Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta with Fresh Spinach

A delightful pasta dish featuring tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich, creamy lemon sauce. Perfect for a family dinner!

NewPublished Apr 7, 2026
Prep Time20 min
Cook Time30 min
Total50 min
Servings4
DifficultyEasy

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Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta with Fresh Spinach served in a bowl.

Ingredients

Servings4

Yields 4 servings

  • (12 oz) fettuccine pasta
  • (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • (2 tbsp) olive oil
  • (1 tsp) salt
  • (1/2 tsp) black pepper
  • (3 cloves) garlic, minced
  • (1 cup) heavy cream
  • (1/2 cups) grated Parmesan cheese
  • (1/4 cups) fresh lemon juice
  • (1 tsp) lemon zest
  • (4 cups) fresh spinach
  • (1/4 tsp) red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. 1

    Cook 12 oz fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

  2. 2

    While the pasta cooks, season 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Add 2/4 tsp black pepper and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional).

  3. 3

    In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Remove from skillet and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

  4. 4

    In the same skillet, add 3 cloves minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

  5. 5

    Pour in 1 cup heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice, and 1 tsp lemon zest. Mix well until the sauce is smooth.

  6. 6

    Add 4 cups fresh spinach to the sauce and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. If desired, add 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

  7. 7

    Slice the cooked chicken and add it to the sauce, stirring to combine.

  8. 8

    Toss the cooked fettuccine pasta into the skillet with the creamy sauce and chicken. Mix until the pasta is well coated.

  9. 9

    Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

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