Pea & Mint Chicken Pasta

Bring the vibrant flavors of a spring garden to your table with this Pea & Mint Chicken Pasta. This dish is a beautiful balance of savory, zesty, and refreshing notes, making it an ideal choice for a light yet satisfying dinner. The combination of tender sautéed chicken and sweet peas is elevated by the bright aroma of fresh mint and a touch of lemon zest.

Merken

This recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can transform into a sophisticated meal. The secret lies in the pan sauce, where the chicken broth, butter, and lemon juice meld with freshly grated Parmesan to create a silky coating for every piece of pasta. It’s quick enough for a busy Tuesday but elegant enough for weekend guests.

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 best flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice and high-quality Parmesan. Reserving the pasta water is a crucial step; the starch in the water helps emulsify the butter and cheese into a smooth, restaurant-quality sauce that clings to the penne.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and substitute with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini. If you prefer a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of chili flakes while sautéing the garlic for a gentle spicy kick.

Serviervorschläge

This Pea & Mint Chicken Pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. Serve it warm, garnished with extra fresh mint leaves and lemon zest for a beautiful presentation.

Merken

Whether you're enjoying this meal on a breezy patio or at your family dining table, this recipe brings a refreshing change of pace to your pasta rotation. Simple, clean, and delicious, it is a dish that highlights the best of spring's ingredients in every bite.