Pea & Mint Chicken Pasta

This Pea & Mint Chicken Pasta is a vibrant, spring-inspired dish that brings together the sweetness of garden peas and the refreshing bite of fresh mint. It's an easy yet elegant meal perfect for weeknights when you want something light but satisfying.

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The secret to this dish is the glossy lemon-herb sauce, which emulsifies beautifully with a touch of reserved pasta water and melted butter, coating every piece of penne perfectly for a luxurious mouthfeel.

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 silky sauce, don't skip the step of reserving the pasta water. The starch in the water helps the butter and Parmesan bind together, creating a professional-grade finish. Also, be sure to use a large enough skillet so you can toss the pasta and chicken comfortably without crowding the pan.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and substitute with sautéed mushrooms or sliced zucchini. If you enjoy a little heat, try adding a pinch of chili flakes during the garlic sautéing step to provide a gentle spicy contrast to the cool mint.

Serviervorschläge

This pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. Serve it warm in shallow bowls, garnished with an extra sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a few whole mint leaves for a beautiful presentation.

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With its refreshing citrus notes and hearty ingredients, this Pea & Mint Chicken Pasta is a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of the season.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use frozen peas for this dish?

Yes, frozen peas work beautifully and are actually recommended. Simply thaw them before adding to the skillet. They retain their sweetness and texture perfectly in this dish.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Penne or fusilli are ideal as they catch and hold the light lemon butter sauce. You can also use farfalle or orecchiette. Avoid long pasta varieties like spaghetti that don't grip the sauce as well.

→ How do I keep the chicken tender?

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and avoid overcooking. Sauté for 5-6 minutes over medium-high heat until golden and just cooked through. Meat continues cooking slightly as it sits, so remove it from heat while still slightly tender.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

This pasta is best served immediately for optimal flavor and texture. However, you can prepare components ahead: cook pasta earlier and store separately, and prepare the sauce just before serving. Mint is best added fresh right before plating.

→ What can I substitute for fresh mint?

Fresh basil provides a similar aromatic quality, though with different flavor notes. Tarragon or dill also complement the lemon well. Avoid dried mint as it lacks the fresh brightness that defines this dish.

→ How do I make this vegetarian?

Omit the chicken and substitute with sautéed mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or zucchini for substance. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The peas and creamy sauce provide plenty of flavor and richness.