Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta with Garlic and Parmesan - Cook & Eat Good

Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta combines tender chicken, zesty lemon, fragrant herbs, and creamy Parmesan cheese into one delightful meal. The garlic adds a punch of flavor, while the lemon and herbs keep it light and refreshing. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just for yourself, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start cooking, make sure you have all the ingredients ready:

• 2 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
• 8 oz pasta (your choice; spaghetti or fettuccine work great)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Optional: red pepper flakes (for a bit of heat)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Be sure to cook it until it’s firm to the bite. Once done, drain the pasta, but save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water. This will help to make your sauce creamy later on.

2. Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half of the dried oregano and basil. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.

3. Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the minced garlic. Cook the garlic for about 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant and golden brown. Be careful not to burn it!

4. Make the Sauce

Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and the remaining oregano and basil to the skillet with the garlic. Stir everything together, then add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the pan. If the mixture seems a bit dry, slowly add some of the reserved pasta water until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

5. Finish with Parmesan and Herbs

Once everything is well combined, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. The cheese will melt into the sauce, making it creamy and rich. If you like a little spice, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top.

6. Serve and Enjoy!

Your Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta with Garlic and Parmesan is now ready to be served! Plate it up and garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or some crusty garlic bread.