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One-Pot Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 650
A flavorful and easy one-pot dish combining tender chicken, pasta, and a zesty lemon garlic sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Marinade

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch cubes)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 zest lemon (zest of 1 lemon)

For the Pasta and Sauce

  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 small yellow onion (finely chopped)
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (32 oz or 950 ml)
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (8 oz or 240 ml)
  • 1 lb dried pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine, about 450g)
  • 0.25 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (from 1-2 lemons)
  • 5 oz fresh baby spinach
  • 0.5 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)

For garnish

  • to taste fresh parsley (chopped)
  • optional red pepper flakes (for a touch of heat)

Instructions 

  • Combine chicken, 1 tbsp olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Marinate for 15 minutes.
  • Sear the chicken in a large pot until golden, then remove and set aside.
  • Sauté onion and garlic in the same pot, then add chicken broth and cream. Bring to a simmer.
  • Add pasta, cook until al dente, then stir in lemon juice, Parmesan, and spinach. Return chicken to the pot and serve garnished.

Notes

For best flavor, use fresh lemon juice and high-quality Parmesan cheese.
Calories: 650kcal
Cost: $15
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Chicken, lemon, Pasta