Name: Creamy Cilantro Lime Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 2
Ingredients: 8 ounces spagetti; Reserved cooked pasta water; Additional cilantro for garnish; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 pound chicken breast; Salt and pepper to taste; 3 cloves garlic; 2 tablespoons lime juice; 1/4 cup chicken broth; 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro; 2/3 cups heavy cream; 2/3 cups milk; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese

Cilantro Lime Chicken Pasta

Looking for a scrumptious, quick dinner bursting with flavor? Look no further! Our Creamy Cilantro-Lime Chicken Pasta is a mouthwatering fusion of zesty lime, garlic, and cilantro, all embraced in a luscious homemade Alfredo sauce. This delightful dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect pick for those busy summer evenings.

Why Choose Creamy Cilantro Lime Chicken Pasta?

Super fast and easy to make: In just 30 minutes, you can go from kitchen prep to a plateful of scrumptious goodness. Perfect for those bustling summer evenings when time is of the essence.
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: No need for an extensive shopping list. With basic items like chicken, lime, garlic, and cilantro, you’ll create a masterpiece that tastes like it took hours to perfect.
Versatility at Its Best: Whether you opt for chicken breast or thighs, gluten-free or regular pasta, or experiment with different cheeses, this recipe accommodates your preferences. It’s your canvas; paint it with your culinary creativity.

How to make Cilantro Lime Chicken Pasta

Ingredients:

For the Sauce:

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 lb chicken breast, sliced
Salt and pepper to taste
3 garlic cloves, minced

2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed for an extra kick)
¼ cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped

⅔ cups heavy cream
⅔ cups milk
½ cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese

For the Pasta:

8 oz spaghetti (gluten-free option: brown rice spaghetti)
Reserved cooked pasta water

Additional cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

Heat olive oil in a skillet, season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown. Remove from skillet.

In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic, lime juice, and chicken broth until reduced. Add chopped cilantro.
Pour in heavy cream and milk, bring to a boil, then add cheese, stirring until melted. Remove from heat.
Cook pasta, reserving some pasta water. Add pasta to the sauce with half of the cooked chicken. Mix well and season.

Top with the remaining chicken, garnish with cilantro, and serve.

Cook’s Tips for Cilantro Lime Chicken Pasta :

Use freshly squeezed lime juice for a burst of flavor.

If the sauce thickens too much, add reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
Customize with your preferred cheese – mozzarella or Parmesan both work beautifully.

Burning questions

Can I make it gluten-free? Absolutely! Just switch to gluten-free brown rice spaghetti and enjoy the same delightful experience.
What cheese should I use? The choice is yours! Whether you prefer the gooey goodness of mozzarella or the sharpness of Parmesan, the result will be equally delectable.
Any tips for reheating? This pasta loves to be reheated on the stovetop. Just reserve some pasta water, and your leftovers will be as mouthwatering as the first serving.

Storing Tips for Your Creamy Cilantro-Lime Chicken Pasta

Here are some tips on how to store cilantro lime chicken pasta

Refrigeration is Key:
- Transfer any leftover pasta into an airtight container. The airtight seal prevents the absorption of unwanted odors from your fridge.
- Ensure the pasta is cooled to room temperature before refrigerating. Placing hot pasta in the fridge can lead to condensation, affecting the sauce’s consistency.
Labeling for Easy Identification:
- Consider labeling the container with the date to keep track of freshness. This helps you prioritize consuming the leftovers within a reasonable timeframe.

Reheating with Care:
- When ready to enjoy your leftovers, opt for reheating on the stovetop. This method allows you to control the heat and add reserved pasta water or a bit of cream to maintain the desired consistency.
- If using a microwave, add a splash of water to the pasta before reheating. This helps prevent dryness and ensures a more even distribution of heat.

Freeze for Future Cravings:
- Yes, you can freeze Creamy Cilantro-Lime Chicken Pasta! However, keep in mind that the texture of the pasta may change slightly upon thawing.
- Use a freezer-safe container and leave some space at the top for expansion. Alternatively, freeze individual portions in airtight bags.
- Thaw the frozen pasta overnight in the refrigerator for the best results.
Freshen Up with Garnishes:
- Before serving reheated pasta, consider adding a fresh burst of cilantro, a sprinkle of lime zest, or a dash of freshly ground pepper. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also revitalizes the flavors.

Avoid Overcooking during Reheating:
- To maintain the pasta’s al dente texture, avoid overcooking during reheating. Keep an eye on the process and test for doneness as needed.

This Creamy Cilantro-Lime Chicken Pasta is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of delightful flavors in every bite. So, gather around, savor the goodness, and make your dinner a memorable one!