One Pan Lemon Creamy Chicken Pasta
Try this One Pan Lemon Creamy Chicken Pasta recipe
Try this One Pan Lemon Creamy Chicken Pasta recipe
- sea salt to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 cups of water
- 5 cloves of garlic minced
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 1 inch chunks
- 3 cups of low-sodium chicken broth
- 3 cups uncooked penne or rotini pasta (i used gluten free
- 2 medium lemons zested and juiced
- 1 cup of freshly shredded parmesan cheese or more to taste
- 1/2 cup of ricotta cheese (i used light)
- 1/2 cup loosely packed basil leaves sliced thinly
- 1/2 cup loosely packed spinach sliced thinly
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
- 1 lemon sliced for garnish
- Carbohydrate 0.857745000919482 g
- Cholesterol 65.77089365 mg
- Fat 1.51082134711475 g
- Fiber 0.458699996831547 g
- Protein 26.6294495586814 g
- Saturated Fat 0.391624205269174 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (224g)
- Sodium 125.368260133134 mg
- Sugar 0.399045004087936 g
- Trans Fat 0.407159705284717 g
- Calories 130 calories
Step-by-step
- Heat olive oil over medium high heat.
- Add garlic and cook for 20 seconds.
- Toss in chicken and saute until just browned.
- Stir in chicken broth, water and uncooked pasta to pan.
- Bring to a boil, then turn heat down to low.
- Cover pan and cook on low for about 11-13 minutes, stirring pasta with tongs often so it does not stick to bottom of pan.
- Remove cover when pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Allow to simmer for about five more minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, spinach, parsley, basil, parmesan cheese and ricotta cheese.
- Season with additional salt and pepper if needed and garnish with lemon and additional parmesan cheese and parsley, if desired.
One Pan Lemon Creamy Chicken Pasta: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Weeknights are a whirlwind of homework help, soccer practice, and the ever-present question: "What's for dinner?" I need recipes that are quick, easy, and, most importantly, delicious. That's where this One Pan Lemon Creamy Chicken Pasta comes in. It's a lifesaver – a single pan wonder that's ready in under 20 minutes and requires minimal cleanup. Forget complicated steps and endless chopping; this recipe simplifies weeknight dinners without sacrificing flavor.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Everything cooks together in one pan, reducing both cooking time and the mountain of dishes that typically accumulate after dinner prep. The creamy sauce, infused with bright lemon zest and juice, perfectly complements the tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta. The addition of fresh spinach, basil, and parsley adds a vibrant pop of color and freshness to the dish. It's a symphony of flavors, a harmonious blend of savory and tangy, that will leave your family wanting more.
I've always been a fan of one-pan meals, especially since discovering the joy of gluten-free pasta. It doesn't compromise on flavor or texture, making this recipe adaptable for various dietary needs. The whole family loves this dish, even my picky eaters! The creamy sauce is irresistible, and the burst of fresh herbs and lemon makes every bite feel light and refreshing, a welcome change from heavy, rich pasta dishes.
This isn't just a weeknight meal; it's versatile enough for a casual weekend lunch or a light dinner party. The elegant presentation, achieved with minimal effort, makes it perfect for impressing guests without the stress of a complicated recipe. Simply garnish with extra parmesan cheese and lemon slices for an extra touch of elegance.
Beyond its convenience and deliciousness, this recipe offers a sense of satisfaction that comes from creating a nourishing and flavorful meal for your loved ones. It’s a testament to the fact that healthy and delicious don’t have to be mutually exclusive. The vibrant colors, fresh herbs, and the delightful tang of lemon make it not only a satisfying meal, but also a visually appealing one, brightening up even the most rushed weeknights.
So, the next time you’re staring blankly at the refrigerator, wondering what to whip up for dinner, remember this One Pan Lemon Creamy Chicken Pasta. It's a recipe that's as simple as it is delicious, a true testament to the fact that effortless meals can also be incredibly satisfying. It’s a recipe I’ve made countless times, and it never fails to deliver a delicious and easy weeknight dinner. Give it a try and let me know what you think!
Tips and Variations:
- Feel free to substitute your favorite pasta shape.
- Add other vegetables, such as mushrooms or bell peppers, for extra flavor and nutrition.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can use dried herbs instead, but use about 1/3 the amount.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This One Pan Lemon Creamy Chicken Pasta is more than just a recipe; it's a shortcut to a happy and satisfied family, a testament to the power of simple, delicious food that brings people together. Enjoy!
