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Lemon Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta Recipe

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Looking for a pasta dish bursting with great flavor that your entire family will enjoy? Look no further than our Lemon Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta recipe! This mouthwatering dish combines the classic combination of garlic, lemon, and chicken to create a delightful symphony of tastes. 

There’s something truly special about a dish that becomes a cherished family favorite. Our Lemon Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta recipe is precisely that! It’s a timeless classic that has won over many’s hearts and taste buds.

With its refreshing lemon flavor and savory garlic notes, this recipe is perfect for those seeking a rich and satisfying pasta experience. So join us as we dive into the details of this irresistible dish that will leave your taste buds craving more.

This delightful combination of tender chicken, al dente penne, and the vibrant flavors of lemon and garlic creates a harmony that never fails to please.

Whether a comforting weeknight dinner or a gathering with loved ones, this recipe brings smiles and satisfied appetites. So join me as we dive into the details of this beloved family favorite that has stood the test of time.

A skillet with Penne Pasta & chicken with a lemon garlicky flavor.

What tools are needed to make this recipe?

  • Heavy Skillet or Large Pan
  • Slotted Spoon
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Knife
  •  4 Quart Pot
  • Zester (optional)

Here’s a recipe for Lemon Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta

Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces penne pasta
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups Broccoli
  • Fresh Parsley (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Cook Pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Add the boneless skinless chicken breast pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through—approximately 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Add the lemon zest and lemon juice to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes.
  5. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for about 2-3 minutes.
  6. Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are coated with the sauce.
  7. Remove from heat and serve the lemon garlic chicken penne pasta hot. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy your delicious creamy lemon chicken pasta!

Variations for the lemon chicken pasta recipe

These variations offer different options to customize the Lemon Chicken Pasta according to your preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy the delightful combination of lemon, garlic, and chicken with these twists!

Cauliflower Pasta

For a lighter version, replace regular penne pasta with cauliflower pasta. It’s a great low-carb option that adds a nutritious twist to the dish.

Heavy Cream

Incorporate heavy cream to add a rich and creamy element to the sauce. Stir it in during the final cooking stage to create a luscious and velvety texture.

Crispy Bacon

Top the pasta with crumbled crispy bacon for a burst of savory flavor and a crisp texture. The smoky bacon complements the lemon and garlic flavors beautifully.

Chicken Stock or Broth

Use chicken broth as the base for the sauce to enhance the depth of flavor. It adds a savory and aromatic quality to the dish, enhancing the overall taste.

Herbs & Spices

You can experiment with additional herbs and spices, such as thyme or red pepper flakes, to enhance the recipe’s complexity.

Mozzarella Cheese

For a cheesy twist, melt some mozzarella on top for a gooey and delicious finish.

Garlic & lemon flavored Penne Pasta, Chicken topped with lemon slices & broccoli pieces

Commonly Asked Questions

How to Store Leftovers?

To store the leftovers of your Lemon Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta, it’s important to follow proper food safety guidelines. Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator within 2 hours after cooking. When refrigerated, the pasta can typically be safely consumed for 2-3 days. Leaving the leftovers at room temperature for an extended period is not recommended, as this can promote bacterial growth.

Why does my Lemon Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta come out dry?

By considering these factors below and making adjustments as needed, you can achieve a moist and flavorful Lemon Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta.

There could be a few reasons why your Lemon Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta turns out dry. Here are some possible factors to consider:

  1. Overcooking the pasta: If cooked for too long, it can become mushy and absorb too much liquid, resulting in a dry dish. Instead, follow the recommended cooking time on the package and cook the pasta until it is al dente, still slightly firm to the bite.
  2. Insufficient sauce: The sauce is crucial in keeping the pasta moist and flavorful. If your pasta is dry, you may not have made enough sauce to coat it adequately. Consider adjusting the sauce ingredient ratio or increasing the sauce amount in the recipe.
  3. Not reserving pasta water: When draining the cooked pasta, it’s a good practice to reserve a small amount of the cooking water. The starchy pasta water can be added to the sauce to help bind it with the pasta and create a creamier consistency.
  4. Overcooking the chicken can become dry and tough if cooked for too long or at high heat. To avoid overcooking, ensure that the chicken is no longer pink in the center.
  5. Not properly seasoning: Seasoning plays a crucial role in bringing out the dish’s flavors. If the pasta lacks seasoning, it may taste bland and dry. Instead, season the chicken, pasta, and sauce with salt, black pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices.
Garlic & lemon flavored Penne Pasta, Chicken topped with lemon slices & broccoli pieces. Next to the skillet is a wooden spoon on top of a tea towel.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Lemon Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta ahead of time. Here are some suggestions for preparing the dish ahead of time and storing it properly:

  1. Cook the pasta and chicken: You can cook the pasta and chicken in advance by following the recipe instructions. Once cooked, allow them to cool before storing.
  2. Prepare the sauce: Prepare the lemon garlic sauce ahead of time and let it cool before storing. Then, you can reheat it later when you’re ready to assemble the dish.
  3. Assemble and store: When you’re ready to assemble the dish, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and sauce in a large container or casserole dish. Toss everything together until well coated. If desired, add any additional ingredients, such as vegetables or cheese.
  4. Refrigerate: Cover the container or dish tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight lid and refrigerate. The Lemon Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
  5. Reheat and serve: When you’re ready to serve, remove the pasta from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for a few minutes. You can then reheat it in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If the pasta appears dry, add a little extra sauce or a splash of chicken broth to moisten it.

By following these steps, you can prepare the Lemon Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta ahead of time and enjoy it later without compromising its flavor and texture.

Lemon Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta Recipe in a cast iron skillet

Lemon Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta Recipe

Yield: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Additional Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Looking for a pasta dish bursting with great flavor that your entire family will enjoy? Look no further than our Lemon Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta recipe! This mouthwatering dish combines the classic combination of garlic, lemon, and chicken to create a delightful symphony of tastes. 

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces penne pasta
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups Broccoli
  • Fresh Parsley (optional)

Instructions

    1. Cook Pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
    2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Add the boneless skinless chicken breast pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through—approximately 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
    3. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
    4. Add the lemon zest and lemon juice to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes.
    5. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for about 2-3 minutes.
    6. Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are well coated with the sauce.
    7. Remove from heat and serve the lemon garlic chicken penne pasta hot. You can garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.

    Notes

    Variations for the lemon chicken pasta recipe

    These variations offer different options to customize the Lemon Chicken Pasta according to your preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy the delightful combination of lemon, garlic, and chicken with these twists!

    Cauliflower Pasta

    For a lighter version, replace regular penne pasta with cauliflower pasta. It's a great low-carb option that adds a nutritious twist to the dish.

    Heavy Cream

    Incorporate heavy cream to add a rich and creamy element to the sauce. Stir it in during the final cooking stage to create a luscious and velvety texture.

    Crispy Bacon

    Top the pasta with crumbled crispy bacon for a burst of savory flavor and a crisp texture. The smoky bacon complements the lemon and garlic flavors beautifully.

    Chicken Stock or Broth

    Use chicken broth as the base for the sauce to enhance the depth of flavor. It adds a savory and aromatic quality to the dish, enhancing the overall taste.

    Herbs & Spices

    To enhance the recipe's complexity, you can experiment with additional herbs and spices, such as thyme or red pepper flakes.

    Mozzarella Cheese

    For a cheesy twist, melt some mozzarella on top for a gooey and delicious finish.

    Nutrition Information
    Yield 4 Serving Size 1
    Amount Per Serving Calories 252Total Fat 11gSaturated Fat 3gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 7gCholesterol 14mgSodium 409mgCarbohydrates 29gFiber 5gSugar 2gProtein 11g

    Calculated Nutrition is an estimate.

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    In conclusion

    Lemon Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta is a flavor-packed dish that never disappoints. The zesty tang of lemon, the aromatic notes of garlic, and the succulent chicken all come together to create a pasta dish that is both satisfying and comforting.

    Whether enjoyed as a quick weeknight meal or served to guests at a special gathering, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser and a true testament to the magic of simple yet vibrant flavors. So, bring a burst of citrusy goodness to your dinner table with this unforgettable lemon garlic chicken pasta. It’s a culinary experience that will leave everyone craving more.

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    8 Comments

    1. lovely share, im a terrible cook but you explained this garlic and lemon chicken recipie so well that even me can do it, thanks so much.will sure let you know how it goes on.

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