Description
This Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta is a quick and vibrant dinner featuring tender chicken pieces infused with fresh lemon and aromatic garlic, tossed in a creamy plant-based sauce that perfectly coats your pasta. Ready in under 30 minutes, it combines bright, fresh flavors with satisfying textures in a comforting yet refreshing dish ideal for weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, diced into bite-sized pieces
Produce
- 2 fresh lemons (juice and zest)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Pasta
- 12 oz pasta of your choice (spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
Pantry
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup plant-based cream
- 1 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 tsp natural gelling agent
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare and Season the Chicken: Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season generously with salt and pepper to ensure every piece is well-flavored. This step builds a strong taste base and preps the chicken for cooking.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and cooked through. This process locks in juiciness and forms a flavorful crust.
- Sauté Garlic and Add Lemon: Reduce heat slightly, then add minced garlic to the skillet. Stir constantly for about one minute until fragrant. Immediately add freshly squeezed lemon juice and lemon zest, stirring well to create a bright, aromatic flavor base.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the plant-based cream and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Stir to combine, then sprinkle in the natural gelling agent. Simmer gently for a few minutes while stirring, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld.
- Cook the Pasta: While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a small amount of pasta water before draining to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
- Combine and Finish: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce and chicken. Toss everything together over low heat, adding reserved pasta water gradually to achieve a silky texture. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Always use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest, most vibrant flavor.
- Do not overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
- Reserve pasta water to help bind and smooth out the sauce.
- Use the natural gelling agent sparingly to maintain sauce consistency without heaviness.
- Simmer the sauce gently to avoid separation and ensure a creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: International
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: lemon garlic chicken pasta, quick dinner, plant-based cream sauce, dairy-free pasta, weeknight meal
