This Easy Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta is a fresh and tasty dish that brings bright flavors to your dinner table. With juicy chicken, zesty lemon, and fragrant basil, it’s hard to resist!
I love how quick this meal comes together. Just cook the pasta, sauté the chicken, and toss everything in a pan. Your taste buds will thank you for this delightful combo! 🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend linguine or fettuccine for this dish, but you can easily swap in spaghetti or penne if that’s what you have. Just keep an eye on cooking times to keep everything perfect!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best for quick cooking. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using turkey cutlets. You can also use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.
Olive Oil: This is my go-to oil for sautéing. If you’re in a pinch, other neutral oils like canola or avocado oil will work too. You could even use butter for a richer flavor!
Fresh Basil: The aroma and taste of fresh basil really shine in this dish. If you don’t have it on hand, dried basil can be used; just remember to use about a third of the amount, since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a lovely salty finish. For a lactose-free option, look for lactose-free Parmesan or nutritional yeast as a cheesy substitute.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken perfectly can sometimes be tricky! Here are some tips to help you out:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken for a nice sear.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer if you have one; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy. Slicing it too soon can let all the juices escape!
Following these tips will help you serve beautifully cooked chicken in your pasta.
Easy Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces linguine or fettuccine pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 large tomato, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare, making it a quick and tasty option for a weeknight dinner. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta, and about 20 minutes to prepare the chicken and sauce. Easy, right?
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once it’s bubbling, add the linguine or fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. After cooking, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Preparing the Chicken:
While the pasta cooks, season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken to the hot pan and cook it for about 5-6 minutes on each side until it is golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.
3. Making the Flavorful Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Then, toss in the chopped tomato and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to soften but still hold its shape. After that, stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and chopped basil, cooking for an additional minute to blend those vibrant flavors.
4. Tossing It All Together:
Now, return the drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together to coat the pasta well with the lemon basil sauce. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
5. Serving the Dish:
Finally, plate the pasta and top it with the sliced chicken. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, and optional lemon wedges to squeeze over the top. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious meal!
This bright, flavorful pasta dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation!
FAQ About Easy Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While linguine or fettuccine works great, feel free to substitute with any pasta you have on hand, such as spaghetti, penne, or even gluten-free pasta. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make this a vegetarian dish, simply replace the chicken with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. You can also add chickpeas or tofu for added protein. Just follow the same cooking instructions for the veggies!
What Can I Do with Leftover Pasta?
Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or a little water to help rehydrate it and prevent it from drying out.
Can I Use Dried Basil Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can! If you’re using dried basil, use about one-third of the amount (1 tablespoon) since it’s more concentrated. Add it to the skillet at the same time as the garlic to help release its flavors.
