Zesty Lemon Basil Pasta with Savory Chicken
Indulge in this vibrant and flavorful dish that combines perfectly cooked linguine with juicy chicken, fresh basil, and a zesty lemon infusion. This easy-to-make meal is perfect for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for gatherings. Serve it alongside a crisp salad or a comforting soup for a well-rounded dining experience. Drawing from memories of simple cooking when first learning to fend for myself, this recipe remains a staple for its satisfying taste and budget-friendly ingredients.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
linguine
4 ounces (uncooked)
melted butter
2 teaspoons (melted)
fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon (freshly squeezed)
basil leaves
1 1/2 teaspoons (fresh or dried, chopped)
garlic salt
1/4 teaspoon (ground)
black pepper
1/4 teaspoon (ground)
Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup (grated)
cooked, cubed chicken
2 cups (pre-cooked)
Instructions
1
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
2
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, fresh lemon juice, basil leaves, garlic salt, and black pepper until well combined.
3
Add the cooked, cubed chicken to the pasta and then pour the lemon-butter mixture over the top. Gently toss the pasta and chicken together until evenly coated with the sauce.
4
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss again to incorporate. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Lemon Basil Pasta with Savory Chicken?
It is a vibrant and flavorful dish combining linguine, juicy chicken, fresh basil, and a zesty lemon infusion.
What type of pasta is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 4 ounces of uncooked linguine.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil?
Yes, you can use either fresh or dried chopped basil leaves.
Does the chicken need to be cooked beforehand?
Yes, the recipe requires 2 cups of pre-cooked, cubed chicken.
What are the ingredients for the lemon-butter sauce?
The sauce consists of melted butter, fresh lemon juice, basil leaves, garlic salt, and black pepper.
How should the linguine be cooked?
Cook the linguine in salted boiling water until it is al dente.
What kind of cheese is added to the pasta?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
Is this recipe suitable for busy weeknights?
Yes, it is described as an easy-to-make meal perfect for busy weeknights.
What sides are recommended with this dish?
It is suggested to serve this pasta alongside a crisp salad or a comforting soup.
How much lemon juice is needed?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
What is the amount of butter required?
You will need 2 teaspoons of melted butter.
How do I incorporate the sauce into the pasta?
Pour the lemon-butter mixture over the pasta and chicken and gently toss until evenly coated.
Can I garnish the dish with extra herbs?
Yes, you can garnish the finished dish with additional basil if desired.
What type of salt is used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 1/4 teaspoon of ground garlic salt.
Is this a budget-friendly recipe?
Yes, it is noted for using budget-friendly ingredients.
What is the preparation for the chicken?
The chicken should be pre-cooked and cut into cubes.
How much black pepper is used?
The recipe calls for 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper.
When do I add the Parmesan cheese?
Sprinkle the Parmesan over the pasta after the sauce and chicken have been tossed in.
Is this a one-dish meal?
Yes, it is tagged as a one-dish meal for convenience.
How should the dish be served?
The pasta should be served hot immediately after tossing with cheese.
How much basil is required?
You will need 1 1/2 teaspoons of chopped basil leaves.
Can I use this recipe for a social gathering?
Yes, the description mentions it is impressive enough for gatherings.
What do I do after draining the pasta?
Drain the pasta and return it to the pot before adding other ingredients.
What flavor profile does the lemon provide?
The lemon provides a zesty infusion that complements the savory chicken.
Is the Parmesan cheese grated or shredded?
The recipe specifies using grated Parmesan cheese.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 main ingredients used in this recipe.
Is the lemon juice fresh or bottled?
The recipe recommends using freshly squeezed lemon juice.
How is the sauce mixed?
Whisk the butter, lemon juice, basil, garlic salt, and pepper together in a small bowl.
What category does this recipe fall into?
This is a pasta-based main course featuring chicken and citrus flavors.