There’s something so comforting about a creamy pasta dish, especially when it’s filled with bright lemony flavors. Picture this: a cozy evening at home, the aroma of garlic wafting through the kitchen, and a delicious bowl of Lemon Garlic Chicken Spaghetti in Creamy Mozzarella Cheese Sauce waiting to be savored. It’s quick to whip up, and trust me, you’ll want to savor every bite of this delightful dish!
Why You’ll Love Lemon Garlic Chicken Spaghetti in Creamy Mozzarella Cheese Sauce
- Fast: You can have the main components prepped and ready to eat in just about 30 minutes.
- Easy: This recipe is straightforward and perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
- Giftable: It travels well, making it a great option for potlucks or as a comforting meal for someone in need.
- Crowd-pleasing: This dish is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters with its creamy goodness!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces spaghetti: The perfect base for this creamy sauce.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced: A lean protein that soaks up all the flavors.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and garlic.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Because garlic makes everything better!
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds depth to the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The key to that luscious, creamy texture.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for a cheesy finish.
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested: For that bright, fresh flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and freshness!
How to Make Lemon Garlic Chicken Spaghetti in Creamy Mozzarella Cheese Sauce
- First, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Once it’s al dente, drain it and set it aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes.
- Now, stir in the heavy cream, shredded mozzarella cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Cook until the cheese is melted and the sauce is wonderfully creamy.
- Finally, add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss everything together, making sure the pasta is well coated in that luscious sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
Substitutions & Additions
- If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt.
- For added veggies, toss in some spinach or cherry tomatoes just before serving.
- Need a kick? A pinch of red pepper flakes will add a lovely heat to the dish.
Tips for Success
- Be sure not to overcook the chicken; it should be juicy and tender.
- If your sauce is too thick, add a splash more chicken broth or cream to loosen it up.
- This dish is great for meal prep! Just keep the pasta and sauce separate until you’re ready to enjoy it.
How to Store Lemon Garlic Chicken Spaghetti in Creamy Mozzarella Cheese Sauce
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may need to add a little extra liquid to restore the creaminess.
FAQs
- Can I use whole wheat spaghetti? Absolutely! Whole wheat spaghetti will work just fine and add some extra fiber.
- Is there a vegetarian version of this dish? Yes! You can replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu for a delicious vegetarian option.
- How can I make this dish gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta, and you’re all set!
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to check out my other delicious meals and follow me on Pinterest for more culinary inspiration!
Lemon Garlic Chicken Spaghetti in Creamy Mozzarella Cheese Sauce
There's something so comforting about a creamy pasta dish, especially when it’s filled with bright lemony flavors. Picture this: a cozy evening at home, the aroma of garlic wafting through the kitchen, and a delicious bowl of Lemon Garlic Chicken Spaghetti in Creamy Mozzarella Cheese Sauce waiting to be savored.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Once it’s al dente, drain it and set it aside.
- Step 2: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Step 3: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Step 4: Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes.
- Step 5: Stir in the heavy cream, shredded mozzarella cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Cook until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Step 6: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss everything together.
- Step 7: Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley.
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may need to add a little extra liquid to restore the creaminess.