Lemon Chicken Gemelli Skillet

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Lemon Chicken Gemelli Skillet.

1. Step 1

   Start by bringing a large pot of lightly salted water to a rolling boil.

2. Step 2

   Once boiling, add the gemelli pasta and cook it, stirring occasionally, until it reaches that perfect al dente texture—this should take about 12 minutes.

3. Step 3

   When the pasta is ready, drain it, but don’t forget to reserve a cup of that flavorful cooking water for later.

4. Step 4

   While the pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil along with 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.

5. Step 5

   Season your chicken strips with a sprinkle of Italian seasoning, garlic granules, and a pinch of salt.

6. Step 6

   Once the butter has melted and is bubbling, add the seasoned chicken to the skillet.

7. Step 7

   Sauté the chicken until it turns a lovely golden brown, which should take around 5 minutes.

8. Step 8

   Next, toss in the sliced portobello mushrooms and continue cooking until they soften, about another 5 minutes.

9. Step 9

   Once the chicken and mushrooms are cooked to perfection, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate, keeping them warm while you prepare the sauce.

10. Step 10

    Wipe out the skillet to get rid of any residue, then add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and another tablespoon of butter.

11. Step 11

    Let the butter melt over medium heat, then add minced garlic, cooking it until it becomes fragrant—this should take about 30 seconds.

12. Step 12

    Add in the fresh thyme sprigs and lemon zest, stirring frequently for another 30 seconds to release those delightful aromas.

13. Step 13

    Now it’s time to add a splash of white wine and a squeeze of lemon juice.

14. Step 14

    Cook and stir this mixture until it reduces by half, which should take around 3 minutes.

15. Step 15

    To thicken the sauce, whisk in some flour to create a roux, then gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking continuously until the sauce reaches a nice, thick consistency.

16. Step 16

    Stir in a handful of fresh spinach and let it cook for about a minute until it wilts beautifully.

17. Step 17

    Next, add half of the Gruyere cheese, stirring until it melts into the sauce, then add the rest of the cheese and stir until it’s fully melted and creamy.

18. Step 18

    If the sauce feels a bit too thick, don’t hesitate to add some of that reserved pasta cooking water until you achieve your desired consistency.

19. Step 19

    Now, it’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked gemelli pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat it in that luscious sauce.

20. Step 20

    Finally, return the chicken and mushrooms to the skillet, giving everything a good stir and adjusting the seasoning to your taste.

21. Step 21

    Serve this delightful dish immediately, and enjoy the wonderful flavors that come together in every bite!.