This bright and tasty cilantro lime chicken pasta is a wonderful mix of flavors! Juicy chicken, fresh cilantro, and zesty lime come together for a delightful dish that’s sure to please.
I can’t help but smile when this pasta is on the table! The light, refreshing taste makes it perfect for any day. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up—just cook, mix, and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Spaghetti is a classic choice, but feel free to use any pasta you like! Whole wheat, gluten-free, or even zoodles (zucchini noodles) work great here for a lighter option.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are super convenient, but you can substitute them with chicken thighs for a juicier flavor. Tofu is a great plant-based swap if you’d like a vegetarian version.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is key for that bright flavor, but if you’re not a fan, parsley makes a decent substitute. Just keep in mind that it will change the taste a bit.
Lime: Fresh limes give the best flavor, but bottled lime juice can work in a pinch. Use about 2 tablespoons of bottled juice to replace the fresh limes.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds richness, but you can use Pecorino Romano or any hard cheese you like. Nutritional yeast is a great vegan alternative!
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but follow these steps for tender, flavorful results:
- Always start with evenly sized pieces for uniform cooking. Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks.
- Season generously with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Heat the skillet well before adding the chicken; this helps get a nice sear.
- Let the chicken cook without stirring for a few minutes to get that golden brown color. Then stir occasionally until fully cooked.
- Remove chicken once cooked through to prevent overcooking and keep it juicy. It will be cooked again when added back into the sauce.
By following these tips, your chicken will turn out perfectly every time!
Cilantro Lime Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Zest of 1 lime
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or pasta cooking water (to create a light sauce)
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced (optional)
For Garnishing:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Lime wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes. You’ll spend around 10-15 minutes preparing and cooking the ingredients, plus the time it takes to boil the pasta. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Remember to reserve about 1/4 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining it. This water helps create a nice sauce later!
2. Sauté the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the chicken to be fully cooked and beautifully brown on the outside. Once done, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside.
3. Cook the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. If you like onions, toss them in now and cook until they are soft, which should take about 3 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Cook for another 30 seconds until your kitchen smells amazing!
4. Combine Chicken and Sauce
Time to bring it all together! Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in the lime zest, lime juice, and either chicken broth or the reserved pasta water. This will help loosen the mixture and create a lovely sauce.
5. Mix It Up
Now, add the cooked pasta and chopped cilantro to the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through. This is where all those delicious flavors come together!
6. Finish With Cheese
Take the skillet off the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Taste your creation, and if it needs a bit more zing, add extra salt, pepper, or lime juice. Each bite should burst with flavor!
7. Serve and Enjoy
Your Cilantro Lime Chicken Pasta is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it immediately, garnishing with more fresh cilantro and lime wedges on the side for that extra touch. Enjoy the fresh and tangy flavors that make this dish a family favorite!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is a classic choice, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free options. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose!
What Can I Substitute for Chicken?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, tofu or tempeh works great! For a lighter option, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for more flavor and moisture.
How to Store Leftovers?
Save any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it from drying out.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder dish, simply omit the crushed red pepper flakes. You can also replace it with a dash of black pepper for flavor without the heat.
