Parmesan Chicken Lemon Pasta

Combine crispy parmesan-crusted chicken with creamy lemon pasta for a quick and delicious meal. The chicken is perfectly golden, while the pasta is rich and tangy with garlic and lemon.

My Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Lemon Garlic Pasta has become our family’s most requested dinner. I created this recipe one night when I was craving something cozy but wanted to elevate our usual chicken and pasta routine. The crispy parmesan coating on the chicken paired with my creamy lemon pasta sauce is pure magic. Every time I make it the kitchen fills with the most amazing garlic and lemon aroma that drives everyone crazy with hunger.

Why This Recipe Stole My Heart

This dish came together on a busy Tuesday night and instantly became our family favorite. The chicken turns out perfectly juicy inside with this incredible crispy parmesan crust while the pasta sauce is silky and bright from fresh lemons. What I love most is how quick it comes together just 30 minutes from start to finish. My teenagers actually put their phones down when this hits the table.

Everything You Need

- Chicken Breasts: I grab boneless skinless ones and give them a quick pound to even them out. Makes such a difference in how they cook.
- Parmesan Cheese: Please grate your own. I know it’s tempting to use pre-grated but freshly grated creates this amazing crust that’s worth the extra minute.

- Spaghetti: My go-to but honestly any pasta works beautifully here. My daughter loves it with bow ties.
- Heavy Cream: Creates this dreamy sauce that hugs every strand of pasta.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic only in my kitchen. The flavor is unbeatable.

Lemon Zest and Juice: Brightens everything up and makes the sauce sing.
Olive Oil and Butter: Together they create magic both for the chicken and sauce.

Let’s Get Cooking

Getting Your Chicken Perfect: Mix your parmesan with breadcrumbs and coat your seasoned chicken. I love watching that crust turn golden brown in the pan. Keep an eye on the heat you want that gorgeous color without burning the cheese. Once it hits 165°F you’re good to go.
Pasta Time: Get your water boiling and don’t forget to salt it like the sea. Save a cup of that starchy pasta water before draining it’s like liquid gold for our sauce.
Making That Dreamy Sauce: This is where the magic happens. Let your garlic get fragrant in the butter then pour in that cream. The moment you add the lemon zest your kitchen transforms. When the parmesan melts in it creates this silky smooth heaven.
Bringing It All Together: Toss your pasta in that velvety sauce until every strand is coated. Top with your crispy chicken and watch everyone’s eyes light up when you bring it to the table.