Chicken Lemon Zucchini Pasta

Last updated on October 7th, 2024 at 05:06 pm

This zesty, creamy chicken lemon zucchini pasta will become a family favorite! It is easy and the leftovers are always delicious!

The flavors of lemon, tender slices of chicken, fresh zucchini and yellow squash mixed in with the creamy richness of heavy cream and parmesan cheese will make every forkful bursting with refreshing citrus flavor and creamy goodness.

This post is all about the best creamy lemon zucchini pasta recipe that will be perfect for meal prep throughout the week and will become a weekly dinner menu item! Keep reading to find the 10 tips for the perfect pasta every time!

One sunny afternoon, my husband and his grandma bonded over a shared love for cooking. With flour on their hands and laughter in the air, they concocted this simple chicken pasta recipes bursting with lemony goodness. As they cooked, the kitchen filled with the scent of citrus, and memories of Grandma’s kitchen flooded back.

Years later, he shared this cherished recipe with our own little family, passing down not just a dish, but love and tradition.

This simple yet delicious easy chicken pasta recipes pasta quickly became our go-to meal, perfect for weekly dinners and easy meal prepping.

With each bite, you will experience a satisfying dish that will become your favorite dinner recipe and an easy meal prep for lunches!

Cheesy Lemon Chicken Pasta Ingredients:

Chicken Breasts- Lean protein.

Yellow Squash: Adds sweetness to the flavor.

Zucchini: Adds sweetness to flavor.

Heavy Cream: Creates a creamy sauce, adding richness and depth of flavor.

Lemon: Adding a refreshing and zesty taste.

Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty and nutty flavor to the dish.

Noodle: Substitute with any noodle because this recipe is that good! Linguine is a favorite.

Creamy lemon zucchini pasta instructions:

1. Cook noodles until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, add chicken breasts and cook until golden brown – (about 4-5 minutes per side).
4. Add minced garlic.
5. Add sliced zucchini and yellow squash. Cook until tender.
6. Add lemon juice.
7. Pour heavy cream and parmesan cheese, stirring until well-combined.
8. Add the noodle into the creamy lemon sauce.
9. Serve and garnish with parsley.

10 Creamy Lemon Zucchini Pasta Tips:

1. Use pasta that holds sauce well, such as fettuccine, linguine, or penne. Cook it al dente so it doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the sauce.

2. Go for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Pound them to an even thickness for uniform cooking.

3. Marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon zest, garlic, and herbs (like thyme or rosemary) for at least 30 minutes to infuse flavor.

4. Sear the chicken in a hot pan to create a golden-brown crust, which adds flavor and texture. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan.

5. Use fresh lemon juice and zest for a bright, tangy flavor. Avoid bottled lemon juice, which can taste artificial.

6. Start your sauce with a combination of butter and garlic for richness. Then add heavy cream or a mix of cream and milk for a balanced creaminess.

7. Incorporate grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese into the sauce. This not only adds a savory element but also helps to thicken the sauce.

8. Balance Flavors: Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the lemon. Add lemon zest for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

9. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water can help loosen the sauce and make it cling to the pasta better.

10. Garnish the finished dish with fresh parsley or basil for color and a fresh, herby finish. A sprinkle of lemon zest on top can also enhance the lemony aroma.