Recipe: Lemon Garlic Chicken and Zucchini Pasta

Serves 4.

Note: Done in less than 30 minutes, this quick and easy creamy pasta is packed with tender bites of chicken and zucchini, bathed in a garlicky lemon sauce. From Meredith Deeds.

• 12 oz. uncooked cavatappi, farfalle or penne pasta

• 1 tbsp. olive oil

• 1 lb. chicken tenders, cut into 1-in. pieces

• 1/2 tsp. salt, divided

• 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper, divided

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 c. low-sodium chicken broth

• 3/4 c. heavy cream

• Zest of 1 lemon

• 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice

• 2 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley leaves

Directions

Cook pasta according to package directions, using the minimum time. Drain.

Meanwhile, in a nonstick 12-inch skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Cook chicken, stirring, until thoroughly cooked, about 5 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer chicken to a plate. Add the zucchini and cook, stirring occasionally, until slightly browned, about 4 minutes. Transfer to a plate. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.

Add the broth, cream, zest and remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper to the skillet and cook over high heat, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes, or until slightly thickened. Stir in the lemon juice. Add the cooked pasta, chicken, zucchini and Parmesan cheese to the sauce and cook, stirring occasionally, until hot, about 1 to 2 minutes. Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with parsley and more Parmesan cheese if desired.

Calories735Fat26 gSodium800 mg

Carbohydrates79 gSaturated fat12 gTotal sugars5 g

Protein46 gCholesterol125 mgDietary fiber6 g