Pasta with Chicken in Lemon Wine Sauce is a bright and flavorful dish that brings together succulent chicken, fresh pasta, and a zesty lemon wine sauce. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. The combination of lemon, wine, and garlic creates a delightful sauce that elevates the simple ingredients into something truly special.
In this article, we will explore why you should make this recipe, detail the cooking process, provide you with the necessary ingredients, and share tips for serving and storing the dish.
Why make this recipe
There are many reasons why this Pasta with Chicken in Lemon Wine Sauce is a fantastic choice for your next meal. First, this dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy evenings. You can have a delicious home-cooked meal on the table in less than an hour.
Second, the flavors in this recipe are incredibly vibrant. The addition of lemon zest and juice gives a fresh taste, while the white wine adds depth and richness. Together, these ingredients complement the chicken and pasta beautifully.
Finally, this dish is versatile. You can serve it as a family dinner or on special occasions. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad or crusty bread, making it a complete and satisfying meal.
How to make Pasta with Chicken in Lemon Wine Sauce
Making Pasta with Chicken in Lemon Wine Sauce is straightforward. Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delicious dish that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz spaghetti (340 g)
- 1 1/2 lbs chicken tenders (680 g)
- 1 1/2 tsp fine sea salt, divided (9 g)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (1.5 g)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (60 g)
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided (30 ml)
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, divided (84 g)
- 3/4 cup dry white wine (Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc) (180 ml)
- 4 garlic cloves (approximately 1 tbsp minced) (12 g)
- 1 tsp lemon zest (from 1 lemon) (5 g)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (from 2 lemons) (60 ml)
- 1/3 cup parsley (finely chopped) (10 g)
- Freshly shredded Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Directions:
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Prepare your ingredients by chopping the parsley, zesting, and juicing the lemons, and mincing the garlic. Season the chicken with 1 tsp of salt and 1/2 tsp of black pepper, then dredge it in flour.
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Cook the spaghetti in a large pot of boiling water with 2 tbsp of salt according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, drain the pasta, and return it to the pot. Cover the pot partially to keep the pasta warm.
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In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tbsp of olive oil and 1 tbsp of butter. Sauté the chicken for about 2 minutes per side or until it turns golden brown and is cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken to a plate. Repeat this process with the remaining chicken, adding another tbsp of oil and butter as needed, making sure to keep all cooked chicken warm.
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In the same skillet, add the dry white wine and deglaze by scraping the bottom of the pan to incorporate all those flavorful bits. Cook the wine until it reduces to about 1/4 cup (60 ml). Then, add the remaining 4 tbsp of butter and let it melt. Add the minced garlic and simmer for 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and finely chopped parsley. Adjust seasoning with the remaining 1/2 tsp of salt or to taste.
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Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, coating it in the delicious lemon wine sauce. Place the drained spaghetti in a large serving bowl. Spoon the sauce and chicken over the spaghetti and toss lightly to combine. Garnish with additional parsley and freshly shredded Parmesan cheese before serving.
How to serve Pasta with Chicken in Lemon Wine Sauce
Serving Pasta with Chicken in Lemon Wine Sauce is simple and enjoyable. Place the pasta in large serving bowls or on individual plates. Then, make sure to distribute the chicken and sauce evenly over the pasta. For an elegant touch, sprinkle some finely chopped parsley on top and add freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while it’s warm, pairing it with a light salad or a piece of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
How to store Pasta with Chicken in Lemon Wine Sauce
If you have leftovers, storing them is easy. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store the Pasta with Chicken in Lemon Wine Sauce in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you are ready to eat, reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth to help revive the sauce if needed.
Tips to make Pasta with Chicken in Lemon Wine Sauce
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Cooking Chicken: Make sure not to overcook the chicken. It should be golden brown and cooked through but still juicy.
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Wine Selection: Choose a dry white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc for the best flavor. If you’re not a fan of drinking wine, look for a cooking wine of good quality.
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Lemon Freshness: Use fresh lemons for the zest and juice to get the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice does not have the same brightness.
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Herb Freshness: Substitute parsley with basil or arugula for a different flavor profile.
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Adding Vegetables: You can add vegetables like spinach, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes to the dish. Sauté them along with the chicken for extra nutrition.
Variation (if any)
This recipe is flexible and can be adjusted to suit your tastes. If you prefer a creamy sauce, add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce after the lemon juice. This will give a nice richness to the dish. For a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce when you add the garlic.
FAQs
Q: Can I use pasta other than spaghetti?
A: Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine, penne, or farfalle.
Q: Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
A: Substitute traditional pasta with gluten-free pasta and ensure the flour used is also gluten-free for dredging the chicken.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: While it is best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and heat everything just before serving.
Q: How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
A: The chicken should have an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Using a meat thermometer will help ensure it cooks perfectly.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Freezing is not recommended for this dish because the texture of the pasta may suffer when thawed. It’s best to enjoy it fresh or refrigerated.
Nutritional Information
- Servings: 4
- Total Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Calories per serving: 520
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 760mg
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 33g
Pasta with Chicken in Lemon Wine Sauce is a delightful dish that will charm your palate. With its vibrant flavors and simple preparation, it’s certain to become a regular favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy this recipe for a satisfying meal that everyone will love!