This Cilantro Lime Chicken Pasta is a bright and tasty dish that’s perfect for any day. The juicy chicken combined with fresh cilantro and zesty lime makes every bite refreshing!
It’s like a sunny day on your plate! 🌞 I love how quick this meal is to whip up. Just cook the pasta, grill the chicken, and toss it all together for a delicious dinner in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Spaghetti or linguine work great here. If you’re gluten-free, try zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta. They keep the dish light and fresh.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts provide lean protein. You can substitute with chicken thighs for more flavor, or use tofu for a vegetarian option.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives a wonderful flavor. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, fresh parsley or basil can work as a milder herb alternative.
Lime: Fresh lime juice is best, but in a pinch, bottled lime juice works too. The zest adds extra flavor, so don’t skip it if you can use fresh!
How Do I Get My Chicken Tender and Juicy?
Cooking chicken perfectly is key for this dish. Here’s how to keep it tender:
- Cut the chicken into equal-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Cook in batches if needed. This helps in achieving a nice brown color.
- Cook until just done. Overcooking can lead to dryness. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Letting it rest for a few minutes off the heat will keep it juicy. Slicing it right before mixing will also help maintain moisture.
Cilantro Lime Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You Will Need:
Pasta:
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine pasta
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced (optional)
- 1 lime, juiced and zested
Seasoning and Cooking:
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Lime wedges, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This entire dish takes about 25-30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and around 15 minutes cooking everything to delicious perfection.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta, but remember to reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta water for later!
2. Cook the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and season it with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant (but be careful not to burn it!). If you’re adding zucchini, throw that in next and cook for 2-3 minutes until it’s slightly tender.
4. Combine Everything:
Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained pasta, lime juice, lime zest, red chili flakes, and chopped cilantro to the mix. Toss everything together, and if it seems a bit dry, drizzle in a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
5. Season & Serve:
Taste your pasta and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the dish warm, garnished with extra cilantro and lime wedges on the side for that refreshing kick!
Enjoy your fresh and flavorful Cilantro Lime Chicken Pasta! It’s sure to be a hit. 🍽️
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great option for a healthier twist. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary slightly from regular pasta.
What Can I Substitute for Zucchini?
If you don’t have zucchini on hand or prefer something different, diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or spinach are excellent substitutes! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Definitely! You can increase the red chili flakes or add diced jalapeños for a kick. Just taste as you go to make sure it suits your spice preference.
