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Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta

Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta

  • Author: Jonathan
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta is a vibrant and quick dinner recipe featuring juicy chicken breast, smoked turkey bacon, fresh herbs, and creamy (plant-based) cheese in a light, zesty lemon garlic sauce. This dish combines bright flavors and hearty textures for a satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights, with easy-to-follow steps and adaptable ingredients to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Pasta

  • 2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
  • 4 slices smoked turkey bacon, chopped
  • 8 ounces gluten-free spaghetti or fettuccine

Fresh Ingredients

  • 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon, juiced and zested
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped

Sauce Ingredients

  • 1/3 cup creamy (plant-based) cheese
  • 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken and Smoked Turkey Bacon: Season the chicken breasts with salt and freshly ground pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then cook the chicken breasts until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and set aside. In the same skillet, crisp up the chopped smoked turkey bacon pieces until browned and slightly crunchy to develop smoky flavor.
  2. Cook the Pasta: While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gluten-free pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about one cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.
  3. Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce: Lower the skillet heat to medium. Add more olive oil if necessary. Sauté the minced fresh garlic gently until fragrant but not browned. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, apple cider vinegar, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well, then whisk in the creamy (plant-based) cheese and natural gelling agent until the sauce thickens slightly.
  4. Combine All Ingredients: Slice the cooked chicken breasts into strips and return them to the skillet along with the smoked turkey bacon. Add the drained pasta and fresh chopped parsley and basil. Gradually add reserved pasta water as needed to achieve the desired sauce consistency. Toss everything together thoroughly so the pasta strands are evenly coated with the luscious, tangy sauce.
  5. Final Touches: Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired. Serve immediately while warm and fragrant for the best flavor experience.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemons, garlic, and herbs to maximize brightness and flavor.
  • Avoid overcooking chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
  • Reserve pasta water to help achieve a silky sauce consistency.
  • Add ingredients gradually and taste as you go to balance flavors.
  • Toss pasta with sauce off the heat for one minute to help flavors meld.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 550 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 50 mg

Keywords: lemon garlic chicken pasta, quick dinner, gluten-free pasta, plant-based cheese, smoked turkey bacon, fresh herbs, easy weeknight recipe

Find it online: https://familycookspot.com/lemon-garlic-chicken-pasta/