Herb Chicken & Lemon Pea Pasta
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes. Chicken thighs work well in the air fryer and stay juicy. Adjust the cooking time depending on the size of the thighs.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
For the best results, use thawed chicken breasts so they cook evenly and season properly. Frozen chicken will need extra cooking time.
How do I keep air fryer chicken breasts juicy?
Avoid overcooking and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Pounding thicker breasts to an even thickness also helps.
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen peas?
Yes. Fresh peas work well when in season, but frozen peas are convenient and cook quickly.
Chef’s Tips
- Pat chicken breasts dry before seasoning for better browning.
- Pound thicker chicken breasts for more even cooking.
- Reserve pasta water to help the sauce cling to the pasta.
- Fresh lemon zest adds the best flavour, so don’t skip it.
Herb Chicken & Pea Pasta
Juicy air fryer chicken breast paired with a bright lemon pea pasta made with garlic, fresh herbs, and parmesan. A simple, flavourful dinner that’s easy to make and full of fresh Mediterranean-inspired flavours.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp smoked paprika optional
- 1 tsp dried oregano or thyme
- 1½ tsp salt or to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper
Lemon Pea Pasta
- 1 lb pasta of your choice
- 2 cups frozen peas
- 8 tbsp unsalted butter
- 7 tbsp olive oil
- 8 garlic cloves thinly sliced
- 1 large shallot finely chopped
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional
- Zest of 1 lemon
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 handful fresh parsley chopped
- ¾-1 cup parmesan cheese freshly grated
- Salt to taste
Instructions
Chicken (Air Fryer Method)
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towel. If they are thick, pound them to an even thickness.
- Coat the chicken breasts with olive oil.
- In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, turmeric, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Season both sides of the chicken evenly.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each piece.
- Air fry for 15–22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Transfer the chicken to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Chicken (Oven Method)
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts on a parchment-lined baking sheet or lightly greased baking dish.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, depending on thickness, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Lemon Pea Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente, reserving 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Meanwhile, melt the butter with the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
- Add the garlic and shallot and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring often, until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and peas. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Add the drained pasta, parsley, and parmesan cheese.
- Toss until the pasta is coated, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, or more lemon juice if needed.
- To Serve: Divide the lemon butter pasta among serving plates. Top with sliced air fryer chicken breast and garnish with extra parmesan, chopped parsley, and a little fresh lemon zest.
Notes
Storage
- Fridge: Store the chicken and pasta separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: The cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- The pasta is best enjoyed fresh, as the butter sauce may separate after freezing.
- Reheating: Reheat the pasta gently with a splash of water or chicken stock to loosen the sauce.
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- Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet, oven, or microwave until warmed through.
Tried this recipe?
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Mention @thewifewiththeknife or tag #wifewiththeknife
