Lemon Chicken Pasta

If you love meals that are both bright and comforting, this Lemon Chicken Pasta is absolutely dreamy! Every bite is packed with zesty lemon, tender chicken, and a creamy sauce that clings to every strand of pasta.

The tangy citrus flavor pairs perfectly with the savory chicken and a sprinkle of Parmesan, making this dish irresistibly fresh yet cozy. It’s the very best weeknight dinner when you want something easy, satisfying, and just a little bit special.

It comes together in one pan (yes, really!), making cleanup a breeze and your kitchen smell like an Italian trattoria. Whether you’re feeding the whole family or hosting a casual dinner with friends, this pasta is always a hit.

This recipe is inspired by my love for restaurant-style creamy pasta, but with a homemade, lemony twist that brightens up any table!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Ready in under 45 minutes for a fuss-free meal everyone loves
• Bright, fresh lemon flavor keeps it light and lively
• Juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken in every bite
• One-pan recipe ensures easy cleanup and less mess

Key Ingredients for Lemon Chicken Pasta

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Chicken Breast

Chicken breast is lean, tender, and cooks up quickly, making it the perfect choice for this dish. Slice the chicken into thin strips for even cooking and juicy bites. You can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra richness—just trim any excess fat.

Fresh Lemon

The star of the show! Fresh lemon juice and zest add a vibrant tang that brightens up the entire pasta. Always use fresh lemons if you can, as bottled juice lacks that fresh, zippy flavor. Meyer lemons work well for a slightly sweeter twist.

Pasta

I love using linguine or spaghetti for this recipe—they soak up the creamy sauce beautifully. You can use any long pasta you have on hand, or try penne or fusilli for a more rustic presentation. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta also works great.

Heavy Cream

Heavy cream creates a luscious, silky sauce that coats every piece of chicken and pasta. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk, but the sauce will be a bit thinner. Avoid using low-fat milk, as the sauce may not thicken properly.

Parmesan Cheese

Parmesan cheese brings a salty, nutty depth to the sauce. I recommend grating it fresh for the best flavor and melt. Pecorino Romano is a great substitute if you want a stronger, sharper kick.

Instructions for Lemon Chicken Pasta

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the sliced chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken to a plate and keep warm.

Make the Lemon Cream Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add a splash more olive oil if needed. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and toss again until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.

Garnish and Serve

Transfer the Lemon Chicken Pasta to plates or a large serving bowl. Top with extra Parmesan, chopped fresh parsley, and lemon slices for a beautiful finish. Serve immediately while hot and creamy!

Recipe Variations

Make It Vegetarian

Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, asparagus, or broccoli instead. The lemony cream sauce pairs wonderfully with a variety of veggies for a fresh, meatless main!

Add a Kick

If you love spicy food, amp up the crushed red pepper flakes, or stir in a spoonful of Calabrian chili paste for a fiery twist.

Gluten-Free Swap

Use your favorite gluten-free pasta in place of regular linguine. The sauce and chicken are naturally gluten-free, so this dish adapts easily!

Cream-Free Lighter Version

For a lighter take, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even Greek yogurt (stir in at the end off heat to avoid curdling). The sauce will still be creamy but with less richness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Lemon Chicken Pasta with a crisp green salad or garlicky roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Warm, crusty bread or garlic knots are perfect for soaking up the creamy lemon sauce. Garnish each plate with extra Parmesan, fresh parsley, and a sprinkle of lemon zest for a burst of color and flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce and warm gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally. While this dish is best fresh, you can freeze it for up to 1 month—just be aware the sauce may separate slightly upon thawing. Stir well after reheating to bring it back together.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lemon Chicken Pasta (FAQ)

Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
A: Fresh lemon juice gives the brightest, freshest flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch. You may need to adjust the amount to taste.

Q: What pasta shapes work best for this recipe?
A: Long shapes like linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine are ideal, but penne or fusilli will also soak up the sauce nicely.

Q: How do I keep the chicken juicy?
A: Slice the chicken thinly so it cooks quickly and don't overcook it—just 4-5 minutes is perfect. Resting it briefly on a plate before combining with the pasta helps retain juices.

Thank you for joining me in the kitchen for this zesty, creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta! It’s a bright and comforting dish that’s sure to become a staple in your home. If you try this recipe, please leave a comment or a rating—I’d love to hear how it turned out!