Lemon Parmesan Pasta
Lemon Parmesan Pasta is a creamy, bright pasta dish made with tender chicken, fresh lemon, butter, cream, and aged Parmesan, creating a balanced and satisfying meal that comes together quickly.
- 12 oz linguine pasta
- 2 fresh lemons zested and juiced
- 2 tbsp European-style butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup finely grated aged Parmesan cheese
- 1 lb chicken breast cut into 1½-inch pieces
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp Italian herbs
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Season chicken with paprika, Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper, keeping pieces about 1½ inches for even cooking.
Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat and cook chicken 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through, then remove.
Lower heat, add garlic to the same pan, cook briefly, then stir in lemon zest and lemon juice.
Cook linguine in salted boiling water until al dente, reserving ½ cup pasta water before draining.
Add heavy cream to the skillet, warm gently, then stir in Parmesan and garlic powder until smooth, thinning with pasta water if needed.
Toss pasta with the sauce, top with chicken, and finish with parsley and black pepper before serving.