This Cilantro Lime Chicken Pasta is a zesty delight! Tender chicken is mixed with pasta, fresh cilantro, and a splash of lime to lift the flavors. It’s a fun twist on a classic dish.
I love how quick this meal comes together. Just cook the chicken, toss everything in, and dinner is ready! Perfect for busy nights when you need something tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Spaghetti or linguine works well, but you can use any long pasta like fettuccine or even gluten-free pasta if needed. I personally enjoy using whole wheat pasta for a nuttier flavor and extra fiber.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great as they cook quickly. If you’re looking for alternatives, feel free to use thighs for a juicier option, or even shrimp if you prefer seafood!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is key for that zesty flavor. If you’re not a fan, spinach or parsley can be a good substitute, but the taste will be different. I think using a mix of herbs can add an interesting twist!
Creamy Component: Sour cream gives a tangy creaminess, but Greek yogurt is a healthy switch that works well too. You can also try cottage cheese for a lighter option.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken is Juicy and Tender?
Cooking chicken to perfection is crucial for this dish! To keep it juicy, try these tips:
- Start with chicken at room temperature for even cooking. Season them well with salt and pepper right before cooking.
- Use a medium-high heat in the skillet to achieve a nice golden color outside while keeping it tender inside.
- Cook just until no longer pink inside. Overcooking the chicken makes it dry, so check around 5-7 minutes and remove as soon as it’s fully cooked.
Following these tips will help your chicken stay moist and delicious, making your pasta dish even more enjoyable!
Cilantro Lime Chicken Pasta
Ingredients:
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, zested and juiced
- 1/3 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lime wedges for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 30 minutes to make! You’ll spend around 10-15 minutes prepping the ingredients and cooking, and most of the time is just getting everything mixed together. It’s a quick and delicious meal perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking your pasta. Boil water in a large pot, add a pinch of salt, and cook spaghetti or linguine according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. Be sure to save about 1/4 cup of the pasta water for later!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant—be careful not to burn it!
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and bring back the cooked pasta into the skillet. Stir in the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime zest, lime juice, and Parmesan cheese. Mix everything well, adding the reserved pasta water little by little if the sauce is too thick and needs to loosen up.
5. Add Flavor:
If you like a little heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes at this point! Then gently fold in the chopped cilantro for that fresh flavor.
6. Bring it All Together:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss everything together until well mixed. Give it a taste, and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the pasta hot, garnishing with more cilantro and lime wedges on the side. Enjoy the bright, zesty flavors of your Cilantro Lime Chicken Pasta!
Happy cooking!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great alternative that adds more fiber and a nuttier taste. Just follow the cooking time on the package, as it may differ slightly from regular pasta.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the chicken and replacing it with a plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas. Sauté the tofu until golden for a nice texture!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to help loosen the sauce if needed.
Is There a Substitute for Sour Cream?
If you’re looking for a substitute, Greek yogurt works wonderfully in this recipe! You can also use a dairy-free yogurt if you’re avoiding dairy. Just remember to taste and adjust the seasoning as flavors may differ slightly.
