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Zingy Lemon Chicken Pasta

Zingy Lemon Chicken Pasta recipe image
This Zingy Lemon Chicken Pasta is a delightful blend of bright citrus and creamy savory flavors. Tender chunks of chicken breast are saut&# 195;©ed until golden, then simmered in a light sauce made with chicken broth, milk, and fresh lemon juice. The dish is finished with a hint of mustard and gentle heat from cayenne, creating a complex yet comforting profile. Served over Radiatore or elbow macaroni, the ridges of the pasta hold the sauce beautifully. It’s a perfect solution for busy weeknights when you crave something homemade but low-effort. The combination of fresh green onions and garlic adds an aromatic punch that makes every bite satisfying. This dish is versatile enough to be served as a light main or alongside a crisp green salad.
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 4
Calories: 246.0
Dietary: Vegan
Description
This Zingy Lemon Chicken Pasta is a delightful blend of bright citrus and creamy savory flavors. Tender chunks of chicken breast are sautéed until golden, then simmered in a light sauce made with chicken broth, milk, and fresh lemon juice. The dish is finished with a hint of mustard and gentle heat from cayenne, creating a complex yet comforting profile. Served over Radiatore or elbow macaroni, the ridges of the pasta hold the sauce beautifully. It’s a perfect solution for busy weeknights when you crave something homemade but low-effort. The combination of fresh green onions and garlic adds an aromatic punch that makes every bite satisfying. This dish is versatile enough to be served as a light main or alongside a crisp green salad.
Ingredients
  • 8 ounce Radiatore or Elbow Macaroni
  • 4 pieces Chicken breast halves, boned, skinned, cut into 3/4-inch pieces
  • 5 stalks Green onions, sliced
  • 1 clove Garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Butter or margarine
  • 1 tablespoon Vegetable or olive oil
  • 1/4 cup All-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon Black pepper
  • 1/8 teaspoon Cayenne pepper
  • 1 1/3 cup Chicken broth
  • 2/3 cup Skim milk
  • 2 teaspoon Prepared mustard
  • 1/4 cup Fresh lemon juice
Directions
  1. 1
    Cook pasta according to package directions in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. 2
    In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
  3. 3
    Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and sliced green onions, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. 4
    Sprinkle flour, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper over the vegetables. Stir constantly for 1 minute to cook the raw flour taste out.
  5. 5
    Gradually whisk in chicken broth and skim milk, ensuring no lumps form. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  6. 6
    Stir in prepared mustard and fresh lemon juice. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
  7. 7
    Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss with the drained pasta until everything is well-coated in the sauce.
  8. 8
    Serve immediately while hot.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 246.0kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 1.8g3%
Saturated Fat 0.2g1%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 0.0mg0%
Total Carbohydrate 52.0g18%
Dietary Fiber 3.4g14%
Sugars 0.6g
Protein 8.8g18%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

You can substitute the chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version. For extra protein, add cooked shrimp or bacon bits.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.

For a richer sauce, use whole milk instead of skim milk. If you prefer a stronger lemon flavor, add a strip of lemon zest to the sauce while it simmers, then remove before serving.

Keywords: chicken, lemon, pasta, cream sauce, italian, weeknight dinner, macaroni, radiatore, garlic, green onion, easy recipe, comfort food, light meal, mustard sauce, quick cook, family friendly, sauteed chicken, citrus pasta, homemade dinner, simple recipe, chicken breast
Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/zingy-lemon-chicken-pasta/