Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta

Name: Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine pasta; 2 boneless chicken breasts, diced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Feel-Good Flavors

I absolutely love this Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta! It's a delightful dish that perfectly balances the brightness of lemon with the richness of cream and savory chicken. The simple ingredients come together for a comforting meal that's great for weeknights or special occasions. Each bite bursts with flavor, and the creamy sauce clings to the pasta beautifully. It’s a dish that my family requests time and again, and I’m thrilled to share the recipe with you.

Created by

Veronica Miles

Last updated on 2026-02-01T22:51:36.532Z

When I first tried making Chicken Pasta, I wanted something that felt luxurious but was quick enough for a busy evening. The combination of lemon and cream turned out to be the perfect match, bringing freshness and comfort to a classic dish. Cooking the chicken in a skillet allows it to develop a golden crust while ensuring it stays juicy. I always finish the sauce with a bit of pasta water to help the creamy sauce cling to the noodles beautifully, enhancing every bite.

This recipe has become a staple in our home, not only for its taste but also for its simplicity. Using fresh lemon juice and zest elevates the dish, leaving a vibrant, zesty flavor. The balance of the cream against the tang of the lemon is so satisfying. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite veggies or herbs to make it your own!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A creamy texture that dazzles your palate
Fresh lemon adds a bright twist to traditional pasta
Quick to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze

Perfect Pasta for a Creamy Sauce

Cooking the fettuccine to al dente is crucial for this dish, as it allows the pasta to hold up against the rich and creamy sauce. Pay attention to the package instructions, which usually recommend boiling the pasta for about 8-10 minutes. Be sure to reserve a cup of the pasta water before draining, as it can be a lifesaver if the sauce needs to be adjusted later.

Using fresh fettuccine rather than dried can elevate this dish significantly, offering a slightly softer texture and richer flavor. If you can find it, even better. Fresh pasta cooks faster, usually within 3-4 minutes, so keep a close eye on it to prevent overcooking.

The Role of Lemon in the Dish

The juice and zest of the lemon are not just for flavor—they provide a bright acidity that beautifully cuts through the richness of the heavy cream. Be sure to use a fresh lemon, as bottled juice lacks the vibrant flavor that makes this dish shine. When zesting, avoid the white pith as it can be bitter; focus solely on the bright yellow skin.

You can also experiment with other citrus fruits, like lime or even orange, if you're in the mood for something different. However, keep the lemon as a base since its acidity balances the creaminess and enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

8 oz fettuccine pasta
2 boneless chicken breasts, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are ready before starting.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your dish:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.

Make the Sauce

Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Combine Everything

Stir in the cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese, mixing well. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until desired consistency is reached.

Serve

Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For an added kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Enjoy with a side salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to make this dish ahead of time, consider undercooking the pasta slightly, so it maintains better texture when reheated. Store the creamy sauce separately to avoid the pasta absorbing too much liquid, which can lead to a soggy dish. You can refrigerate the components for up to 2 days.

When you're ready to enjoy it, reheat the sauce gently over medium heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if it appears too thick. Then, toss together the reheated pasta and sauce until glossy and thoroughly combined.

Serving Suggestions

While this creamy lemon chicken pasta is a star on its own, it pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a light salad for a complete meal. A fresh arugula salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette complements the dish without overshadowing its flavors.

If you're entertaining guests, you might also consider garnishing the pasta with additional lemon zest and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for added presentation. A few lemon wedges on the side can invite diners to tailor the tartness to their liking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta instead?

Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta works well and adds extra fiber.

→ Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cream?

Yes, you can substitute with coconut cream or a cashew-based cream for a dairy-free version.

→ Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! Spinach, asparagus, or even cherry tomatoes make great additions.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of water if necessary.