This Easy Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta is a bright and fresh dish that is perfect for any night! Tender chicken, zesty lemon, and fragrant basil come together with pasta for a tasty meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using linguine for its flat shape that holds sauce well, but spaghetti or any long pasta works too. If you’re gluten-free, consider using rice noodles or gluten-free pasta as a substitute.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great because they cook quickly and remain tender. For a twist, try chicken thighs, which are juicier, or even shrimp if you prefer seafood.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil is key for that bright flavor. If you don’t have fresh, you can use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil, but the taste won’t be as fresh. Try adding parsley or spinach for a different green taste!
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten the dish. If you’re out of lemons, lime or vinegar can provide a nice tang, though the flavor will change slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: I recommend using freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor. Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano are good alternatives for a different taste. If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor.
How Do I Cook Chicken Perfectly?
Cooking chicken breasts can be tricky, but here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with even thickness: Pound the chicken to an even thickness for faster, uniform cooking.
- Season well: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper; it’s essential for flavor.
- Preheat your skillet: Make sure it’s hot before adding oil and chicken. This helps sear the chicken, keeping it juicy.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give the chicken space. If they’re too close, they’ll steam instead of brown.
- Let it rest: After cooking, let the chicken sit for a few minutes. This keeps the juices inside.
By following these steps, you’ll end up with deliciously cooked chicken for your pasta!
Easy Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (plus more for cooking)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- Lemon wedges, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 25 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but delicious enough to impress your guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add your linguine or spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until the pasta is al dente. Careful not to overcook! Drain the pasta, but make sure to keep about half a cup of the pasta water aside. You’ll need that later!
2. Seasoning the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and black pepper. This is where you can add extra flavors if you like!
3. Cooking the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and fully cooked. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
4. Sautéing the Garlic:
Using the same skillet, and adding a little more olive oil if needed, sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s fragrant, but be careful not to burn it!
5. Adding Tomatoes and Flavor:
Add your diced tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until they soften up. Then, stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and chopped basil, allowing those vibrant flavors to meld together.
6. Combining Everything:
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water (about 1/4 cup). Toss everything well to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce.
7. Finishing Touches:
Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese and taste your dish. You might want to add a bit more salt and pepper at this point. Don’t be afraid to adjust the flavors to your liking!
8. Serving:
Plate the pasta and top it with the sliced chicken breasts. Garnish everything with extra Parmesan, fresh basil leaves, and a few lemon wedges for a lovely presentation.
9. Enjoy:
Dig in immediately and enjoy the fresh, zesty flavors of your lemon basil chicken pasta!
This recipe pairs the brightness of lemon and basil with savory, grilled chicken and al dente pasta, topped off with Parmesan for a delicious, easy weeknight meal.
FAQ
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely first! To thaw quickly, place the chicken in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about 1 hour. Pat it dry before cooking to ensure it sears nicely in the skillet.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
No worries! If fresh basil isn’t available, you can use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil as a substitute. Keep in mind that dried herbs are more concentrated, so a little goes a long way! Alternatively, you could use parsley or spinach for a different green flavor.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the pasta gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly. You may want to add a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil to revive the dish!
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Absolutely! To make it vegan, substitute the chicken with grilled veggies or tofu, and replace the Parmesan with a vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor. Just ensure the pasta is egg-free, which many types are!
