Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta – Easy Dinner Recipe with Leftover Chicken

Hi there, food lover! 👋 Ready to turn simple ingredients into something comforting, creamy, and unforgettable?

There’s something truly special about a bowl of pasta shared at the end of a long day. 🍝 It’s warm, filling, and carries a sense of home that few dishes can match. Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta is one of those recipes that feels both indulgent and practical—perfect for busy evenings, yet elegant enough to serve when you want to impress without stress. This dish has roots in traditional home-style cooking, where nothing goes to waste and leftover chicken is transformed into a brand-new meal full of flavor and care.

What makes this recipe shine is its balance. The creaminess is rich but not heavy, the lemon brings brightness, and the garlic adds depth that feels timeless. Using leftover chicken is a respectful nod to traditional kitchens, where resourcefulness was just as important as taste. Every forkful tells a story of simplicity, comfort, and thoughtful cooking passed down through generations. 💛

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this pasta invites you to slow down and enjoy the process. No complicated steps, no fancy equipment—just honest ingredients coming together in harmony. Light a candle, put on some music, and let this dish remind you why home cooking is such a beautiful tradition. 😊

Ingredients 🥣

(Serves 4, generously)

• 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti work beautifully)
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or sliced (leftover roast or grilled chicken is ideal)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1/2 lemon (adjust to taste)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for gentle warmth)
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or basil

Step-by-Step Directions 🍳

1. Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
2. While the pasta cooks, warm olive oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté gently for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant—take care not to brown it.
4. Stir in the cooked chicken, allowing it to warm through and absorb the garlic-infused oil.
5. Lower the heat and pour in the cream, stirring slowly to create a smooth sauce.
6. Add Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet, tossing gently to coat every strand.
8. Splash in reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce and create a silky texture.
9. Finish with lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.
10. Sprinkle with fresh herbs and serve immediately, warm and comforting. 🍽️

Notes 📝

• This recipe is perfect for using up leftover chicken, making it both economical and thoughtful.
• Swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt or evaporated milk for a lighter sauce.
• Add spinach, peas, or mushrooms for extra nourishment and color.
• Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days—reheat gently with a splash of milk or water.

Nutritional Information ⚖️

⏰ Prep Time: 10 minutes
🔥 Baking Time: 15 minutes
⏳ Total Time: 25 minutes

⚡ Calories per serving: ~375
🍽️ Servings: 4

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Bon appétit and happy cooking!