Zesty grilled chicken marries al dente pasta in a silken garlic-lemon sauce. Fresh lemon zest and a one-pan method create an elegant, easy-to-prepare Italian-American dish with depth and brightness.
300g penne pasta (12 oz)
8 oz grilled chicken breasts, sliced
2 tbsp olive oil (mild/light variety)
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 large lemon (juice and zest)
½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
Bring a wide skillet of salted water to a boil
Cook pasta according to package directions
While pasta cooks, heat oil in a large skillet
Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (45-60 seconds)
Deglaze with chicken broth and squeeze in lemon juice
Stir in cooked pasta and chicken slices
Combine thoroughly with tongs until sauce thickens
Season with salt and fold in lemon zest and parsley
Use high-quality pasta for best texture
Keep pasta al dente for optimal sauce absorption
Low-Na diet: Use store-bought low-sodium broth
One-pan cleanup: Use same skillet for both pasta and sauce preparation