Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo (One-Pan)

This Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo (One-Pan) is a delightful and creamy dish that brings a burst of citrus flavor to your dinner table. Quick and easy to prepare, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. With its rich garlic, parmesan, and tangy lemon flavors, it offers a comforting meal in just 30 minutes. Plus, the one-pan method ensures minimal cleanup while delivering maximum taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• One-Pan Cooking: Simplifies the cooking process and reduces cleanup time.
• Flavorful Combination: The bright lemon pepper seasoning paired with creamy Alfredo sauce creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Versatile Ingredients: Perfect for customizing with your favorite vegetables or proteins.
• Family-Friendly: A delicious meal that everyone will love, from kids to adults.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delectable recipe, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process seamless.

Essential Kitchen Tools

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

Why These Tools Matter

• Large deep skillet: Provides ample space for cooking chicken and pasta together without overflowing.
• Cooking spoon: Essential for stirring the sauce and ensuring even cooking of the pasta.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Guarantees accurate ingredient portions for consistent results.
• Knife and cutting board: Necessary for preparing garlic and zesting lemons efficiently.

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.

• 1.5 lbs chicken tenderloins (breasts or thighs work too)
• 12 oz dry linguini pasta (about 3/4 of a 1 lb. box)
• 2-3 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
• 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
• 1 cup chicken stock
• 2.5 – 3 cups half and half
• 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
• 2 teaspoons freshly cracked pepper
• 2/3 cup parmesan (grated)

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

Step 1: Season 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 to medium-low and add 2–3 tablespoons of olive oil. Cook the chicken about three minutes per side or until cooked through. Cook for one additional minute, adding in one tablespoon of butter, tossing the chicken to coat. Set aside under tented foil.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic

In the same skillet, add three more tablespoons of butter along with all the minced garlic. Sauté for one minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pan

Deglaze with dry white grape juice and cook for four to five minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Add in lemon juice, chicken stock, and half-and-half. Whisk in lemon pepper seasoning and freshly cracked pepper. Bring to a low boil while tasting to adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 6: Add Pasta

Add the pasta directly into the pan. Once it softens slightly after about one minute, it should be flexible enough to nestle into the pan and submerge in the liquid (or you can break the pasta in half if you prefer).

Step 7: Simmer

Simmer for eight to ten minutes or until al dente, tossing occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 8: Finish & Serve

Once it’s ready to serve, add parmesan cheese and toss to coat evenly. Top with chicken tenders, extra lemon zest, lemon wedges, and a sprinkle of lemon pepper seasoning if desired. Enjoy your delicious Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo!

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

Serving Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a few thoughtful touches. This creamy dish pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments and garnishes, making every plate look as good as it tastes.

Pair with Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: The slight bitterness of steamed broccoli balances the creaminess of the Alfredo sauce.
• Roasted Asparagus: Tossed in olive oil and salt, roasted asparagus adds a crunchy texture that complements the dish.

Garnish for Extra Flavor

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley sprinkled on top provides color and a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve alongside for an extra citrusy kick that enhances the lemon pepper seasoning.

Add a Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing and croutons offers a crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Arugula Salad: A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette brings brightness and freshness to the meal.

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

To achieve the best results with your Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish is both flavorful and visually appealing.

• Bold Seasoning: Use generous amounts of lemon pepper seasoning to enhance the chicken’s flavor. Adjust according to your taste preference.
• Fresh Ingredients: Opt for freshly squeezed lemon juice and freshly cracked pepper for maximum flavor impact.
• Monitor Pasta Cooking: Keep an eye on the pasta while it simmers to prevent overcooking. Al dente pasta absorbs the sauce beautifully.
• Adjust Creaminess: Start with 2.5 cups of half and half, adding more as needed for your desired creaminess level after tasting.
• Resting Time for Chicken: Allow the cooked chicken to rest before slicing. This helps retain its juices and ensures tenderness.
• Thickening Sauce: If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer longer to reduce further before adding pasta.

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

Complementing your Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo with side dishes elevates your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options that pair beautifully.

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy bread slathered in garlic butter is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add freshness and acidity.
3. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted until crispy, these sprouts provide a deliciously savory element to balance the creamy pasta.
4. Coleslaw: A light coleslaw adds crunch and a tangy note that refreshes the palate between bites.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brushed with butter is a sweet addition that complements the dish’s flavors.
6. Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad packed with vegetables offers a healthy side option that adds texture and nutrition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo, it’s easy to overlook certain details that can affect the dish’s outcome. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Bold seasoning: Not using enough lemon pepper seasoning can lead to a bland dish. Ensure you season the chicken generously for maximum flavor.
• Bold pasta cooking: Overcooking the pasta is a common pitfall. Aim for al dente to maintain a firm texture that complements the creamy sauce.
• Bold ingredient timing: Adding all ingredients at once can disrupt the cooking process. Follow the steps carefully, especially when combining liquids and pasta.
• Bold sauce thickness: Skipping the deglazing step might result in a less flavorful sauce. Use white grape juice as instructed to enhance the taste and consistency.
• Bold cheese incorporation: Forgetting to add parmesan at the right time can affect creaminess. Toss in freshly grated parmesan just before serving for best results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing it in containers.
• Keep any extra lemon wedges separate in a small container.

Freezing Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo (One-Pan)

• This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for storage.
• To prevent freezer burn, remove as much air as possible from bags before sealing.

Reheating Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo (One-Pan)

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the dish with foil. Bake until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place portions in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or half and half to restore creaminess while stirring often.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo (One-Pan) gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free linguini or any other gluten-free pasta alternative available in stores. Follow the same cooking instructions.

Can I customize this Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo (One-Pan) recipe?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for an extra nutritional boost. Feel free to adjust seasonings based on your taste preferences.

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

A crisp green salad or garlic bread complements this dish nicely. You could also serve it with steamed vegetables for added color and nutrients.

How do I store leftover Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo (One-Pan)?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

This Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner or special occasion. With options for customization and easy storage, you’ll find yourself making this dish time and again!