Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta

This Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the bright flavors of lemon and fresh basil with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this meal takes just around 30 minutes to prepare, making it a fantastic option for busy cooks looking for something delicious yet quick.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights.
• Fresh Flavors: The combination of lemon and basil creates a refreshing taste that brightens up any meal.
• Versatile Ingredients: With simple ingredients, you can easily adjust based on what you have at home.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this flavorful dish, making it great for family dinners.
• Satisfying Meal: Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from tomatoes, it’s both filling and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta, gather your tools to streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large saute pan
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large saute pan: Ideal for sautéing ingredients evenly while providing enough space to mix everything together.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures the pasta cooks properly without sticking together.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and chicken, preventing cross-contamination.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 8 oz linguine, important, if you increase the pasta amount you must double sauce or will be too bland

For the Chicken

• 2 chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter

For the Sauce

• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 6 roma tomatoes, skins peeled (boil for 30 seconds and they should peel off) and cut into sixths
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1/2 package fresh basil, about 5 extra large basil leaves, chopped
• 1/2 c parmigiano cheese, grated
• 1/2 c pasta water + more if needed

How to Make Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This will infuse the meat with flavor as it cooks.

Step 2: Pan Sear the Chicken

In your large saute pan, heat over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and sear the seasoned chicken until golden brown on both sides. Once cooked through, remove from heat and set aside. Let it rest to keep juices intact before cutting into pieces.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package directions until al dente. Make sure to reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

In the same large saute pan used for chicken (lower heat), melt butter and add minced garlic. Cook until fragrant, about 5 minutes. Then add in peeled tomatoes and lemon juice; cover and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Uncover your sauce mixture; add cooked pasta directly to it along with reserved pasta water. Stir in lemon zest, chopped basil, most of the grated parmigiano cheese, and cut chicken pieces. Toss everything gently until well combined.

Step 6: Serve

Plate your Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta hot, garnishing with additional parmigiano cheese if desired. Enjoy this delicious meal that bursts with flavor!

How to Serve Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta

Serving Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens: A simple salad of arugula, spinach, and kale drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice adds a refreshing crunch.
• Caprese Salad: Layer fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for a classic Italian side that complements the pasta’s flavors.

Garlic Bread

• Classic Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with garlic butter and herbs makes for the perfect side to soak up the lemon sauce.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: Add a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese on top of classic garlic bread for an indulgent twist.

Roasted Vegetables

• Seasonal Roasted Veggies: Carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers roasted with olive oil and herbs provide a colorful and nutritious addition to your plate.
• Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus spears grilled to perfection add elegance and flavor.

Lemon Wedge Garnish

• Fresh Lemon Wedges: A simple garnish of lemon wedges allows guests to enhance their dish with an extra burst of citrus flavor.

How to Perfect Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta

Perfecting your Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta can take this dish from good to great. Here are some tips to ensure success.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and ripe tomatoes will significantly enhance the flavor profile of your dish.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Following package instructions closely ensures your pasta retains a firm bite, enhancing texture.
• Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water helps bind the sauce and noodles, creating a creamy consistency.
• Adjust Seasoning Carefully: Always taste as you go; adjusting salt, pepper, and lemon juice can make all the difference in flavor balance.
• Sear Chicken Properly: Ensure your chicken is seared until golden brown for added depth of flavor before adding it to the pasta.
• Add Cheese Last: Stir in most of the cheese at the end to keep it from clumping and ensure even distribution throughout the dish.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta

Pairing side dishes with your Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options.

1. Garlic Butter Broccoli: Steamed or sautéed broccoli tossed in garlic butter complements the pasta beautifully.
2. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts seasoned with balsamic vinegar offer a crunchy contrast to the soft pasta.
3. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles provide a low-carb option that still feels indulgent alongside pasta.
4. Couscous Salad: A chilled couscous salad with veggies adds texture and freshness to balance the richness of the chicken pasta.
5. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, artichokes, and marinated vegetables adds variety and enhances an Italian theme.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse the palate after enjoying this hearty dish while providing sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the overall flavor and texture of the dish.

• Not seasoning the chicken properly: Ensure you season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper evenly. This step enhances the meat’s flavor and prevents blandness.

• Ignoring pasta water: Always reserve some pasta water before draining. The starchy water helps to thicken sauces and bind all the ingredients together for a better result.

• Overcooking the garlic: Garlic should be sautéed just until fragrant, about 5 minutes. Overcooking can lead to bitterness, ruining the dish’s balance.

• Skipping fresh basil: Fresh basil adds a unique flavor that dried herbs cannot replicate. Use fresh basil for the best taste in your Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta.

• Not letting the chicken rest: After cooking, let the chicken sit for a few minutes before slicing it. This locks in juices and keeps it tender.

• Neglecting to toss everything well: Tossing your pasta thoroughly with the sauce ensures even distribution of flavors. Don’t skip this step for a delicious meal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Best consumed within 1-2 months for quality retention.

Reheating Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.

• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and reheat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.

• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet with a splash of reserved pasta water to keep it moist while stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta?

Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta is a flavorful dish featuring linguine tossed with seasoned chicken, ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a zesty lemon sauce.

How long does it take to make Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta?

The entire process takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! While linguine is recommended, you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer such as fettuccine or penne.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta stores well and can be prepared ahead of time for convenient meals throughout the week.

How can I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. You can also adjust the amount of lemon juice and zest according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly versatile. Its bright flavors and satisfying texture make it an ideal choice for any weeknight meal. Experiment with additional ingredients to make it your own!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta

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

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Description

Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta is a vibrant and flavorful dish that effortlessly combines the zest of fresh lemons, aromatic basil, and tender chicken over a bed of linguine. This quick recipe, taking only 30 minutes from start to finish, is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. The bright citrus notes enhance the savory elements, creating a delightful balance that will please both kids and adults alike. With simple ingredients and easy preparation steps, this dish invites you to enjoy a wholesome meal without sacrificing flavor or time.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz linguine
• 2 chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 6 roma tomatoes, peeled and cut into sixths
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 5 large basil leaves, chopped
• 1/2 cup grated parmigiano cheese
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water

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Instructions

1. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. In a large sauté pan over medium-high heat, add olive oil and sear the chicken until golden brown. Remove from heat and let it rest before slicing.
3. Boil salted water in a pot; cook linguine according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
4. In the same sauté pan, melt butter over low heat; add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in tomatoes and lemon juice; cover and simmer for about 5 minutes.
5. Toss in the cooked pasta with reserved pasta water, lemon zest, chopped basil, sliced chicken, and most of the parmesan cheese until well combined.
6. Serve hot with additional parmesan if desired.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approx. 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 75mg