Pea & Mint Chicken Pasta

This Pea & Mint Chicken Pasta is a vibrant, spring-inspired pasta dish featuring tender chicken, sweet peas, and fresh mint in a zesty lemon sauce. It offers a bright and refreshing take on a classic chicken pasta, making it an ideal choice for a light yet satisfying dinner.

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The combination of zesty lemon and cool mint creates a sophisticated flavor profile that perfectly complements the savory chicken and sweet peas. This dish is easy to prepare, bringing a touch of gourmet flair to your weeknight routine.

Ingredients

• Pasta & Chicken: 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
• Vegetables & Aromatics: 1 cup (150 g) frozen peas, thawed, 2 cloves garlic, finely minced, Zest of 1 lemon, Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tbsp)
• Sauce & Herbs: 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

Always reserve your pasta water before draining; the starchy liquid is the key to achieving a silky, glossy sauce that binds perfectly to the penne or fusilli. Ensure your peas are fully thawed before adding them to the skillet to maintain a consistent cooking temperature.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a vegetarian version, omit chicken and substitute with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini. You can also try adding a pinch of chili flakes for gentle heat if you prefer a spicier finish.

Serviervorschläge

This pasta dish pairs beautifully with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. Serve immediately while hot, ensuring a generous garnish of extra Parmesan and fresh mint for maximum freshness.

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With its bright colors and fresh flavors, this Pea & Mint Chicken Pasta is a wonderful way to celebrate the season. It is a quick, delicious meal that is sure to become a household favorite.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the chicken and substitute with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for a satisfying vegetarian version.

→ What pasta shapes work best?

Penne and fusilli are excellent choices as their ridges and curves capture the sauce beautifully, though other short pasta shapes work well too.

→ Can I use dried mint instead of fresh?

Fresh mint is recommended for its bright flavor, but you can substitute with 1 tablespoon dried mint if fresh isn't available.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of pasta water to restore the sauce's consistency.

→ What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the bright citrus and fresh mint flavors beautifully.