This Easy Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta is a light and fresh dish featuring tender chicken, zesty lemon, and fragrant basil. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
I love how all the flavors come together in a tasty way, and it only takes about 30 minutes to make! This pasta is a go-to when I need a delicious meal without all the fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Linguine or spaghetti works well here. If you’re looking for gluten-free options, try brown rice pasta or gluten-free spaghetti. Both will still taste great!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal, but you can use thighs for a richer flavor. If you’re vegetarian, feel free to swap in chickpeas or tofu.
Basil: Fresh basil adds a lovely aroma. If you can’t find fresh, you can use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil. It’s not quite the same, but it’ll still give some herbiness!
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten the dish. If you’re out of lemons, you can substitute with a tablespoon of white wine vinegar or a splash of bottled lemon juice.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan brings a creamy, salty finish. If you’re lactose intolerant, try nutritional yeast or a dairy-free alternative to give that cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do You Cook Chicken for This Recipe?
Cooking the chicken to perfection is essential for this dish. Here’s a simple guide to get it just right:
- Start with even chicken breasts to ensure they cook evenly. If they’re thick, consider pounding them down a bit.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance flavor. Don’t be shy!
- Heat your skillet on medium-high. This allows for a nice sear, giving you a delicious golden crust.
- Add the chicken and let it cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes. Flip when it’s golden brown. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C for fully cooked chicken.
- After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This keeps it juicy before you slice it.
These steps will help you achieve perfectly cooked chicken to complement your pasta dish perfectly!
Easy Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti pasta
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
For the Sauce and Flavor:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large tomato, diced
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
For Serving:
- Optional: lemon wedges for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe is quick and easy! You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking, which totals around 30 minutes for a delicious meal. Perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the linguine or spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and cooked through (check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the diced tomato and cook for 2-3 minutes until they soften a bit.
4. Combine Everything:
Reduce the heat and add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped basil, and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve:
Plate your pasta and top it with the sliced chicken. Garnish with more Parmesan cheese, freshly ground black pepper, and lemon wedges on the side if you like. Serve immediately and enjoy the bright, fresh flavors!
This dish brings together the fantastic flavors of lemon and basil, paired with tender chicken and simple pasta, creating a satisfying meal in no time!
FAQ for Easy Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While linguine or spaghetti are great choices, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fettuccine. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, chickpeas or tofu can be excellent substitutes. For vegan options, make sure to skip the Parmesan or use a vegan alternative to keep the dish plant-based!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat. You may need to add a splash of water or olive oil to keep it from drying out.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Sure! If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when sautéing the garlic. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste!
