Creating Easy Lemon Chicken Pasta is simple, and you can follow these easy steps to get a delicious meal ready in no time:

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, following package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.

2. Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.

3. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.

4. Cook the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.

5. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.

6. Add Liquid Ingredients: Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Scrape the skillet bottom to deglaze and mix well. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

7. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss to combine, incorporating the sauce and add the sliced chicken back into the mix.

8. Check Consistency: If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water to enhance the sauce’s consistency.

9. Season: Stir in the red pepper flakes (if using) and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.

10. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and toss lightly before serving.