Description

Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites with Creamy Penne Parmesan Pasta is a delightful dish that marries the zesty brightness of lemon and garlic with the comforting richness of creamy pasta. This quick-to-prepare meal is ideal for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for weekend gatherings. Tender chicken bites are sautéed to golden perfection and combined with a luscious sauce made from cream cheese, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese, enveloping al dente penne pasta. With its vibrant flavors and satisfying textures, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 pound penne pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Boil salted water in a large pot. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Add chicken pieces seasoned with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika. Sauté until golden brown on all sides (about 6–8 minutes). Remove chicken from skillet.
3. In the same skillet on low heat, melt the remaining butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute). Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, heavy cream, chicken broth, cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
4. Return chicken to the skillet and simmer for 2–3 minutes until heated through. Gently add cooked penne pasta, tossing to combine.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Sautéing
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 610
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 850mg
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 41g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 130mg