Lemon Pepper Chicken Pasta (Printer-Friendly)
Tender chicken breast and pasta infused with bright lemon pepper seasoning and sauce.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Protein
01 -
8 oz boneless skinless chicken breast
→ Seasonings
02 -
1 tbsp lemon pepper seasoning
03 -
2-3 tsp lemon pepper seasoning
04 -
Salt, to taste
→ Pasta and Grains
05 -
8 oz fettuccine or preferred pasta
→ Fats
06 -
Vegetable oil, as needed for cooking
07 -
3 tbsp unsalted butter
→ Vegetables
08 -
2 leeks (white parts only), thinly sliced
09 -
1 tbsp diced green onions for garnish
→ Liquids
10 -
3 tbsp reserved pasta water
11 -
1/2 cup chicken stock
12 -
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
→ Dairy
13 -
2 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan cheese
# Steps to Follow:
01 -
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. Reserve 3 tablespoons of pasta water before draining and set pasta aside.
02 -
Trim the dark green leaves and root ends of the leeks, then wash thoroughly. Cut leeks lengthwise and thinly slice them into half circles. Set aside.
03 -
Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to create thinner filets. Season both sides generously with 1 tablespoon of lemon pepper seasoning.
04 -
Heat a medium skillet over medium heat with some vegetable oil. Pan-sear the chicken breasts until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove and set aside.
05 -
In the same skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Add sliced leeks and cook until golden and tender, stirring frequently. Season lightly with salt.
06 -
Add reserved pasta water, chicken stock, and fresh lemon juice to the pan with leeks. Stir well, then incorporate 2 to 3 teaspoons of lemon pepper seasoning. Adjust salt to taste.
07 -
Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat in the sauce. Simmer for about 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
08 -
Slice the cooked chicken and either fold it into the pasta or place atop the plated pasta. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and diced green onions. Serve immediately.
# Helpful Hints:
01 -
To remember saving pasta water, place a cup under the strainer while draining.
02 -
Use gluten-free pasta to keep the dish gluten-free.