There is something truly magical about comfort food that comes together effortlessly, and this One-Pot Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe absolutely nails it. Imagine tender, perfectly seasoned chicken pieces simmered with vibrant lemon zest and juice, melding into al dente pasta all cooked in one pan for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup. This dish bursts with bright, savory notes that feel fresh yet cozy, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or an impressive but easy meal to share with friends. If you adore dishes that balance zestiness and creaminess with a simple preparation, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to turning this One-Pot Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe into a memorable feast. Each item contributes a specific texture or flavor to create harmony in the dish, from the juicy chicken to the fragrant herbs and sharp parmesan cheese.
- 1½ lb boneless skinless chicken breasts: Provides tender, juicy protein that soaks up all the flavors.
- 1 Tbsp garlic and herb seasoning: Infuses savory depth and an aromatic punch to the chicken.
- 1 Tbsp olive oil: Perfect for sautéing the chicken to a golden brown while keeping it moist.
- 1 tsp minced garlic: Adds a fragrant richness that complements the lemon beautifully.
- ¼ cup lemon juice: Delivers a fresh, tangy brightness that wakes up the whole dish.
- 1 tsp lemon zest: Enhances the citrus flavor with an extra layer of vibrant aroma.
- ½ tsp onion powder: Gives subtle sweetness and depth without overpowering other ingredients.
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning: Brings a Mediterranean herb blend that balances the lemon’s acidity.
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Acts as the cooking liquid that flavors and cooks the pasta evenly.
- 12 oz penne pasta: A sturdy shape that holds sauce well and cooks to perfect tenderness.
- 1 Tbsp butter: Adds luxurious creaminess and a smooth finish to the sauce.
- 3 Tbsp grated parmesan cheese: Provides a salty, nutty kick that ties everything together.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that enhance every bite.
How to Make One-Pot Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook quickly and absorb all those incredible flavors. Sprinkle the garlic and herb seasoning evenly over the chicken, making sure every morsel is coated. This step layers the aromatic herbs right at the start, which will develop beautifully during cooking.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken and Garlic
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat—this is where the magic begins as the chicken browns to lock in its juiciness. Add the seasoned chicken and sauté for about 5 to 6 minutes until every piece shows a lovely golden crust. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until it releases its fragrant aroma. Then, remove the chicken from the pan temporarily to make room for the next step.
Step 3: Simmer Pasta and Flavorful Broth
Into the same skillet, pour in lemon juice, lemon zest, chicken broth, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and the penne pasta. Bring everything to a rolling boil, then lower the heat to medium and let it simmer. During the next 10 to 12 minutes, watch as the pasta softens and absorbs that vibrant lemony broth full of herbal goodness.
Step 4: Finish with Chicken, Butter, and Parmesan
Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has cooked away, return the chicken to the skillet. Stir everything together until the chicken is heated through. Remove the pan from heat and gently stir in the butter and grated parmesan cheese, allowing them to melt and create a luscious, silky sauce. Finish with salt and pepper according to your taste, and get ready to dive into a wonderfully comforting plate.
How to Serve One-Pot Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can elevate this One-Pot Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe to something truly special. Consider sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or basil on top to add a pop of color and a burst of herbal freshness. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a scatter of red pepper flakes can add an extra kick if you enjoy a bit of spice.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own but pairs beautifully with crisp, fresh side salads such as arugula with a lemon vinaigrette or a simple mixed green salad. For something heartier, roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli with garlic and lemon can complement and echo the flavors in the pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving this pasta in deep pasta bowls makes it inviting and cozy. For gatherings, consider plating it in individual ramekins or serving family-style straight from the skillet for a warm, casual feel. Garnish each plate artistically with lemon slices or microgreens to impress your guests without extra fuss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers of the One-Pot Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time, but be sure to add a splash of broth or water when reheating to keep the pasta from drying out.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well! Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture and flavor integrity.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave with a small amount of chicken broth stirred in. This helps maintain the creamy consistency and keeps the chicken tender rather than chewy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta in this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne works perfectly because of its shape and sturdiness, you can swap in other short pastas like rigatoni, fusilli, or rotini. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure your pasta remains al dente.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Simply omit the butter and parmesan or substitute with dairy-free alternatives. Nutritional yeast is a popular choice to replicate the cheesy flavor without dairy.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when you add the garlic, or sprinkle some cayenne pepper into the broth. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side to let everyone adjust the heat to their liking.
Can this be made in advance for meal prep?
This One-Pot Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe holds up well to meal prep. Cook as directed, then portion into containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just reheat gently to maintain texture.
What can I do if I don’t have fresh lemon zest?
While fresh lemon zest adds the best brightness, you can use dried lemon peel or a little extra lemon juice to compensate. Just be cautious with the amount to avoid overpowering the dish.
Final Thoughts
Trying the One-Pot Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe is like giving yourself a delicious hug at the end of a busy day. The simplicity of the steps combined with the brightness of the lemon and the richness from parmesan make it an unbeatable combo. I hope this recipe becomes a staple in your kitchen, bringing comfort and a burst of sunshine to your table with every bite.
Print
One-Pot Lemon Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This One-Pot Lemon Chicken Pasta is a quick, flavorful dish combining tender chicken, zesty lemon, and perfectly cooked penne pasta all in one skillet. Perfect for a busy weeknight, it offers a comforting yet bright meal that’s easy to prepare and clean up.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1½ lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 Tbsp garlic and herb seasoning
Cooking & Flavoring
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- ¼ cup lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- salt and pepper (to taste)
Other Ingredients
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 Tbsp butter
- 3 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Cut boneless chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces and season thoroughly with garlic and herb seasoning, ensuring every piece is well-coated for maximum flavor.
- Sauté the chicken and garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5-6 minutes until browned on all sides. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to keep warm.
- Cook pasta in broth and lemon mixture: Into the same skillet, add lemon juice, lemon zest, chicken broth, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and the penne pasta. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium and simmer uncovered. Cook until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Combine chicken and finish: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir gently to warm through. Remove skillet from heat, then stir in butter and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Finally, season with salt and black pepper to your taste before serving.
Notes
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
- For extra zest, add a little more lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.
- Make sure to stir occasionally while cooking the pasta to prevent it from sticking to the skillet.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To make this dish gluten-free, substitute penne pasta with gluten-free pasta.
