Pin it Experience the essence of spring with this Pea & Mint Chicken Pasta. This vibrant dish brings together tender chicken breast, sweet green peas, and the refreshing aroma of fresh mint, all tossed in a zesty, silky lemon-Parmesan sauce. It is a light yet satisfying meal that is perfect for a breezy lunch or an effortless dinner.
Pin it The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. By using a single skillet for the chicken and the sauce, you build layers of flavor that perfectly complement the al dente pasta. The addition of starchy pasta water at the end transforms the butter and Parmesan into a restaurant-quality glaze.
Ingredients
- 350 g (12 oz) penne or fusilli pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 300 g), cut into bite-sized strips
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup (150 g) frozen peas, thawed
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tbsp)
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) low-sodium chicken broth
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup (50 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1/4 cup (10 g) fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup (10 g) fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Step 2
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Sauté for 5–6 minutes, until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
- Step 3
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the peas and cook for 2 minutes until heated through.
- Step 4
- Add lemon zest, juice, and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Step 5
- Return the chicken to the skillet. Reduce heat to low, add the cooked pasta, and toss everything together.
- Step 6
- Stir in the butter and Parmesan cheese until melted and a glossy sauce forms. Add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
- Step 7
- Remove from heat and fold in the chopped mint and parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Step 8
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and mint.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the most flavorful result, always grate your Parmesan cheese fresh rather than using pre-shredded varieties, as it melts more smoothly into the sauce. Be careful not to overcook the garlic; 30 seconds is all it takes to release its aroma without turning it bitter.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and substitute it with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini. If you enjoy a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of chili flakes when sautéing the garlic. You can also swap the pasta for a whole-wheat variety for extra fiber.
Serviervorschläge
This pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or some crusty bread to enjoy any leftover lemon sauce.
Pin it With its bright colors and fresh ingredients, this Pea & Mint Chicken Pasta is sure to become a seasonal favorite. It is proof that simple components can create a truly sophisticated and delicious dinner. Enjoy your meal!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can prep ingredients in advance—cook the pasta, sauté the chicken, and chop the mint separately. Combine everything just before serving to maintain the pasta's texture and the fresh flavor of the mint.
- → What can I use instead of chicken?
Sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or shrimp work beautifully as substitutes. For a vegetarian version, use 300g of diced mushrooms or zucchini and replace chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of pasta water to refresh the sauce.
- → Can I use dried mint instead of fresh?
While fresh mint provides the best flavor, you can use 1 tablespoon of dried mint. Add it during cooking rather than at the end for better flavor development.
- → What wine pairs well with this dish?
Crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complement the lemon and mint flavors perfectly. The acidity cuts through the richness of the butter and Parmesan sauce.
- → How can I make this dish spicier?
Add 1/4 teaspoon of red chili flakes when cooking the garlic, or sprinkle them on top before serving. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference.