Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken Spaghetti

Name: Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken Spaghetti
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz spaghetti; 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed; 3 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice; 1 tbsp lemon zest; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

🕒 Prep: 10 min

🔥 Cook: 20 min

🍽 Serves: 4

★★★★★

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Welcome to your new favorite weeknight dinner: Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken Spaghetti! This dish combines the bright freshness of lemon and herbs with tender chicken and perfectly cooked spaghetti. It's a simple, delightful meal that feels like a special occasion on any day.

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Ingredients for Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken Spaghetti

The star of this dish is the chicken breasts, which are cubed and cooked until golden for a hearty protein base. Olive oil helps to brown the chicken and adds a rich flavor. Onion and garlic build a savory foundation, while cherry tomatoes add a touch of sweetness and color. The chicken broth and lemon juice create a light yet flavorful sauce, with lemon zest amplifying the citrusy notes. Fresh parsley and basil add a burst of herby freshness. Of course, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top ties everything together with its nutty, salty finish.

Tips & Tricks

For a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese before tossing in the pasta.
If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic and onions.
To save time, prep all your ingredients before you start cooking. This makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Use a microplane to zest the lemon; it’s quick and ensures you don’t get any bitter pith.
Swap out chicken for shrimp or tofu for a twist on the protein.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad topped with a light vinaigrette. A side of crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. For a touch of elegance, serve with a chilled glass of white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, to complement the lemony flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?: Yes, you can substitute dried herbs, but use about one-third of the amount as dried herbs are more concentrated.
How do I store leftovers?: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I freeze this dish?: It's best to freeze the sauce separately and cook fresh pasta when you're ready to serve.

Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken Spaghetti Recipe Walkthrough

Start by cooking your spaghetti according to the package instructions until it's al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for later. Now, grab a large skillet and heat up the olive oil over medium-high heat. Toss in the chicken cubes and cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they're beautifully golden brown on all sides.

Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté this mixture until the onions turn translucent, which should take around 2-3 minutes. Stir in the cherry tomatoes, then pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and add the lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let this mixture simmer for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Now it's time to bring everything together. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing it gently to ensure every strand is coated with the flavorful sauce. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the fresh parsley and basil. These herbs should be added at the end to keep their flavors bright and fresh. Serve immediately, with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights.
Uses fresh, vibrant ingredients that brighten up your meal.
Balanced flavors make it a hit with both kids and adults.
Minimal cleanup with just one skillet and a pot for pasta.
Easily adaptable for different diets or preferences.

Ingredients

12 oz spaghetti

1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed

3 tbsp olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup chicken broth

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

1 tbsp lemon zest

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken cubes and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing until onions are translucent.

4. Stir in cherry tomatoes, chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper, allowing the mixture to simmer for 3-4 minutes.

5. Add cooked spaghetti and toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is coated evenly with the sauce.