Zesty Lime Avocado Chicken Pasta
This Zesty Lime Avocado Chicken Pasta is a refreshing twist on the classic chicken pasta dish. Inspired by a friend's lemon chicken pasta recipe, I took a chance with lime and avocado, and the results were a delightful surprise! Perfect for summer gatherings or casual family dinners, this dish features tender chicken and al dente pasta, all coated in a creamy, zesty sauce made with fresh lime juice and vibrant herbs. The addition of creamy avocados takes the texture to new heights. Friends and family rave about it, and it's become a staple at dinner parties, thanks to my sister-in-law who makes it her go-to recipe. Bring summer to your table with this irresistible meal that's sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
N/A
Servings
450
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
chicken
1 lb (chopped into bite-sized pieces)
pasta
1 lb (penne or ziti)
avocados
2-3 (diced)
olive oil
1/4 cup (for cooking and dressing)
green onion
1/4 cup (chopped)
fresh cilantro
1/4 cup (packed and chopped)
parmesan cheese
1/4 cup (freshly grated, plus more for topping)
lime juice
3 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
lime
1 (zest of (optional))
salt
to taste
pepper
to taste
Instructions
1
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chopped chicken with salt and pepper, then sauté it until it's golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
2
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
3
Meanwhile, while the pasta is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, chopped green onion, fresh cilantro, lime juice, lime zest (if using), and freshly grated parmesan cheese. Mix well to create a smooth sauce.
4
Once the pasta is ready and drained, return it to the pot. Toss in the cooked chicken, followed by the zesty sauce. If the mixture seems dry, add a little reserved pasta water until you reach a creamy consistency.
5
Gently fold in the diced avocados, being careful not to mash them. Season to taste with additional salt and pepper.
6
Serve immediately, garnished with extra parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, if desired.
Nutrition Information
18.75g
Fat
36.25g
Carbs
32.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Lime Avocado Chicken Pasta?
It is a refreshing pasta dish featuring tender sautéed chicken, al dente pasta, and a zesty sauce made from lime, cilantro, and parmesan, finished with creamy diced avocados.
What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?
The recipe recommends using one pound of penne or ziti pasta.
How much chicken is required?
You will need one pound of chicken, chopped into bite-sized pieces.
How many avocados are needed?
The recipe calls for 2 to 3 avocados, diced.
How do I cook the chicken for this pasta?
Sauté the seasoned chicken in a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
What ingredients are in the zesty sauce?
The sauce is a mixture of olive oil, chopped green onion, fresh cilantro, lime juice, lime zest, and freshly grated parmesan cheese.
How many calories are in a serving?
There are approximately 450 calories per serving.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving contains about 32.5g of protein.
How much fat is in this dish?
There is 18.75g of fat per serving.
What is the carbohydrate count?
Each serving has 36.25g of carbohydrates.
Why should I reserve pasta water?
Reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water allows you to adjust the consistency of the dish if the pasta seems too dry after mixing.
Is lime zest mandatory for the recipe?
No, the lime zest is optional, but it adds an extra layer of citrus flavor.
When should I add the avocados?
Add the avocados at the very end, gently folding them in so they do not get mashed.
How much lime juice is used?
The recipe requires 3 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lime juice.
Can I use a different cheese besides parmesan?
While parmesan is recommended for its salty bite, you could experiment with other hard cheeses, though it may change the flavor profile.
What type of onions are best for this pasta?
The recipe specifically calls for 1/4 cup of chopped green onions.
Is this recipe suitable for summer?
Yes, the fresh lime and cilantro make it a perfect, refreshing meal for summer gatherings.
How much cilantro is needed?
You will need 1/4 cup of packed and chopped fresh cilantro.
How do I ensure the pasta is al dente?
Follow the specific package directions for your penne or ziti and check it a minute or two before the timer ends.
What is the total amount of olive oil used?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of olive oil for both cooking the chicken and dressing the pasta.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the chicken or replace it with a plant-based protein or extra vegetables.
How do I season the chicken?
The chicken should be seasoned with salt and pepper to taste before sautéing.
What is the recommended garnish?
Garnish with extra parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 11 ingredients in total.
Can I use pre-bottled lime juice?
Freshly squeezed lime juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.
What texture does the avocado add?
The avocado adds a rich, creamy texture that complements the zesty lime sauce.
Is this recipe easy for dinner parties?
Yes, it is a staple for dinner parties as it is unique, flavorful, and generally a crowd-pleaser.
Should I serve this dish hot or cold?
It is best served immediately while warm, though it can also be enjoyed at room temperature.
How much parmesan cheese goes into the sauce?
1/4 cup of freshly grated parmesan is mixed directly into the sauce.
What is the origin of this recipe idea?
The creator was inspired by a friend's lemon chicken pasta and decided to swap lemon for lime and add avocado.