Ingredients
- 12 ounces uncooked dry pasta (bucatini, spaghetti, linguine, or angel hair)
- 6 thin-sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1/3 cup finely diced shallots
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (from 1 large lemon)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or to taste)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons chopped fresh basil, divided
- 1/2 cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- If needed, pound chicken breasts to 1/2-inch thickness. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until browned (no need to cook through). Transfer to a plate and cover loosely.
- Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, shallots, and garlic. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add chicken broth, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Scrape up any browned bits and bring to a low boil. Simmer for 10–15 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted. Add heavy cream and stir to combine.
- Return chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over top, and transfer to the oven. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through. Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons fresh basil.
- Meanwhile, place drained pasta in a large bowl. Add Parmesan cheese, remaining 2 tablespoons basil, and reserved pasta water as needed to loosen. Toss to combine.
- Serve chicken over pasta and spoon creamy lemon sauce on top. Enjoy!
Notes
- Use thin-sliced chicken for quick, even cooking.
- Angel hair pasta cooks faster if you’re in a rush, but any long pasta works well.
- Add extra lemon zest for a brighter citrus flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop, Baking
- Cuisine: American, Italian
- Diet: Halal
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 105mg