Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta
This creamy lemon pasta is bursting with flavor from juicy, tender chicken, spinach, and a rich and cheesy lemon cream sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the perfect quick and comforting dinner to add to your weekly rotation!
Servings: 4
Calories: 310kcal
Ingredients
- 12 ounces uncooked pasta regular or gluten free
- 16 ounces chicken thighs or breast boneless and skinless
- 1 teaspoon salt kosher
- ¼ teaspoon white pepper
- 5 Tablespoons unsalted butter divided
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ⅓ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 lemons zest and juice
- 1 Tablespoon mascarpone cheese or cream cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ⅓ cup parmesan cheese
- 5 ounces fresh spinach
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt, then cook the pasta until al dente according to the package instructions.
- Cut the chicken into 1 inch pieces and season with salt and pepper.
- In a high-sided skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter with the oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and brown on all sides, stirring frequently. Cook until the chicken is cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Remove the chicken to a clean plate, cover to keep warm, and set aside.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the garlic, red pepper, and lemon zest. Cook for 1 minute. Add the lemon juice and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Add the mascarpone cheese, heavy cream and parm. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and whisk in the remaining butter to emulsify the sauce. Add the spinach, cooked chicken, and pasta back to the pan. Stir to coat, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Cream cheese is the best substitute for mascarpone cheese.
- To add a fresh herb flavor try fresh parsley or basil.
🌡️Storing Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. I don’t recommend freezing. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until fully heated through.Leave a review or get more information on the recipe!
