Easy One-Pan Chicken Lemon Pasta

Chicken lemon pasta is a classic favorite in many households. It's a versatile dish that can be quickly prepared with minimal effort while delivering delicious flavor. Whether you're looking to whip up a weeknight dinner or impress guests, this recipe offers an easy yet impressive meal.

Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) of whole wheat fusilli pasta
• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• ½ cup (60 ml) extra virgin olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 lemons - zest and juice
• 1 tbsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once it reaches the desired temperature, place chicken breasts on a baking sheet and drizzle them generously with olive oil. Sprinkle garlic, lemon zest, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and oregano over the chicken before placing in the preheated oven.

Meanwhile, start cooking pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly when done but set aside a small amount of pasta water for later use. This can help create a smooth sauce consistency.

While the pasta is boiling, return your chicken to the same oven and continue baking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), approximately 20-25 minutes depending on size of breasts. Allow it to rest for about five minutes before slicing into thin pieces.

In a large skillet or pot, heat another tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned. Stir in lemon juice, reserved pasta water (to adjust thickness), chicken, and parsley if desired. Taste test and season as needed with additional salt and pepper.

Once everything is well combined, toss the hot chicken lemon sauce into your cooked whole wheat fusilli pasta. Gently mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed. Serve immediately while it's still warm.

Tips & Variations

1. If you prefer less acidity from lemons, simply reduce its juice quantity accordingly or omit altogether for a milder version of the dish.
2. For a heartier option, add some cooked vegetables such as broccoli florets or cherry tomatoes into your pasta towards the end when reheating.
3. To make this dish more substantial, serve it alongside a side salad or garlic bread.

Nutritional Information Per Serving

Calories: approximately 450 kcal
Protein: about 30g
Carbohydrates: around 60g
Fat: roughly 18g

This chicken lemon pasta recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a balanced meal packed with essential nutrients. Perfect for those looking to enjoy a quick yet satisfying dish, this easy one-pan meal can be tailored according to individual preferences. Experiment with different herbs or add some fresh vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra color and texture.

To make the most out of your cooking experience, ensure that all ingredients are fresh and high quality whenever possible. Additionally, consider portion sizes based on dietary needs such as calorie intake, protein requirement, etc., especially if this dish forms part of a broader meal plan.

Enjoy your homemade chicken lemon pasta! Remember to always wash hands thoroughly before handling food items, measure out all ingredients accurately during preparation, and follow safe cooking practices throughout the entire process. Happy cooking!