I made thisLemon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli Recipe on a busy weeknight, and it instantly felt like something special. The bright lemon aroma filled my kitchen, and I knew it was going to be good.

I love how this dish balances comfort and freshness in every bite. After tasting it, I realized it’s one of those recipes I’ll keep coming back to. If you enjoy light yet satisfying meals, you might also enjoy Asian Salmon and Noodles Recipe for another healthy and flavorful option.

Ingredients

Here’s a quick introduction before we dive in. These ingredients are simple, but each one plays an important role in building flavor and texture. Using fresh, good-quality items really makes a difference in this recipe. You can pair this pasta with Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce Recipe for a protein-packed dinner rotation.

Boneless, skinless chicken breast – 1 pound, cut into bite-sized pieces (lean protein that stays juicy and keeps the dish light)
Dry pasta (penne or rotini) – 12 ounces (short pasta holds the lemony sauce better than long noodles)
Fresh broccoli florets – 3 cups (fresh broccoli stays crisp-tender and doesn’t release excess water like frozen)
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons (adds richness and helps brown the chicken evenly)
Garlic cloves – 3, minced (fresh garlic gives stronger aroma and deeper flavor than jarred garlic)
Lemon zest – from 1 large lemon (adds intense citrus flavor without extra acidity)
Fresh lemon juice – ¼ cup (freshly squeezed juice keeps the sauce bright and clean-tasting)
Chicken broth – ¾ cup (creates a light sauce base instead of using heavy cream)
Grated Parmesan cheese – ½ cup (freshly grated melts smoothly and adds savory depth)
Plain Greek yogurt – ½ cup (adds creaminess while keeping the recipe lighter and tangy)
Salt – ¾ teaspoon (enhances all the flavors without overpowering the lemon)
Black pepper – ½ teaspoon (balances the citrus with gentle warmth)
Red pepper flakes – optional, ¼ teaspoon (adds a mild kick if you like a little heat)
Fresh parsley – 2 tablespoons, chopped (adds freshness and a pop of color at the end)

Note: This recipe serves 4 people based on the ingredient quantities listed above.

Variations

Let me introduce some easy ways to customize this dish. These options help you adapt the recipe to different dietary needs or flavor preferences without losing its charm.

For a dairy-free version, swap the Greek yogurt and Parmesan with dairy-free alternatives or a cashew-based cream. If you want extra protein, shrimp works wonderfully in place of chicken and cooks even faster. To boost flavor, add capers or sun-dried tomatoes for a salty, tangy twist. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can be used without changing the cooking method.

Cooking Time

Here’s a quick overview so you can plan your meal smoothly.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Equipment You Need

Before starting, it helps to have everything ready. These basic tools make the process easier and more enjoyable.

Large pot – for boiling pasta evenly
Colander – to drain pasta and broccoli
Large skillet – to cook chicken and build the sauce
Microplane or grater – for lemon zest and Parmesan
Wooden spoon – for stirring without scratching cookware

How to Make Lemon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli Recipe?

Let me walk you through the process. Each step is simple, and together they create a flavorful, restaurant-style dish at home.

Prepare the Pasta and Broccoli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. During the last two minutes, add broccoli florets to the same pot. Drain everything together and set aside.

Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and fully cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and keep it warm.

Build the Lemon Sauce

In the same skillet, add garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest, then let it simmer gently to reduce slightly and concentrate flavor.

Add Creaminess

Lower the heat and stir in Greek yogurt until smooth. This creates a creamy texture without heaviness. Add Parmesan cheese slowly, stirring until fully melted and combined.

Combine Everything

Return cooked chicken to the skillet, followed by pasta and broccoli. Toss gently until everything is coated evenly in the lemony sauce. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Finish and Garnish

Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes if using. Let it rest for a minute so flavors can settle before serving.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

After making this recipe a few times, I picked up some helpful tricks that really elevate the final dish.

I always reserve a bit of pasta water to thin the sauce if it becomes too thick.
I’ve found that zesting the lemon directly over the pan boosts aroma instantly.
I like tasting the sauce before adding pasta to balance lemon and salt.
Using freshly grated Parmesan makes the sauce smoother and richer.

How to Serve Lemon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli Recipe?

Serving is where you can make this dish shine. I usually plate it in shallow bowls to show off the colors. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan and parsley adds a professional touch. Lemon wedges on the side look great and let everyone adjust the citrus level. This pasta pairs nicely with a light green salad or crusty bread.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick snapshot of what you’re enjoying. This dish is balanced, satisfying, and lighter than traditional creamy pastas.

Calories: Around 420 per serving
Protein: Approximately 35 grams
Carbohydrates: About 45 grams
Fat: Roughly 12 grams

Make Ahead and Storage

Planning ahead makes life easier, and this recipe fits right in.

Make Ahead:
You can cook the chicken and prep the sauce a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers and combine with freshly cooked pasta before serving.

Storage:
Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I store them in a sealed container to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.

Reheating:
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth or water. This helps loosen the sauce and keeps it creamy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Here’s why this dish has become a favorite in my kitchen. These points sum up what makes it so appealing.

This recipe is quick enough for weeknights but feels special enough for guests.

It uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find.
The lemon flavor keeps it light and refreshing.
It’s versatile and adaptable to different diets.
Cleanup is minimal with just one main skillet.

If you’re looking for a meal that’s comforting, bright, and reliable, this lemon chicken pasta with broccoli is one you’ll want to make again and again.

Ash Tyrrell