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Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta

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Bright lemon and fresh basil combine with tender chicken in this vibrant pasta dish.

The perfect balance of citrus, herbs, and garlic creates a light yet satisfying meal.

Ready in under 30 minutes for an impressive weeknight dinner or casual entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 chicken breasts (about 1 pound), thinly sliced
  • 250g (8–9 oz) linguine or spaghetti
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped, plus more for garnish
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth or pasta water
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
  • 2 cups baby spinach (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons pine nuts, toasted (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
  2. While pasta cooks, season chicken slices with salt and pepper.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Add seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
  5. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add lemon zest and juice to the skillet, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  6. Add chicken broth or pasta water and simmer for 1-2 minutes.
  7. Add drained pasta to the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Toss well to coat, adding more pasta water if needed for desired consistency.
  8. Remove from heat. Immediately add chopped basil, cherry tomatoes and spinach if using. Toss gently until spinach just begins to wilt.
  9. Serve topped with grated Parmesan cheese, extra basil, and red pepper flakes or pine nuts if desired.

Notes

For a creamier sauce, add 1/4 cup heavy cream after adding the lemon juice and zest.

This pasta is excellent with seafood instead of chicken – try shrimp or scallops for a delicious variation.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Add a splash of water when reheating.

Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used, portion sizes, and preparation methods.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon basil chicken pasta, lemon garlic pasta, basil chicken recipe, easy chicken pasta, weeknight pasta dinner

Find it online: https://www.joyliciousrecipes.com/lemon-basil-chicken-pasta-easy/