Creamy Cilantro-Lime Chicken Pasta

Creamy Cilantro-Lime Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken and spaghetti in a rich, creamy sauce infused with zesty lime and fresh cilantro. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests. With its vibrant flavors and easy preparation, this pasta dish stands out as a must-try in your summer recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of lime juice and cilantro adds a refreshing twist to the creamy sauce.
• Versatile Options: You can easily swap out the chicken for turkey or even add vegetables for a lighter version.
• Creamy Comfort: The rich Alfredo sauce coats each strand of spaghetti beautifully, delivering comfort in every bite.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it reheats well!

Tools and Preparation

To make Creamy Cilantro-Lime Chicken Pasta, gather your essential kitchen tools. Using the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cooking spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Pot for boiling pasta

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking chicken evenly while allowing ample space for sauce preparation.
• Cooking spoon: A sturdy spoon helps mix ingredients thoroughly, ensuring the sauce coats the pasta well.
• Pot for boiling pasta: A good pot ensures your pasta cooks evenly and efficiently.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Sauce

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
• salt and pepper
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons lime juice, freshly squeezed (use less if bottled juice)
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon cilantro, fresh, chopped

For the Creamy Base

• 2/3 cups heavy cream
• 2/3 cups milk
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (or parmesan cheese, shredded)

For the Pasta

• 8 oz spaghetti pasta (for gluten-free, use gluten-free brown rice spaghetti)
• reserved cooked pasta water
• 1 tablespoon cilantro, fresh, chopped

How to Make Creamy Cilantro-Lime Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet on medium-hot heat.
2. Generously season sliced chicken with salt and pepper.
3. Add chicken to the hot skillet and cook for about 5 minutes until done.
4. Remove sliced chicken from the skillet.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add minced garlic, lime juice, and chicken broth.
2. Cook for 1–2 minutes on high heat to deglaze the pan, ensuring garlic does not burn.
3. Mix in chopped cilantro.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Mixture

1. Add heavy cream and milk to the skillet.
2. Bring to a boil, then immediately add cheese and stir until melted.
3. Remove from heat once combined.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain pasta while reserving some cooked pasta water.

Step 5: Combine Pasta with Sauce

1. Add cooked pasta to the sauce along with half of the cooked chicken.
2. Mix everything together; season with more salt if needed.

Step 6: Serve Your Dish

1. Top with remaining chicken slices and extra chopped cilantro before serving.

Enjoy this Creamy Cilantro-Lime Chicken Pasta as a satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table!

How to Serve Creamy Cilantro-Lime Chicken Pasta

Creamy Cilantro-Lime Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Fresh Salad

• Mixed greens with a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.

Grilled Vegetables

• Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus, grilled to perfection enhance the dish’s flavor profile.

Garlic Bread

• Toasted bread brushed with olive oil and garlic makes for an excellent accompaniment to mop up the creamy sauce.

Avocado Slices

• Creamy avocado slices can complement the lime flavors and add a rich texture to each bite.

Lime Wedges

• Serving lime wedges on the side allows guests to add extra zest according to their taste preferences.

How to Perfect Creamy Cilantro-Lime Chicken Pasta

To achieve the best results with your Creamy Cilantro-Lime Chicken Pasta, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs like cilantro and freshly squeezed lime juice make a significant difference in flavor.

• Cook pasta al dente: This ensures that the spaghetti holds its shape well when mixed into the sauce.

• Reserve pasta water: Adding a bit of reserved pasta water can help adjust the sauce’s consistency without diluting its flavor.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving to ensure balanced flavors in your dish.

• Let it rest briefly: Allowing the pasta to sit for a few minutes after mixing will help absorb the flavors better.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Cilantro-Lime Chicken Pasta

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Cilantro-Lime Chicken Pasta can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Caesar Salad: A crisp salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, and creamy dressing provides a nice crunch alongside your pasta.

2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes complements the tangy lime in the pasta beautifully.

3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and is perfect for summer meals; simply season with butter and lime.

4. Coleslaw: A light, tangy coleslaw can provide great texture contrast while balancing out the creaminess of the dish.

5. Steamed Broccoli: Nutrient-dense steamed broccoli adds color and freshness; drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice for added flavor.

6. Quinoa Salad: A chilled quinoa salad topped with diced vegetables brings in additional nutrients while keeping things light.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, especially when trying a new recipe like Creamy Cilantro-Lime Chicken Pasta. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly can result in bland flavors. Always season well with salt and pepper before cooking.

• Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Cook until just done, about 5 minutes, then remove it from the skillet.

• Not deglazing the pan: Neglecting to deglaze can leave burnt bits in your sauce. After cooking the chicken, add garlic, lime juice, and broth to scrape up those delicious flavors.

• Using low-quality cheese: Using subpar cheese can diminish the creaminess of your sauce. Opt for fresh mozzarella or quality parmesan for better flavor and texture.

• Ignoring pasta water: Forgetting to reserve pasta water may lead to a sauce that’s too thick. Add a bit of this starchy water to adjust the consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Creamy Cilantro-Lime Chicken Pasta in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Cilantro-Lime Chicken Pasta

• You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Creamy Cilantro-Lime Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 20-25 minutes.

• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until heated through.

• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Cilantro-Lime Chicken Pasta:

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! Feel free to substitute spaghetti with any pasta shape you prefer, including gluten-free options.

How can I make this dish lighter?

You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce or omit cheese for a lighter version of Creamy Cilantro-Lime Chicken Pasta.

What other herbs can I add?

Besides cilantro, you might consider adding parsley or basil for extra freshness and flavor in your dish.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Cilantro-Lime Chicken Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding seasonal vegetables or adjusting flavors according to your taste preferences. This recipe is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Give it a try!

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Creamy Cilantro-Lime Chicken Pasta

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Creamy Cilantro-Lime Chicken Pasta is a vibrant and indulgent dish that celebrates the flavors of fresh cilantro and zesty lime, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. This recipe combines tender chicken breast with spaghetti, creating a delightful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this satisfying pasta dish that promises to impress your family and friends. Whether served with a light salad or grilled vegetables, this creamy chicken pasta will quickly become a favorite in your summer recipe collection.

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Ingredients

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• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
• salt and pepper
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons lime juice, freshly squeezed
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons cilantro, fresh, chopped
• 2/3 cups heavy cream
• 2/3 cups milk
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 8 oz spaghetti pasta
• reserved cooked pasta water
• 1 tablespoon cilantro, fresh, chopped

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season sliced chicken with salt and pepper; cook for about 5 minutes until done. Remove from skillet.
2. In the same skillet, add minced garlic, lime juice, and chicken broth; cook for 1–2 minutes to deglaze.
3. Stir in heavy cream and milk; bring to a boil. Add cheese and mix until melted.
4. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions; drain while reserving some pasta water.
5. Combine cooked pasta with sauce and half the chicken; mix well and adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Serve topped with remaining chicken slices and additional cilantro.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (about 250g)
• Calories: 590
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 36g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 37g
• Cholesterol: 130mg