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The sauce can also be kept for about the same time. Simply reheat each separately in a pan over low heat, adding a bit of water or cream to reconstitute the sauce as needed.

For longer storage, consider freezing the sauce without the pasta. Freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and heat gently before combining it with freshly cooked pasta.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Chicken Pasta with Lemon Cream Sauce further, consider serving it alongside a light arugula salad. The peppery greens will complement the creamy citrus sauce beautifully. Drizzle the salad with a simple vinaigrette made from olive oil, lemon juice, and a hint of Dijon mustard for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.

For added texture and flavor, garnish your plated dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and extra lemon zest. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also provide a touch of heat, rounding out the dish. If you're feeling adventurous, add some asparagus or spinach during the last couple of minutes of cooking the chicken to introduce a vibrant pop of color and extra nutrients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta you like such as spaghetti, linguine, or even gluten-free options.

→ How can I make this dish healthier?

You can substitute the heavy cream for Greek yogurt or reduce the amount of cream for a lighter sauce.

→ Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Spinach, peas, or cherry tomatoes would be great additions.

→ Can I store leftovers?

Yes, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.