Description
Looking for a quick dinner idea that doesn’t skimp on flavor? This Lemon Chicken Pasta is the perfect blend of zesty citrus, juicy grilled chicken, and savory parmesan tossed with tender bowtie pasta and seasonal vegetables. It’s one of those easy recipes that checks all the boxes — simple prep, satisfying texture, and big flavor. Whether you’re hunting for easy dinner ideas, a healthy comfort meal, or a weeknight go-to that feels like a restaurant dish, this is one of the best food ideas to keep on repeat.
Ingredients
12 oz bowtie pasta
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
1 yellow squash, sliced into half-moons
3 tbsp olive oil, divided
2 lemons, juiced and zested
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and marinate for at least 20 minutes.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
3. Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for 5 to 6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Let it rest, then slice.
4. In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the zucchini and yellow squash for 3 to 4 minutes until just tender.
5. Return the sliced chicken to the pan. Add the pasta, a splash of reserved pasta water, and half of the parmesan cheese. Toss until evenly coated.
6. Finish with parsley, the remaining parmesan, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm with extra lemon wedges.
Notes
Reserve some pasta water before draining so the sauce turns silky and coats the pasta better.
Use freshly grated parmesan instead of pre-shredded cheese for smoother melting and better flavor.
Do not overcook the zucchini and squash because they should stay slightly firm for the best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American / Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: lemon chicken pasta, quick dinner, easy dinner, healthy pasta, weeknight dinner, food ideas, easy recipe