Lemon Parmesan Pasta

Lemon Parmesan Pasta with Lemon-Marinated Pan-Seared Chicken: A Bright, Flavorful Dinner 🍋🧀

When you’re craving a comforting yet fresh and flavorful meal, this Lemon Parmesan Pasta is the perfect go-to. The creamy, zesty pasta is balanced by tender, juicy chicken that’s marinated in lemon and herbs, creating a dish that feels both elegant and easy.

It’s a quick weeknight dinner that feels fancy enough for guests but simple enough to whip up in under an hour. The fresh lemon juice brightens every bite, while the Parmesan adds richness and depth of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright and Fresh: The lemon adds a pop of freshness to both the pasta and chicken.

• Perfectly Balanced: Creamy Parmesan pasta paired with zesty, juicy chicken.

• Quick and Easy: Ready in about 40 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.

The Recipe

Ingredients for the Pasta:

• 12 ounces pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your choice)

• 4 tablespoons butter

• 1 onion

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 cups chicken broth

• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• Zest of 2 lemon

• Juice of 2 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Crispy Oven Baked Chicken

Marinade:

Chicken Breasts  

Olive oil 

Teaspoon of dried onion, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper 

Breading:

Wet ingredients: 

2 eggs 

4 garlic cloves 

Splash of milk 

Dry: 

1 cup panko bread crumbs 

1 cup Italian bread crumbs 

1/2 olive oil mix everything together

Instructions: 

Marinate 8-24 hours in advance. Pound with a meat mallet. I like to cut the chicken breasts in half before marinating, so when it is pounded it is the perfect size. Then dip chicken in wet mixture, then the dry. Bake at 425 degrees till first side is golden brown (about 15-20 mins). Flip then bake till other side is golden brown. Remove from oven and enjoy! If the chicken is not crispy yet cook for a few more minutes! 

2. Cook the Pasta Sauce:

Sautee onion with salt until tender and almost translucent. Add garlic and cook for 5 minutes or until fragrant. Add the zest of two lemons and cook for another minute. Then add chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and add the pasta. I recommend an oval pan; if there is not enough broth to cover the pasta, add some water or more broth. Allow to simmer until the liquid is absorbed by the pasta and the pasta is cooked, add the juice of two lemons. Once the pasta is almost done cooking, add the generous amount of parmesan, this will allow the sauce to cling to the pasta.

3. Serve:

Slice the pan-seared chicken and place it on top of the pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and extra Parmesan cheese. I love to serve with parmesan roasted broccoli! Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Lemon Parmesan Pasta with Chicken

• Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice makes a huge difference in flavor.

• Marinate the Chicken: The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes will do the trick!

• Customize Your Pasta: Feel free to add spinach, peas, or roasted vegetables to the pasta for extra flavor and texture.

• These Parmesan Brussel sprouts make for the most perfect and amazing side!

Why This Dish is a Family Favorite

This Lemon Parmesan Pasta with Lemon-Marinated Pan-Seared Chicken is a meal that hits all the right notes. It’s creamy yet light, comforting yet fresh, and packed with bright, bold flavors that the whole family will love.

Whether you’re making it for a special dinner or a quick weeknight meal, this dish is sure to impress.

I’d love to see your take on this recipe! Tag me on Instagram @WeeknightHomemaker to share your delicious creations.

Happy cooking,

Lauren 💕

The Weeknight Homemaker