Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo (One-Pan)

This Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo (One-Pan) is a delightful and creamy dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The bright flavors of lemon, combined with tender chicken and rich parmesan, make this meal a standout. Plus, being a one-pan recipe means less cleanup and more time to enjoy with family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for those hectic nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pan, making it ideal for both busy weeknights and casual gatherings.
• Flavorful & Creamy: The combination of garlic, lemon, and parmesan creates a rich sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences, ensuring everyone enjoys it!
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both kids and adults alike, making it a great choice for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large deep skillet
• Cooking spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Why These Tools Matter

• Large deep skillet: Allows for easy cooking of pasta along with the sauce in one go.
• Cooking spoon: A sturdy spoon helps ensure even mixing and prevents sticking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients

This bright and citrusy Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo is decadently creamy, full of garlic, parmesan, and tangy lemon. It’s then topped with buttery lemon pepper seasoned chicken tenders and lemon wedges for serving.

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs chicken tenderloins (breasts or thighs work too)
• 2-3 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning

For the Pasta

• 12 oz dry linguini pasta (about 3/4 of a 1 lb. box)

For the Sauce

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 6 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 lemon (zest of)
• 3/4 cup dry white grape juice (good enough to drink)
• 1 cup chicken stock
• 2.5 – 3 cups half and half (start with 2.5 cups)
• 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning (adjust salt if needed)
• 2 teaspoons freshly cracked pepper
• 2/3 cup parmesan (grated)

How to Make Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo (One-Pan)

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Drizzle the chicken with olive oil and season liberally with lemon pepper seasoning. If you’re using salt-free seasoning, add salt as well.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large, deep skillet over medium-low heat. Add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil. Cook the chicken about 3 minutes per side until cooked through. Cook for an additional minute while adding in 1 tablespoon butter to coat the chicken. Once done, set aside under tented foil.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic

In the same skillet, add 3 more tablespoons of butter along with all minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Deglaze the pan with dry white grape juice and cook for about 4-5 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Add in lemon juice, chicken stock, and half-and-half. Whisk in additional lemon pepper seasoning along with freshly cracked pepper. Bring this mixture to a low boil while tasting to adjust flavors as needed.

Step 5: Add Pasta

Add the linguini directly into the pan. Let it soften slightly for about 1 minute so it can be submerged in liquid—if preferred, break the pasta in half.

Step 6: Simmer Until Al Dente

Simmer for about 8-10 minutes or until al dente while tossing occasionally for even cooking.

Step 7: Combine Everything

When ready to serve, add grated parmesan cheese and toss everything gently to coat evenly. Top with chicken tenders, extra lemon zest, lemon wedges, and an optional sprinkle of lemon pepper seasoning if desired.

Enjoy this delicious Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo that’s sure to impress at your dinner table!

How to Serve Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo (One-Pan)

Serving Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo is a delightful experience that can elevate any dinner gathering. This dish not only looks stunning but offers a bright and creamy flavor that pleases the palate. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Elegant Plating

• Arrange the pasta in a shallow bowl and top with chicken tenders, ensuring the lemon zest and wedges are placed artfully for visual appeal.

Fresh Herb Garnish

• Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top of the dish just before serving. The herbs add color and a fresh aroma that complements the lemon flavor.

Extra Lemon Wedges

• Serve additional lemon wedges on the side for those who enjoy an extra citrus kick. This allows guests to customize their experience.

Grated Parmesan Table Side

• Offer a small bowl of grated parmesan cheese at the table for guests who may want to enhance their servings even more.

How to Perfect Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo (One-Pan)

To create the ultimate Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo, consider these simple tips that can take your dish from good to exceptional.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and real parmesan cheese will enhance flavor compared to dried or pre-packaged options.
• Adjust Creaminess: Start with 2.5 cups of half-and-half, but feel free to add more for a richer sauce based on your preference.
• Toss Pasta Well: Ensure that the pasta is well-coated in the sauce by tossing it thoroughly before serving.
• Control Seasoning: Taste your sauce before adding salt; often, seasoning blends provide enough saltiness on their own.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo (One-Pan)

Pairing side dishes with Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo can create a balanced meal that impresses every guest. Here’s a list of complementary sides you might consider serving alongside this delicious main course.

1. Garlic Bread
   Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, garlic bread adds a crunchy contrast.
2. Caesar Salad
   A classic salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing provides freshness.
3. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition while balancing out the creamy pasta.
4. Roasted Asparagus
   Roasted asparagus brings a slightly nutty flavor and complements the citrus in your dish beautifully.
5. Caprese Salad
   Made with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, this salad adds a refreshing touch to your dinner.
6. Antipasto Platter
   An assortment of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables can serve as an appetizer while waiting for the main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo, a few common mistakes can hinder your dish’s success. Here’s how to avoid them.

• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can result in dry meat. To prevent this, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
• Not seasoning enough: A bland dish is unappealing. Be generous with lemon pepper seasoning to enhance flavors, and taste as you cook to adjust seasoning.
• Using cold ingredients: Adding cold ingredients to a hot pan can shock the cooking process. Ensure that your chicken stock and other liquids are at room temperature before use.
• Skipping the pasta water: Not reserving some pasta water can lead to a thick sauce. Always save a cup of pasta water before draining, which can help adjust sauce consistency later.
• Neglecting to deglaze the pan: Failing to deglaze after cooking the chicken may cause a lack of depth in flavor. Use your grape juice to scrape up any brown bits for extra taste.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo (One-Pan)

• Freeze in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 2 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the sauce may expand when frozen.

Reheating Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo (One-Pan)

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power, stirring every minute until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of chicken stock or half and half in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo gluten-free?

You can substitute regular linguini with gluten-free pasta made from rice or corn, ensuring everyone can enjoy this dish.

Can I use different types of protein in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can swap chicken with turkey or even lamb for varied flavors while keeping the same creamy sauce base.

What side dishes pair well with Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo (One-Pan)?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus, or even a crisp green salad for added freshness.

How do I know when my pasta is al dente?

Pasta is al dente when it’s cooked but still firm when bitten. Taste it during cooking for perfect texture!

Conclusion

Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo is not only creamy and delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. Customize it by adding your favorite veggies or trying different proteins! Don’t hesitate—give this one-pan wonder a try for your next meal!

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