Lemon-Dill Chicken Pasta Medley
Indulge in this luxurious Lemon-Dill Chicken Pasta Medley, a creamy and aromatic dish that's bound to become a staple in your weekly menu. This one-pot wonder brings together tender pieces of chicken cooked in a tangy lemon and dill sauce, enveloped in velvety cream, and paired with perfectly al dente pasta shells. With its rich flavors and delightful aromas, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that's simple enough for weekday dinners yet elegant enough for entertaining. Serve it alongside garlic bread for the ultimate comfort meal, but it's also delicious on its own for a satisfying treat.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Medium pasta shells
1 lb (none)
White wine
1/3 cup (none)
Extra-strong chicken stock
1/4 cup (none)
Fresh dill, finely chopped
3 tablespoons (finely chopped)
Boneless skinless chicken breast
1 lb (cut into small bite-size pieces)
Whipping cream (35%)
1 1/2 cups (none)
Fresh lemon
1 (juiced)
Grated Parmesan cheese
to taste (none)
Instructions
1
1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta shells and cook for 3 minutes; this will partially cook them. Drain the pasta, rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process, and set aside.
2
2. In a large skillet over moderately high heat, combine the white wine, chicken stock, fresh dill, and bite-sized chicken pieces. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Stir occasionally and allow the sauce to reduce by half, about 10 minutes, taking care as the chicken releases its own juices.
3
3. Once the sauce has reduced, stir in the whipping cream and the fresh lemon juice, bringing the mixture back to a boil. Add in the drained pasta shells and continue to simmer over moderately high heat. Stir constantly for about 5-7 minutes, until the sauce thickens and clings beautifully to the pasta.
4
4. Finally, stir in a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese. Taste and season with salt and pepper as desired, mixing until well combined.
5
5. Serve the dish immediately, garnished with extra dill or Parmesan if desired, and enjoy the burst of flavors.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lemon-Dill Chicken Pasta Medley?
It is a luxurious, creamy pasta dish featuring tender chicken pieces cooked in a tangy lemon and dill sauce, finished with Parmesan cheese.
What type of pasta is recommended for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of medium pasta shells, which are excellent for holding the creamy sauce.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, while shells are recommended, you can substitute with other shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle.
What kind of chicken should I use?
Use 1 lb of boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into small bite-size pieces.
How do I partially cook the pasta?
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the shells, and cook for only 3 minutes before draining and rinsing with cold water.
Why do I rinse the pasta under cold water?
Rinsing stops the cooking process so the pasta doesn't become mushy when it is finished in the sauce later.
What is the purpose of the white wine in the sauce?
The white wine adds acidity and depth of flavor, helping to deglaze the pan and create a sophisticated base for the sauce.
Can I substitute the white wine?
You can replace the wine with additional chicken stock or a tablespoon of white wine vinegar diluted in water if you prefer to avoid alcohol.
What is 'extra-strong' chicken stock?
It refers to a more concentrated chicken broth or stock, which provides a deeper savory flavor to the reduction.
How much fresh dill is needed?
The recipe requires 3 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh dill.
Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?
Yes, but use only 1 tablespoon of dried dill as it is more concentrated than fresh.
What type of cream is best for this pasta?
35% whipping cream is used to create a velvety, rich, and stable sauce that thickens well.
How do I prepare the lemon for this dish?
You will need the juice of one fresh lemon to provide the signature tanginess.
When do I add the chicken to the pan?
The chicken is added at the beginning of the sauce-making process, combined with the wine, stock, and dill.
How long should the sauce reduce?
The initial mixture of wine, stock, and chicken should simmer for about 10 minutes until reduced by half.
How do I thicken the final sauce?
The sauce thickens by simmering the cream, lemon juice, and parboiled pasta together for 5-7 minutes while stirring constantly.
When should I add the Parmesan cheese?
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese at the very end, once the sauce has thickened and the pasta is fully cooked.
Is this recipe considered a one-pot meal?
It is described as a one-pot wonder, though you do need a pot for parboiling the pasta before finishing everything in a large skillet.
What can I serve as a side dish?
This pasta pairs perfectly with garlic bread or a light green side salad.
Can I add vegetables to this medley?
Yes, peas, asparagus, or sautéed spinach would make excellent additions to this dish.
How much Parmesan cheese should I use?
The amount is 'to taste,' but a generous handful is recommended for the best flavor and texture.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used and will result in slightly juicier meat.
Is this dish spicy?
No, it is a savory and tangy dish. You can add red pepper flakes if you desire heat.
How do I know when the sauce is done?
The sauce is done when it thickens enough to cling beautifully to the pasta shells.
Should I season with salt and pepper?
Yes, taste the dish after adding the Parmesan and season with salt and pepper as desired.
How do I garnish the dish?
Garnish with extra fresh dill or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese just before serving.
Can I make this dairy-free?
You could try using a dairy-free heavy cream substitute and nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan, though the flavor profile will change.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
Based on 1 lb of pasta and 1 lb of chicken, it typically serves 4 to 6 people.
Can I store and reheat leftovers?
Yes, store in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce.
Is this recipe suitable for entertaining guests?
Absolutely, its elegant flavors and creamy texture make it sophisticated enough for dinner parties while remaining simple to prepare.