Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken Spaghetti
Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken Spaghetti is a bright, flavorful, and comforting dish that perfectly balances zesty citrus with savory herbs and tender chicken. This recipe combines simple ingredients like garlic, lemon, and fresh spinach with juicy chicken breasts and perfectly cooked spaghetti for a meal that’s both satisfying and fresh. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or serving guests, this dish will impress with its vibrant flavors and easy preparation. The combination of lemon zest and juice with garlic and herbs creates a delicious sauce that lightly coats the pasta, while cherry tomatoes add a pop of color and sweetness.
The Upside of Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken Spaghetti
This Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken Spaghetti is a go-to recipe for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make with pantry staples and fresh ingredients. The chicken breasts cook quickly, and the pasta is ready in under 15 minutes. Plus, the lemon and herbs bring a refreshing twist to typical chicken pasta dishes, making it feel light yet hearty. It’s a balanced meal that includes protein, veggies, and carbs all in one bowl. This recipe is also customizable, so you can add your favorite vegetables or swap herbs to suit your taste. Best of all, it’s a crowd-pleaser that works for family dinners, meal prep, or even casual entertaining.
What We’re Using
- 12 ounces spaghetti – The perfect pasta to soak up the lemon garlic herb sauce.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing the chicken and garlic, adding richness without overpowering flavors.
- 4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless – Tender and juicy, the main protein source.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – Adds a fragrant base and depth to the sauce.
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced – Brings brightness and acidity to balance the savory elements.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Earthy herb that pairs beautifully with lemon and garlic.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil – Adds a sweet, aromatic note.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – Adds color, sweetness, and a juicy burst in every bite.
- 2 cups fresh spinach – For a nutritious, leafy green component that wilts beautifully into the pasta.
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional) – For a salty, creamy finish.
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional) – Adds a fresh, herbal brightness on top.
Prep & Cook Tools
- Large pot – To boil the spaghetti until al dente.
- Large skillet or sauté pan – For cooking the chicken and making the lemon garlic herb sauce.
- Knife and cutting board – For prepping chicken, garlic, tomatoes, and parsley.
- Zester or grater – To zest the lemon.
- Citrus juicer (optional) – Makes squeezing lemon juice easier and less messy.
- Colander – To drain the cooked spaghetti.
- Tongs or pasta fork – For tossing and serving the pasta.
From Start to Finish: Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken Spaghetti
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Add the 12 ounces of spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). Once cooked, drain the pasta but reserve about ½ cup of pasta water. Set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the 4 chicken breasts with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken is golden brown on the outside. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips or bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and sauté for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Add the lemon zest and lemon juice to the skillet along with the fresh spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts and everything is combined. If the sauce seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Chicken
Return the sliced chicken to the skillet and add the drained spaghetti. Toss everything together gently to coat the pasta with the lemon garlic herb sauce and distribute the chicken, spinach, and tomatoes evenly.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken Spaghetti hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. For an extra touch, pair it with Easy Garlic Bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.
Swap Guide
- Spaghetti: Use fettuccine, linguine, or gluten-free pasta for variation.
- Chicken breasts: Substitute chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful option.
- Spinach: Kale or arugula can be used for a different green with more texture or peppery notes.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley can replace dried oregano and basil.
- Lemon juice: Lime juice can be swapped in for a slightly different citrus flavor.
- Cheese: Nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan can be used for a dairy-free option.
Flavor Logic
The magic of Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken Spaghetti lies in the harmonious blend of bright, herbal, and savory ingredients:
- Lemon zest and juice provide acidity that balances the richness of olive oil and chicken.
- Garlic adds pungent depth and warmth, elevating the entire dish.
- Dried oregano and basil bring an earthy, aromatic quality reminiscent of Mediterranean cooking.
- Cherry tomatoes introduce a slight sweetness and juicy texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken and silky spaghetti.
- Fresh spinach adds a mild bitterness and nutritious element that brightens the plate.
This combination creates a dish that is well-rounded, satisfying, and full of fresh flavor with every bite.
Freezer-Friendly Notes
This dish can be made ahead and frozen for convenience. To freeze, prepare the Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken Spaghetti up to step 5, then let it cool completely. Transfer to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture and flavor.
Helpful Q&A
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs bring extra juiciness and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through compared to breasts.
How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Cook the chicken over medium-high heat until golden and no longer pink inside, but avoid overcooking. Letting it rest after cooking helps retain juices. You can also slice it before adding back to the skillet so it absorbs the sauce better.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and increase the vegetables, such as adding mushrooms or extra spinach. You could also add a protein substitute like tofu or chickpeas to keep it hearty.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water, broth, or olive oil to keep the pasta from drying out. Stir frequently until heated through. This method preserves the texture and flavor better than microwaving.
More from the Kitchen
- Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta – A luscious and tangy pasta dish with creamy sauce and chicken.
- Honey Garlic Chicken – Sweet and savory glazed chicken that’s quick and delicious.
- Easy Garlic Bread – The perfect easy side to accompany any pasta meal.
Ready to Cook?
Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to bring this Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken Spaghetti to life in your kitchen. With its bright lemony flavor, fragrant garlic, and tender chicken tossed with fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes, this dish is bound to become a favorite. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for that extra touch of deliciousness. Pair it with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad, and enjoy a meal that’s as nourishing as it is flavorful.
Dive in and savor every bite of this vibrant, easy-to-make pasta dish tonight!
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Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken Spaghetti
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Add the 12 ounces of spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of pasta water, and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the 4 chicken breasts with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove and let rest before slicing.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add halved cherry tomatoes and sauté for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
- Add lemon zest and juice to the skillet along with fresh spinach. Stir until spinach wilts. Add reserved pasta water if sauce seems dry.
- Return sliced chicken to the skillet, add drained spaghetti, and toss gently to coat pasta with sauce and evenly combine chicken, spinach, and tomatoes.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Pair with garlic bread for an extra touch.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier, more flavorful option.
- Substitute spinach with kale or arugula for a different texture and flavor.
- Prepare up to step 5 and freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to maintain texture.
- Swap lemon juice with lime juice for a citrus variation.
