Creamy Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta Recipe

Are you looking for a chicken recipe that combines the freshness of lemon with the aromatic flavor of basil? Look no further than this Creamy Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta recipe. It’s a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious creamy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at your table.

This pasta dish is a wonderful balance of zesty lemon and fragrant basil, making each bite a burst of flavor. It’s quick to prepare and can be on your table in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to elevate your usual chicken dinner into something extraordinary.

A Flavorful and Easy Chicken Pasta Dish

The Creamy Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta features perfectly cooked pasta tossed in a rich, creamy sauce loaded with tender pieces of chicken and bright notes of lemon and basil. It’s a harmonious blend of flavors that is both comforting and refreshing.

Ingredients

8 ounces pasta of your choice (fettuccine or penne work well)
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 lemon, juiced and zested
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: additional basil for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and zest, mixing until smooth.
Combine: Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated in the creamy sauce. Stir in the chopped basil and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with additional basil if desired. Enjoy your creamy lemon basil chicken pasta!