Lemony Garlic Chicken Carbonara Pasta

Name: Lemony Garlic Chicken Carbonara Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound); 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 12 oz spaghetti or fettuccine; Zest and juice of 1 large lemon; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil

Published: January 2, 2026

by Sarah Conley

Why You'll Love This Lemony Garlic Chicken Carbonara Pasta

This incredible Lemony Garlic Chicken Carbonara Pasta transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Lemony Garlic Chicken Carbonara Pasta:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor; nothing beats that aromatic punch!
Pasta: Spaghetti or fettuccine works wonderfully here; opt for whole grain if you’re feeling healthy.
Lemon Zest and Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness; don’t skimp on zest either—it’s like sunshine in your dish.
Heavy Cream: For that luscious sauce that clings to every strand of pasta—because who doesn’t love creamy goodness?

For the Sauce:

Parmesan Cheese: Grate it fresh for maximum flavor; it elevates the dish from good to WOW!
Salt and Pepper: Season to taste; it’s all about balance here!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Lemony Garlic Chicken Carbonara Pasta:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop up the chicken into bite-sized pieces and mince several cloves of garlic. The more garlic you add, the more aromatic your kitchen will become—no vampires allowed here!

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Toss in the chicken pieces and season them with salt and pepper. Sauté until golden brown and cooked through—about 5-7 minutes should do it! Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Cook Your Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta choice (spaghetti works great!) and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain but reserve about a cup of pasta water—you’ll thank me later!

Step 4: Create That Sauce

In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken (flavor overload!), add minced garlic and cook until fragrant—about one minute. Pour in heavy cream along with lemon zest and juice. Stir it all up like you’re casting a delicious spell!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add cooked pasta directly into the skillet along with chicken pieces. Mix well to combine everything! If it looks too thick or dry, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach that perfect creamy consistency.

Step 6: Finish It Off

Toss in grated Parmesan cheese while mixing everything together until melted and smooth—this is where magic happens! Serve hot with extra cheese on top if you’re feeling indulgent.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every forkful of this creamy delight!

You Must Know About Lemony Garlic Chicken Carbonara Pasta

This showstopping Lemony Garlic Chicken Carbonara Pasta delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken to golden perfection, then cook your pasta in a separate pot. As the pasta boils, whip up your creamy sauce with garlic and lemon for a delightful finish. This sequence ensures everything is hot and ready at the same time.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to customize your Lemony Garlic Chicken Carbonara Pasta! Swap out chicken for shrimp or mushrooms, add some spinach for color, or sprinkle in extra herbs like basil and parsley to elevate the flavor profile.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or water to keep the sauce creamy and prevent it from drying out.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Lemony Garlic Chicken Carbonara Pasta

This professional-quality Lemony Garlic Chicken Carbonara Pasta relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Nothing compares to that moment when I served this dish at my family gathering—everyone went silent as they savored each bite, followed by enthusiastic requests for the recipe!

FAQs

What is Lemony Garlic Chicken Carbonara Pasta?

Lemony Garlic Chicken Carbonara Pasta is a delightful fusion dish that combines classic Italian carbonara with fresh, zesty flavors. This recipe features tender chicken pieces sautéed in a rich, creamy sauce made from eggs, cheese, and garlic. The twist comes from the addition of lemon juice and zest, which brighten the dish and add a refreshing taste. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this pasta dish is sure to impress family and friends alike.

How do I make Lemony Garlic Chicken Carbonara Pasta?

To make Lemony Garlic Chicken Carbonara Pasta, start by cooking your favorite pasta until al dente. Meanwhile, sauté diced chicken breast in olive oil until golden brown. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and zest. Combine the hot pasta with the chicken mixture off the heat, then quickly stir in the egg mixture to create a creamy sauce. Serve immediately with extra lemon zest on top for added flavor.

Can I substitute ingredients in Lemony Garlic Chicken Carbonara Pasta?

Yes, you can easily substitute ingredients in Lemony Garlic Chicken Carbonara Pasta based on your preferences or dietary needs. For instance, if you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. You can also swap out chicken for shrimp or tofu if you prefer seafood or a vegetarian alternative. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Pecorino Romano for a unique twist!

Is Lemony Garlic Chicken Carbonara Pasta suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Lemony Garlic Chicken Carbonara Pasta is an excellent choice for meal prep. Prepare the pasta and chicken ahead of time and store them separately in airtight containers. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat the components and mix them together with the creamy sauce. This dish stays delicious for up to three days in the fridge. Just be aware that reheating may alter the texture of the sauce slightly; adding a splash of water can help restore creaminess.

Conclusion

In summary, Lemony Garlic Chicken Carbonara Pasta is a flavorful dish that combines traditional carbonara elements with bright lemony notes and tender chicken. It’s an easy yet impressive meal perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation steps, this recipe is accessible to home cooks at all skill levels. Give it a try for your next dinner gathering; you’ll be amazed at how quickly it becomes a favorite!

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📖 Recipe Card