This Easy Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta is a bright and fresh dish that brings smiles at the dinner table. Tender chicken, zesty lemon, and fragrant basil come together perfectly!
You can whip it up in no time, making it a go-to for busy nights. I love squeezing extra lemon on top for that extra zing. Lemon lovers, this one’s for you! 🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using linguine or spaghetti for this dish. If you prefer a gluten-free option, try brown rice pasta or zucchini noodles. They maintain a lovely texture and flavor.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. You can substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier option or use grilled shrimp for a seafood twist. Those who prefer plant-based options can replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas!
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten up the pasta. If fresh lemons aren’t available, bottled lemon juice works too—just use a little less to avoid an overpowering flavor.
Basil: Fresh basil is key here for that aromatic flavor. If fresh basil is not on hand, use dried basil instead; however, use less since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice finish. For a dairy-free alternative, nutritional yeast or a sprinkle of almond-based parmesan can mimic that cheesy flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken just right ensures it’s juicy and tender. Here are some steps to follow:
- Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest after cooking; this allows juices to redistribute, making it more tender.
- Slice against the grain for better texture when serving. This helps keep each piece juicy!
By focusing on these details, you’ll have perfect chicken every time in your lemon basil pasta!
Easy Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped, plus whole leaves for garnish
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta recipe will take approximately 30 minutes in total—about 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. A quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the linguine or spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. After cooking, drain the pasta but be sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the pasta cooks, take your chicken breasts and season them generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. This adds great flavor to the chicken.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice golden-brown color. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for a minute or two.
4. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet that you cooked the chicken, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Allow it to heat for a moment, then add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, being careful not to let it burn. Next, add the diced tomatoes and cook for around 3-4 minutes until they’ve softened.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Now it’s time to add the cooked pasta to the skillet with your tomato and garlic mixture. Toss everything together to combine nicely. Then, stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped basil, and grated Parmesan cheese. If the pasta seems a bit dry, add a splash of your reserved pasta water to get the perfect consistency. Season with more salt and pepper to taste.
6. Slice the Chicken:
While the pasta absorbs all those beautiful flavors, slice the rested chicken into strips. This will make it easy to serve on top of the pasta.
7. Plate and Serve:
To serve, plate the lemon basil pasta and top it with the sliced chicken. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for a nice touch. Add lemon wedges on the side if you like a tangy burst of flavor. Enjoy your warm and delicious meal!
This dish is bright and fresh, combining flavors of lemon and basil with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a delightful meal ready to impress! Enjoy your easy lemon basil chicken pasta!
FAQ for Easy Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great alternative that adds extra fiber to your meal. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary slightly from traditional pasta.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Basil?
If fresh basil isn’t available, you can use dried basil as a substitute. Generally, use 1/3 of the amount called for in the recipe since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor. Alternatively, try parsley for a different fresh taste.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the ingredients and cook the chicken ahead of time! Just store everything separately in the fridge. When ready to eat, reheat the pasta and sauce together, and top with warmed chicken for the best results.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or extra olive oil to keep it moist, and warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
