Lemon Chicken Mushroom Pasta

This Lemon Chicken Mushroom Pasta is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal to impress. Juicy chicken, savory mushrooms, and a zesty lemon sauce combine to create a dish that feels both comforting and refined.

Course: Main Course                                        Cuisine: American, Italian, Mediterranean

Prep Time: 10 minutes                                     Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes                                    Servings: 4

Recipe Tools You Use:

1. Garlic Press
2. Wire whisk
3. a big pot
4. Sharp knife
5. bowl
6. skillet
7. kitchen tongs
8. Microplane

Lemon Chicken Mushroom Pasta Recipe Video:

Credit: Get Curried

Ingredients

1. 2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced
2. 8 oz pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or penne work well)
3. 2 tbsp olive oil
4. 2 tbsp unsalted butter
5. 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (button, cremini, or baby bella)
6. 3 cloves garlic, minced
7. 1 cup chicken broth
8. ½ cup heavy cream (optional)
9. ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
10. 1 tsp lemon zest
11. ½ tsp dried thyme
12. Salt and pepper, to taste
13. ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
14. 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Toss in the pasta and cook it until it’s al dente, following the instructions on the package.
• Make sure to save ½ cup of the pasta water before draining the rest, then set it aside.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

• Season chicken slices with salt and pepper.
• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through.
• Remove chicken and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms

• In the same pan, warm up 1 tablespoon of olive oil along with 1 tablespoon of butter.
• Add mushrooms and sauté for 5-6 minutes until browned and tender. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt to help them release moisture.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Deglaze

• Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until it becomes aromatic.
• Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Make the Lemon Sauce

• Lower the heat and add lemon juice, zest, and thyme.
• To achieve a creamy texture, mix in the heavy cream. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken a bit.

Step 6: Combine and Toss

• Place the chicken back into the skillet, then add the cooked pasta. Stir everything together to ensure it’s well coated in the sauce.
• If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.

Step 7: Add Parmesan and Garnish

• Stir in Parmesan cheese, then taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
• Sprinkle fresh parsley and extra Parmesan on top.

Step 8: Serve

• Serve warm, with a wedge of lemon on the side for a final burst of flavor.

Tips

• Pasta Choice: This dish pairs beautifully with long noodles like linguine, but penne or bowties work just as well.
• Mushroom Variety: For a richer taste, opt for cremini mushrooms, though any variety will do.
• Dairy-Free Option: Skip the cream and swap butter for more olive oil.
• Storage: Store leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for a maximum of 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or water to revive the sauce.

This Lemon Chicken Mushroom Pasta delivers a perfect balance of creamy, zesty, and savory flavors. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special occasion, this dish is a winner every time.

Nutrition Information:

Health Benefits of Lemon Chicken Mushroom Pasta:

1. Rich in Protein: Chicken supports muscle repair and growth.
2. Immune Boosting: Lemon juice provides Vitamin C, enhancing immunity.
3. Bone Health: Mushrooms are a natural source of Vitamin D.
4. Aids Digestion: Pasta’s fiber content supports healthy digestion.
5. Promotes Energy: Carbs in pasta provide sustained energy.
6. Heart Health: Olive oil contains healthy fats that benefit the heart.
7. Antioxidant Support: Garlic and mushrooms help reduce oxidative stress.
8. Supports Weight Management: Lean chicken and mushrooms are low-calorie yet filling.
9. Improves Skin Health: Lemon juice’s antioxidants promote a glowing complexion.
10. Mood Enhancer: Mushrooms contain selenium, which supports a positive mood.

Storage Instructions:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Avoid freezing as the texture of the pasta and mushrooms may change.
• Prevent Drying Out: Keep the dish moist by adding a small splash of chicken broth or cream before storing.

Reheat & Reuse Instructions:

Reheating:

• In a skillet, warm on low heat with a splash of broth or water to maintain creaminess.
• Microwave on medium power, stirring halfway through, to avoid drying out.

Reuse Ideas:

• Casserole: Layer the pasta with extra cheese and bake for a hearty dish.
• Soup: Add broth and chopped spinach for a quick soup.
• Stuffed Peppers: Use as a filling for bell peppers, then bake.
• Salad Base: Toss with arugula or spinach for a warm pasta salad.

This Lemon Chicken Mushroom Pasta is a comforting, flavorful dish with fresh and wholesome ingredients. Perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner, it’s a recipe the whole family will enjoy.

FAQ’s

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