Pea & Mint Chicken Pasta

Bring the vibrant flavors of spring to your dinner table with this refreshing Pea & Mint Chicken Pasta. This dish is a celebration of seasonal brightness, combining tender strips of chicken breast with sweet peas and the aromatic lift of fresh mint, all brought together in a zesty, glossy lemon sauce that feels light yet indulgent.

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The key to the success of this Italian-inspired meal is the balance of textures—the bite of the al dente pasta against the sweetness of the peas and the savory depth of the Parmesan cheese. By finishing the dish in the skillet, the pasta absorbs the flavors of the chicken broth and lemon juice, ensuring every forkful is perfectly seasoned.

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 a smooth cooking process, have your chef's knife and cutting board ready for the aromatics and herbs. Using a zester for the lemon and a fresh grater for the Parmesan will yield the best flavor. Don't forget to keep your colander handy to drain the pasta quickly to prevent it from overcooking.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a vegetarian version, you can omit the chicken and substitute it with sautéed mushrooms or sliced zucchini. If you prefer a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of chili flakes when you sauté the garlic to give the lemon sauce a gentle kick.

Serviervorschläge

This vibrant dish pairs beautifully with a crisp, cold glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. Serve it warm in shallow bowls, garnished with an extra dusting of Parmesan and a few whole mint leaves for a beautiful presentation.

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Whether you are hosting a spring brunch or simply looking for a fresh take on chicken pasta, this Pea & Mint Chicken Pasta is sure to become a seasonal favorite. Enjoy the bright, zesty flavors and the effortless elegance of this easy-to-make dish.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh peas work beautifully. Shell about 2 cups of fresh peas and blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until tender before adding to the skillet in step 3.

→ What pasta shapes work best?

Penne and fusilli are ideal because their ridges and curves catch the sauce well. Farfalle, rotini, or gemelli also work great. Avoid long strands like spaghetti as the sauce won't coat evenly.

→ Can I make this ahead?

The dish is best served immediately, but you can prep components in advance. Cook and season the chicken up to a day ahead, chop herbs, and measure ingredients. Reheat chicken gently before combining.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. The pasta may absorb liquid, so add more as needed.

→ Can I use dried mint instead?

Fresh mint is essential for this dish's bright flavor. Dried mint won't provide the same fresh, aromatic quality. If you lack fresh mint, substitute with fresh basil or increase the parsley.

→ Is the sauce too rich?

The lemon zest and juice cut through the butter and cheese, creating a balanced sauce. You can reduce butter to 2 tablespoons if preferred, or increase lemon juice for extra brightness.