Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, oregano, and lemon zest. These seasonings will help flavor the chicken, making it aromatic and savory.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and golden brown on the outside. If you’re using thicker chicken breasts, you may need to cook them for an extra 2-3 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
3. Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the chicken moist.
4. Slice the Chicken: Once rested, slice the chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces, depending on your preference. Set the chicken aside while you make the pasta and sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil the Pasta: While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
2. Drain the Pasta: Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water and then drain the pasta. Set it aside for later.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Sauce

1. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet used to cook the chicken, add the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned.
2. Add Lemon Juice and Zest: Add the juice and zest of 2 lemons to the skillet. Stir to combine with the garlic, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3. Pour in Chicken Broth: Next, pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any brown bits from the chicken. These bits add flavor to the sauce.
4. Add Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
5. Season the Sauce: Add the crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Add Parmesan Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, creating a creamy, smooth texture.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Chicken

1. Add the Pasta: Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss the pasta in the sauce to ensure it is evenly coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
2. Add the Chicken: Add the sliced chicken to the skillet, tossing everything together until well combined and heated through.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Plate the Dish: Divide the pasta and chicken among four plates, making sure to spoon plenty of the creamy lemon sauce over the top.
2. Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese over the top for added flavor and color.
3. Enjoy: Serve your Lemon Chicken Pasta immediately, and enjoy the bright, zesty flavors that make this dish so special.