If you love a dish that bursts with bright, tangy flavors while staying comforting and creamy, the Zesty Lemon Pepper Chicken Pasta Recipe is about to become your new weeknight hero. This vibrant pasta combines perfectly seasoned, juicy chicken with a luscious lemon-kissed cream sauce, all tossed with al dente penne to create a mouthwatering meal that feels special yet comes together with effortless ease. Whether you’re craving a fresh twist on classic pasta or looking to impress without stress, this recipe hits every note perfectly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting your ingredients ready for the Zesty Lemon Pepper Chicken Pasta Recipe is a breeze because each component plays its own crucial role, whether adding flavor, richness, or that lovely pop of citrusy brightness. These simple staples come together to make something truly spectacular.
- 12 ounces penne pasta: Choose a sturdy pasta like penne that holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips: Thin strips cook quickly and soak up all the zesty seasoning.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided: Used for searing the chicken and adding richness to the sauce.
- 2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning: This is the star seasoning, giving the dish its signature zesty and peppery kick.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For an extra layer of savory depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds gentle heat and complexity.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Brings creaminess and rounds out the sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic elevates the aroma and taste.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, silky sauce coating every bite.
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice: Injects vivid citrus brightness to lift the dish.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest: Adds an intense lemon punch and lovely fragrance.
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: For that irresistible cheesy, savory finish.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish: A fresh touch of color and light herbal notes.
How to Make Zesty Lemon Pepper Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook your penne pasta according to the package directions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture — firm but tender. Once done, drain and set it aside while you prepare the flavorful chicken and sauce. This foundational step ensures the pasta holds up beautifully without getting mushy in the creamy sauce.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken
Next, toss your chicken strips with lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to coat them evenly. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, and cook the chicken for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes lightly golden and cooked through. Removing the chicken now means it won’t overcook later and keeps those juices locked in for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Lemon Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and butter, melting them together over medium heat. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, awakening your kitchen with its delicious aroma. Pour in the heavy cream, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest, allowing the sauce to gently simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until it slightly thickens. Then, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until your sauce is luxuriously smooth and creamy. This step is where the magic of the Zesty Lemon Pepper Chicken Pasta Recipe truly shines.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Finally, return the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together so each penne piece is coated perfectly in that zesty, creamy sauce, and the chicken pieces are evenly distributed. Heat through just until everything is warmed, then transfer to plates or a serving dish, ready for garnishing and enjoying.
How to Serve Zesty Lemon Pepper Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley isn’t just for looks; it adds a bright herbal note that contrasts beautifully with the rich lemon cream sauce. For an extra burst of citrus, sprinkle a bit more lemon zest right before serving to keep that flavor fresh and exciting on the palate.
Side Dishes
Serve this pasta alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette or roasted vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli to balance the richness and add textural variety. Garlic bread also makes a delightful companion to soak up any leftover sauce — never waste a drop!
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion or casual dinner party, consider plating the pasta in shallow bowls with a twist of lemon on the side and scatter some extra Parmesan flakes on top. You can also create a family-style presentation in a large beautiful bowl garnished with fresh parsley sprigs, encouraging everyone to dig in together.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Zesty Lemon Pepper Chicken Pasta Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing to keep the flavors vibrant and the sauce creamy without separating.
Freezing
Because of the cream sauce, freezing this pasta is not ideal as it might impact the texture upon thawing. If you want to freeze it, consider cooking the chicken and pasta separately and freezing those components without the sauce, then make the sauce fresh when ready to eat.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often and adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Avoid microwave reheating if possible, as it can cause uneven warming and change the texture of the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer a bit more juiciness and flavor, but they may require a slightly longer cooking time. Just keep an eye when cooking to ensure they are fully done and tender.
Is it possible to make this pasta gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the penne pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta variety. The sauce and chicken remain the same, so the dish will be just as delicious.
Can I make the sauce lighter?
For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream. The sauce won’t be quite as rich but will still deliver wonderful flavor and creaminess.
How can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Consider tossing in steamed broccoli florets, sautéed spinach, or cherry tomatoes when combining the pasta and chicken with the sauce for added color, nutrition, and taste.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! Since it stores nicely in the fridge and reheats well, it’s a fantastic option for prepping dinners in advance. Just remember to stir in a bit of cream or milk when reheating to keep the sauce silky.
Final Thoughts
This Zesty Lemon Pepper Chicken Pasta Recipe has quickly become one of those dishes I turn to when I want something that’s both comforting and exciting on the palate. Its perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and peppery notes makes every bite a celebration of flavors. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a staple in your kitchen as well. You’re going to love how easy and satisfying this dish is!
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Zesty Lemon Pepper Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Zesty Lemon Pepper Chicken Pasta is a flavorful and creamy dish featuring tender chicken strips seasoned with lemon pepper and garlic, tossed with al dente penne pasta in a rich lemon-infused cream sauce. Garnished with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese, this American-style main course is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner packed with a bright, citrusy kick.
Ingredients
For the Pasta and Chicken
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season the Chicken: In a bowl, season the chicken strips evenly with lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to ensure well-balanced flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked through and lightly golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and the butter. Melt over medium heat. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Simmer Cream and Lemon: Pour in the heavy cream, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Chicken: Add the cooked penne pasta and chicken strips back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly and heat through.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For extra brightness, add additional lemon zest just before serving to enhance the citrus flavor.
- You can substitute half and half for the heavy cream if you prefer a lighter sauce with less fat.
