This Easy Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta is a bright and refreshing meal! With juicy chicken, zesty lemon, and fragrant basil, it ties everything together with a simple, delicious sauce.
I love how quick it is to whip up, making it perfect for a weekday dinner. Plus, who wouldn’t want a bowl of lemony goodness? 🍋 Just serve with a sprinkle of cheese on top!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I like using linguine for its perfect surface to hold the sauce. However, spaghetti is just as great. If you’re gluten-free, you can swap it for your favorite gluten-free pasta type.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the best for this dish. If you want a quicker option, feel free to use rotisserie chicken instead. Just shred it and toss it at the end!
Fresh Tomatoes: Fresh diced tomatoes bring a juicy flavor. If they’re out of season, canned diced tomatoes work well too. Just drain them before adding to prevent extra liquid.
Basil: Fresh basil is key for that aromatic flavor. If you don’t have fresh, you can use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil, but fresh really gives it a vibrant taste.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a wonderful cheesy finish. If you’re vegetarian, just check the label; some Parmesan isn’t made with animal rennet. Pecorino Romano is a great substitute too!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Chicken for This Pasta?
Cooking the chicken properly helps keep it juicy and flavorful. Here’s how to do it right:
- First, make sure your skillet is hot before adding the oil and chicken. This helps to sear the chicken and lock in moisture.
- Only flip the chicken once during cooking to allow for even browning, about 5-7 minutes per side.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making it tender and delicious when you slice it.
By following these tips, your chicken will be a star of the dish!
Easy Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti pasta
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- Lemon wedges, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and easy option for a weeknight meal, leaving you with plenty of time to enjoy your delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine or spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside, but remember to reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta water for later use!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While your pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper to taste. This will enhance their flavor. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet, let them rest for a few minutes, and then slice them into strips.
3. Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic until it becomes fragrant, which should take about 1 minute. Then, add the diced fresh tomatoes and cook them for 2-3 minutes until they soften a bit.
4. Combine Everything:
Reduce the heat to low and add the cooked pasta, lemon zest, lemon juice, and chopped basil to the skillet. Toss everything together gently, adding the reserved pasta water a little at a time to help loosen the sauce. You want everything to be well mixed and coated with that lovely lemon-basil flavor.
5. Final Touches:
Stir in the 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until it’s fully combined. To serve, plate the pasta and layer the sliced chicken breasts on top. Sprinkle extra Parmesan over everything and add a twist of freshly cracked black pepper for a final flavorful punch.
6. Garnish and Serve:
For a cheerful touch, garnish your dish with lemon wedges and additional basil if you have some. Serve immediately and enjoy your fresh, zesty, and flavorful Easy Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta!
FAQ for Easy Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While linguine or spaghetti works well, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, like fettuccine or penne. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package for the best results.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
If fresh basil isn’t available, you can substitute with about 1 teaspoon of dried basil. Just add it when you sautĂ© the garlic for a bit of flavor, but keep in mind that fresh basil adds a brighter taste!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or water to refresh the sauce.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Definitely! You can omit the chicken and add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Tofu or chickpeas can also be great protein substitutes for a heartier meal.
