Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo (One-Pan)

Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo (One-Pan) is the perfect dish for any occasion, from a cozy family dinner to an impressive date night. This creamy and citrusy pasta is easy to prepare and packed with flavor, making it a delightful addition to your weeknight meals. With tender chicken seasoned with lemon pepper and a rich sauce of garlic, parmesan, and lemon, this recipe stands out for its simplicity and taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This one-pan meal can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of lemon zest, garlic, and parmesan creates a deliciously creamy sauce that elevates simple chicken and pasta.
• Versatile: Perfect for various occasions, from casual family dinners to entertaining guests.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pan means less time spent washing dishes afterward.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or switch up the protein for even more variety.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large deep skillet
• Cooking utensils (spatula, whisk)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Why These Tools Matter

• Large deep skillet: Allows you to cook the chicken and pasta together while creating a rich sauce without overflow.
• Cooking utensils: A good spatula ensures even mixing without damaging your cookware. A whisk helps achieve a smooth sauce consistency.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key for flavor balance in this recipe.

Ingredients

This bright and citrusy Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo is decadently creamy, full of garlic, parmesan, and tangy lemon. It’s then topped with buttery lemon pepper seasoned chicken tenders and lemon wedges for serving.

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs chicken tenderloins (breasts or thighs work too)
• 2-3 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning

For the Pasta

• 12 oz dry linguini pasta (about 3/4 of a 1 lb. box)

For the Sauce

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 6 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 lemon (zest of)
• 3/4 cup dry white grape juice (good enough to drink)
• 1 cup chicken stock
• 2.5 – 3 cups half and half (start with 2.5 cups, adding more if needed as the pasta absorbs the sauce.)
• 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning (don’t add any salt to your sauce until the end if it’s needed at all)
• 2 teaspoons freshly cracked pepper
• 2/3 cup parmesan (grated)

How to Make Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo (One-Pan)

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Drizzle the chicken tenderloins with olive oil and generously season them with lemon pepper seasoning. If you’re using salt-free seasoning, add salt as well.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large deep skillet over medium-low heat. Add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil. Cook the seasoned chicken about 3 minutes per side or until cooked through. After cooking for an additional minute, add 1 tablespoon of butter to coat the chicken. Set aside under tented foil.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic

In the same skillet, add another 3 tablespoons of butter along with all minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in white grape juice to deglaze the pan and cook for about 4-5 minutes until reduced.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

Add lemon juice, chicken stock, and half and half into the skillet. Whisk in additional lemon pepper seasoning along with freshly cracked pepper. Bring this mixture to a low boil while tasting to adjust flavors as necessary.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Add dry linguini directly into the pan; once it softens slightly after about 1 minute, it should be flexible enough to submerge in the liquid completely (you can break it in half if preferred).

Step 6: Simmer Until Al Dente

Allow pasta to simmer for about 8-10 minutes or until al dente. Toss occasionally to ensure even cooking throughout.

Step 7: Combine Ingredients

Once cooked, stir in grated parmesan until well coated in sauce. Top with cooked chicken tenders, extra lemon zest, fresh lemon wedges for serving, and an optional sprinkle of additional lemon pepper seasoning if desired.

How to Serve Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo (One-Pan)

Serving Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo is a delightful experience that can be tailored to individual tastes. This creamy pasta dish shines on its own but can be complemented with various sides and garnishes for an enhanced meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Parsley: Finely chopped parsley adds a refreshing touch and vibrant color.
• Basil: Fresh basil leaves can provide an aromatic flavor boost.
• Chives: Chopped chives lend a mild onion flavor that pairs well with lemon.

Add Extra Lemon Flavor

• Lemon Wedges: Serve alongside the dish for an extra citrusy kick.
• Lemon Zest: Sprinkle additional zest on top for a burst of fresh aroma.

Pair with a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine, croutons, and parmesan complements the richness of the Alfredo.
• Simple Green Salad: Mixed greens with vinaigrette offer a light contrast to the creamy pasta.

Bread Options

• Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread enhances the meal and is perfect for soaking up sauce.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls are great for a comforting touch and can be served warm.

How to Perfect Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo (One-Pan)

Achieving the ideal Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo is simple with a few key tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dish to perfection.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and lemon juice will enhance the flavors significantly compared to dried or bottled versions.
• Adjust Thickness: If your sauce becomes too thick, add more half and half or chicken stock until desired consistency is reached.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Aim for al dente pasta as it will continue cooking slightly after being added to the sauce, ensuring it doesn’t become mushy.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste your dish before serving; adjust seasoning as needed, especially before adding salt.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo (One-Pan)

Complementing your Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo with side dishes can create a balanced meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Tender broccoli roasted with garlic offers a nutritious crunch that pairs perfectly with creamy pasta.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with olive oil provides freshness and texture contrast.
3. Caprese Salad: A refreshing salad made from tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil that adds brightness to your plate.
4. Grilled Zucchini: Sliced zucchini grilled until tender adds a smoky flavor that balances the dish’s creaminess.
5. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs makes for a healthy side full of flavor and nutrients.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the Alfredo sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps that can affect the final dish. Here are common mistakes to avoid for perfect results.

• Skipping Seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to use enough lemon pepper seasoning on the chicken before cooking.
• Overcooking Pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can result in mushy noodles. Keep an eye on the time and taste for al dente texture.
• Not Deglazing Properly: Neglecting to deglaze the pan after cooking chicken means missing out on flavorful bits. Use grape juice to scrape up those tasty morsels for your sauce.
• Adding Cheese Too Early: If you add parmesan too soon, it may clump instead of melt smoothly. Wait until the pasta is cooked before stirring in the cheese.
• Ignoring Sauce Consistency: Adding too much half and half or broth at once can make your sauce too thin. Start with less liquid and adjust as needed for creamy consistency.
• Forgetting Lemon Zest: Omitting lemon zest will take away that fresh, vibrant flavor. Always remember to add it right before serving for a burst of citrus.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing and refrigerating.

Freezing Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo (One-Pan)

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• The dish can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
• Make sure to label containers with the date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo (One-Pan)

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the dish in an oven-safe container, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion into a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Place leftovers in a skillet over low heat. Stir occasionally and add a splash of chicken stock or half-and-half if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I customize my Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo?

You can easily add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Feel free to adjust the level of lemon flavor by adding more lemon juice or zest.

Can I use another type of pasta?

Absolutely! While linguini pairs well with this dish, you could substitute it with fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free pasta if preferred.

What should I serve with Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo?

This dish is great on its own but pairs well with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal experience.

How do I know when my chicken is cooked through?

Chicken tenderloins are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can also cut into one piece; it should be white throughout with no pink remaining.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare components ahead of time. Cook chicken and sauce separately, then combine just before serving for optimal taste and texture.

Conclusion

This Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo is not only rich and creamy but also brightened by citrus flavors that elevate any dinner table. Its one-pan preparation makes clean-up easy, while customization options allow you to make it your own. Give this delightful recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

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