Introduction
If you’re craving a creamy, comforting pasta dish with a fresh twist, this Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta is exactly what you need. Packed with tender rotisserie chicken, zesty lemon, and a luscious cream cheese-based sauce, it’s a meal that’s bursting with flavor in every bite. The perfect balance of creamy and tangy, this pasta is an easy weeknight dinner that feels gourmet. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken! Let’s dive into how you can make this deliciously creamy, lemon-infused pasta.
Detailed Ingredients 🛒🍝🍋
- 12 ounces pasta (rotini, farfalle, or similar) 🍝
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 🧈
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 🫒
- 3 medium garlic cloves, minced 🧄
- 4 ounces cream cheese, cut into cubes 🧀
- ½ cup dry white wine 🍷
- 2 medium lemons, zested and juiced 🍋
- 1 cup sour cream 🥄
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 🌾
- 2 cups chicken broth 🍗
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper 🌶️
- Salt and pepper, to taste 🧂
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided 🧀
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme 🌿
- 4 cups chopped rotisserie chicken (or cooked chicken) 🍗
Direction
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook for 6 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Reduce the heat to low, and add the cream cheese, stirring until melted.
- Stir in the white wine and lemon juice, and let it simmer.
- In a separate bowl, stir together the flour and sour cream, then add this mixture to the skillet.
- Pour in the chicken broth, add crushed red pepper, and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Remove the pan from the heat and stir in ½ cup Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and fresh thyme.
- Add the partially cooked pasta and chopped chicken to the pan and stir until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and top with the remaining Parmesan cheese.
- Cover and bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the top is lightly browned and bubbly.
My Story
I’ve always been a fan of pasta dishes, especially ones that are creamy and comforting. But I wanted something with a little more zing to break through all that richness. That’s when I decided to bring in the bright, refreshing flavor of lemon. It was a game-changer! Adding the creamy base of cream cheese and sour cream, then pairing it with the tangy lemon and fresh herbs, created a balance I hadn’t expected. Plus, using leftover rotisserie chicken made this dish even easier. My family absolutely loved it, and I couldn’t wait to share it with all of you. It’s become a staple in our home for those nights when we crave something creamy but with a twist.
FAQ
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes! You can substitute the pasta with any variety you prefer, such as penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
Q: What if I don’t have rotisserie chicken?
A: No problem! You can cook your own chicken breast or thighs and shred them, or even use leftover cooked chicken from another meal.
Q: Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt, use low-fat cream cheese, and choose a lighter pasta.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Yes, this pasta freezes well! Just let it cool down, then store it in an airtight container. To reheat, bake in the oven until warmed through.
Q: Can I use a different cheese?
A: You can substitute the Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor or use mozzarella for a creamier texture.
Suggestion
- Add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or peas for extra nutrition and color.
- Top with toasted breadcrumbs for a crunchy texture that contrasts the creamy pasta.
- Serve with a side salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to complement the fresh lemony flavor.
- Use grilled chicken for an even smokier flavor.
- Add some spice by mixing in a little extra crushed red pepper for a kick.
Conclusion
This Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta is the perfect balance of creamy and tangy, with a velvety sauce that coats each bite of tender pasta. The lemon adds a refreshing twist that brightens the entire dish, making it feel fresh and flavorful. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. The creamy texture, the pop of lemon, and the juicy chicken all work together to create a meal that’s comforting yet light enough to enjoy year-round. Try this one out, and I guarantee it’ll become a go-to in your recipe collection!
— Sarah Cooper
