angel hair pasta chicken recipe

angel hair pasta chicken recipe

The Best angel hair pasta chicken recipe

I’ve been making this angel hair pasta chicken recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. The dish originated in Italy, where thin strands of pasta are a staple.

The combination of tender chicken, flavorful sauce, and delicate pasta creates a truly satisfying meal. What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity – it’s easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.

My kids adore the dish, and I appreciate how quickly it can be prepared for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. One of the key techniques in making this dish is cooking the angel hair pasta al dente, which prevents it from becoming mushy or overcooked.

This technique also helps to preserve the pasta’s delicate texture. I often serve this dish with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and a side of garlic bread for added flavor and texture.

My family loves when I make this recipe for special occasions like holidays or birthdays, as it’s always a crowd-pleaser. This recipe has become a staple in our household, and I’m confident you’ll enjoy it just as much as we do.

Angel Hair Pasta with Chicken and Lemon Butter Sauce

Angel Hair Pasta with Chicken and Lemon Butter Sauce

4.6 from 1533 votes

A light and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender chicken and delicate angel hair pasta tossed in a zesty lemon butter sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels elegant.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil

For the Pasta and Sauce

8 oz angel hair pasta
3 tbsp unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt and pepper.
2Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes.
3Add the chicken and cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
5While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
6Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually 4 to 5 minutes.
7Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
8In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat.
9Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
10Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, and let the mixture simmer for 2 minutes.
11Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened, about 2 minutes.
12If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
13Season with salt and pepper to taste.
14Add the drained angel hair pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet with the sauce.
15Toss gently with tongs until everything is evenly coated and heated through, about 1 to 2 minutes.
16Sprinkle with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes if using, then serve immediately.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Large skillet
Tongs
Knife
Cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Colander

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 24g💛Saturated Fat: 12g❤️Cholesterol: 95mg🧂Sodium: 580mg🌾Total Carbs: 38g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream. You can also add steamed broccoli or spinach for extra vegetables.

Watch Video Of How Angel Hair Pasta with Chicken and Lemon Butter Sauce Works

This angel hair pasta chicken recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dish for a special event. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.

To store leftovers, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freezing for up to 2 months. When reheating, simply add some moisture-rich liquid like chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce’s original consistency.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Angel Hair Pasta with Chicken and Lemon Butter Sauce

Q: What type of pasta is angel hair?

Angel hair pasta is a type of thin, delicate pasta made from wheat flour and water. It’s typically sold in dried form and has a long, thin shape that resembles strands of hair.

Q: Can I use other types of protein instead of chicken?

While chicken is the traditional protein used in this recipe, you can substitute it with other proteins like shrimp, pork, or beef. Simply adjust the cooking time and seasonings accordingly.

Q: How do I prevent the angel hair pasta from sticking together?

To prevent the angel hair pasta from sticking together, make sure to cook it al dente and then toss it with some olive oil after cooking. You can also add some grated cheese or chopped herbs to help prevent sticking.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this recipe ahead of time by cooking the pasta and chicken separately and then assembling the dish just before serving. This makes it easy to serve a large group or prepare for meal prep.

Q: What are some variations on this recipe?

There are many variations on this recipe that you can try depending on your taste preferences. Some ideas include adding cherry tomatoes for extra flavor, using different types of cheese like parmesan or mozzarella, or adding some heat with red pepper flakes.

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