This lemon chicken rigatoni brings together tender pasta, juicy chicken and a bright, tangy cream sauce for a satisfying dinner that feels both comforting and fresh. Seared lemon slices add a burst of citrus flavor, while Parmesan cheese lends a savory richness that ties everything together.
Roasted broccoli seasoned with garlic powder makes a perfect side, offering a healthy crunch that balances the creamy pasta. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
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Recipe details
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Values are calculated per serving from ingredient amounts and the ingredient nutrition reference per 100g. Allergen and diet labels use available ingredient metadata and name matching; always check product labels for strict diets or allergies. Some ingredient amounts or nutrition values were incomplete, so this is marked as a partial estimate.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Adjust oven rack to top position and preheat to 425°F. Wash and dry produce. Cut broccoli into bite-size pieces. Thinly slice one lemon; quarter the remaining lemon. Mince or grate garlic. Roughly chop parsley.
- Toss broccoli on a baking sheet with a drizzle of oil, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Roast on top rack until browned and tender, 15-20 minutes. If needed, cover with foil to keep warm.
- Once water is boiling, add rigatoni and cook until al dente, 9-11 minutes. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain.
- Pat chicken dry and place between two large pieces of plastic wrap. Pound to about ½-inch thickness. Season with Italian seasoning, salt and pepper. Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until browned and cooked through, 4-6 minutes per side. Transfer to a cutting board; wipe out pan.
- Heat a drizzle of oil in the same pan over medium-high heat. Add lemon slices in a single layer and cook until fragrant and lightly browned, 1-2 minutes. Transfer to a plate. Add garlic to pan and cook until fragrant, 30-60 seconds. Whisk in reserved pasta water, cream sauce base, stock concentrate, Parmesan and juice from two lemon wedges. Cook until slightly thickened, 2-4 minutes. Reduce heat to medium-low; whisk in sour cream and butter until smooth. Slice chicken and add to pan; toss to coat.
- Divide rigatoni among bowls; top with saucy chicken and remaining sauce. Garnish with seared lemon slices and parsley. Serve with roasted broccoli and remaining lemon wedges.
Recipe Tips
For extra flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-shredded.
If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
To save time, you can skip pounding the chicken if the cutlets are already thin.
FAQ
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, any short pasta like penne or fusilli works well in this recipe.
Can I substitute the cream sauce base?
You can use heavy cream mixed with a little chicken broth as a substitute.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.





























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