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Zingy Lemon Chicken Pasta

Zingy Lemon Chicken Pasta on a plate
Makes: 4 Servings

This creamy pasta dish with a hint of lemon is sure to be a family favorite. Packed with chicken and topped with crunchy almonds, it can be baked and ready to serve any night of the week.

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces whole wheat spaghetti, uncooked
  • 1 tablespoon tub margarine
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 1/4 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into 3/4-inch pieces)
  • 5 green onions (scallions), sliced
  • 1 clove large garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 1/3 cups chicken broth
  • 2/3 cup skim milk
  • 2 teaspoons prepared mustard
  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • For Topping:
  • 1/4 cup chopped almonds
  • 2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onions (scallions)
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)

Directions

  1. Combine flour, salt, pepper, and cayenne in a saucepan; gradually add chicken broth and skim milk, stirring with a wire whisk until smooth.
  2. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until thickened. Add mustard and lemon juice. Allow to cool. 
  3. Heat margarine and oil in a skillet. Add chicken pieces, green onions, and garlic. Sauté until chicken is just firm and cooked through, about 10 minutes.
  4. Prepare pasta according to package directions and drain. Combine sauce, chicken, and pasta mixture.
  5. Put into a 2 1/2 quart casserole dish. Sprinkle top with almonds, chopped chives, and paprika (if using).
  6. Bake at 375 °F for 10 minutes or until heated through.

Notes

Serving Suggestions: Serve with steamed broccoli, skim milk, and apple slices.

Learn more about:

Source:

MyPlate National Strategic Partners
The Grain Chain

Nutrition Information

Serving Size: 1 serving
Nutrients Amount
Total Calories 561
Total Fat 17 g
Saturated Fat 3 g
Cholesterol 95 mg
Sodium 299 mg
Carbohydrates 62 g
Dietary Fiber 8 g
Total Sugars 5 g
Added Sugars included 0 g
Protein 45 g
Vitamin D 1 mcg
Calcium 129 mg
Iron 4 mg
Potassium 788 mg

N/A will display when nutrient data is unavailable

Please note: nutrient values are subject to change as data is updated

Nutrients Amount
Total Calories 561
Total Fat 17 g
Saturated Fat 3 g
Monounsaturated Fat 7 g
Polyunsaturated Fat 4 g
Linoleic Acid 4 g
α-Linolenic Acid 0.2 g
Omega 3 - EPA 0 g
Omega 3 - DHA 0 g
Cholesterol 95 mg
Carbohydrates 62 g
Dietary Fiber 8 g
Total Sugars 5 g
Added Sugars included 0 g
Protein 45 g
Minerals
Calcium 129 mg
Potassium 788 mg
Sodium 299 mg
Copper 1 mg
Iron 4 mg
Magnesium 152 mg
Phosphorus 554 mg
Selenium 92 mg
Zinc 4 mg
Vitamins
Vitamin A 77 mcg
Vitamin B6 1.2 mg
Vitamin B12 0.5 mcg
Vitamin C 7 mg
Vitamin D 1 mcg
Vitamin E 5 mg
Vitamin K 48 mcg
Folate 83 mcg
Thiamin 0.5 mg
Riboflavin 0.6 mg
Niacin 17 mg
Choline 103 mg

N/A will display when nutrient data is unavailable

Please note: nutrient values are subject to change as data is updated

MyPlate Food Groups

Dairy 1/4 cups
Grains 2 1/2 ounces
Protein Foods 4 ounces
Vegetables 1/4 cups
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MyPlate.gov is based on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025