Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh lemon flavor that brightens every bite
• Creamy Parmesan sauce made in minutes
• Perfectly grilled chicken for extra flavor
• ⏱ Quick and easy — ready in under 30 minutes

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 Tbsp)
• 3 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 Tbsp minced garlic
• 1 tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp dried basil or oregano
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

For the Pasta

• 2 cups dried penne pasta
• 2 Tbsp butter
• Juice of 2 lemons (about 6 Tbsp)
• 1 Tbsp minced garlic
• ½ cup half and half or heavy cream
• 2 tsp dried basil
• 2 Tbsp capers
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Marinate & Cook the Chicken

1. In a bowl, combine lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and basil (or oregano).
2. Place chicken breasts in a ziplock bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal and refrigerate for at least a few hours or overnight for best flavor.
3. When ready to cook, grill the chicken over medium heat until fully cooked through and golden on the outside.
4. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips to serve over the pasta.

2. Cook the Pasta

1. While the chicken grills, cook the pasta according to package directions (about 10–12 minutes).
2. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of the pasta water. Drain and set pasta aside.

3. Make the Lemon Cream Sauce

1. In the same saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and lemon juice, whisking until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Pour in half and half (or cream) and whisk until the mixture is hot and slightly thickened.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add Parmesan cheese, basil, and capers. Stir until the cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
6. If the sauce feels too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it.

4. Combine & Serve

1. Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce until evenly coated.
2. Divide into pasta bowls and top with sliced grilled chicken.
3. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese and a touch of fresh basil or parsley, if desired.

Enjoy warm and creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta — comfort food with a fresh twist!

Pro Tips

• Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
• Don’t skip resting the chicken — it keeps the meat juicy.
• If using heavy cream instead of half and half, the sauce will be richer and thicker.
• Add a handful of baby spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with garlic bread and a crisp green salad.
• Pair with a chilled glass of white wine for an elegant dinner.
• Great for date nights, family dinners, or meal prepping.