Lemon Pepper Chicken Pasta

The first time I made Lemon Pepper Chicken Pasta, it was a hectic weeknight, and I needed something quick but satisfying. As I pulled the ingredients from my pantry, the zesty aroma of lemon and the savory scent of chicken filled my kitchen, lifting my spirits instantly. With a simple combination of flavors, this dish became a family favorite, proving that sometimes the simplest meals are the most comforting. Imagine tossing together perfectly cooked pasta, succulent chicken, and fresh spinach, all coated in a vibrant lemon pepper sauce. You’ll find that this dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also brings a piece of sunshine to your dinner table.

Main Ingredients for Lemon Pepper Chicken Pasta

The beauty of Lemon Pepper Chicken Pasta lies in its simple yet vibrant ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating a balanced and flavorful dish. The rotini serves as the hearty base, while the chicken adds protein and richness. Fresh herbs like basil and spinach not only brighten the dish but also pack in nutrients, making every bite wholesome.

• 1 pound rotini, cooked according to package directions (small shells, wheels, bowtie, penne, or small-shaped pasta may be substituted) – This pasta shape holds the sauce beautifully, ensuring a flavorful bite every time.
• 1.25 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces – Tender and juicy, this chicken is the star of the dish.
• 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided – Used for cooking the chicken and adding richness to the dish.
• 1 to 2 teaspoons lemon pepper, or to taste – This seasoning gives the dish its signature flavor profile.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste – Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
• 3 to 4 cloves garlic, finely minced or pressed – Adds depth and an aromatic quality to the dish.
• ¼ cup lemon juice – Brightens the dish and adds a zesty kick that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
• 6 ounces fresh baby spinach – A healthy addition that wilts beautifully in the dish.
• ½ cup fresh basil, minced, or to taste – Provides a lovely herbal note that complements the lemon and chicken.

Step by Step Guide for Lemon Pepper Chicken Pasta

Making Lemon Pepper Chicken Pasta is a breeze! Follow these simple steps to create a delicious meal that’s sure to impress. You’ll see how easy it is to bring fresh flavors together for a satisfying dish.

1. To a large pot, add water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the rotini and cook according to the package directions. After cooking, drain the pasta and return it to the pot. This is where all the magic begins, so make sure your pasta is perfectly al dente!
2. While the pasta cooks, take out a large skillet. Drizzle in 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium-high. Once hot, add the diced chicken and season it with lemon pepper and kosher salt. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently. You want the chicken to turn golden brown and be cooked through, so make sure to keep an eye on it!
3. When the chicken is nearly done, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for one minute, stirring constantly until fragrant. The smell of garlic wafting through your kitchen is simply irresistible!
4. Next, pour in the lemon juice and toss in half of the spinach. Stir everything together and cover the skillet with a lid for about 2 minutes. This helps the spinach wilt down, creating a lovely, vibrant green mix.
5. After about 2 minutes, add the remaining half of the spinach and stir it in. Cook until all the spinach is wilted down and nicely integrated with the chicken.
6. Now, it’s time to combine everything! Add the chicken and spinach mixture, along with all the cooking juices, to the pot with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until well combined. The pasta will soak up all those amazing flavors!
7. Finally, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and the minced basil. Give it one last good stir to mix everything together. The aroma at this stage is absolutely divine!
8. Serve your Lemon Pepper Chicken Pasta hot, and enjoy immediately. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but it will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days if you have leftovers.

Recipe Notes about Lemon Pepper Chicken Pasta

When preparing Lemon Pepper Chicken Pasta, keep these handy tips in mind to ensure the best results every time.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
• Freezing: You can freeze this dish, but the texture of the pasta may change. Freeze in individual portions for easier reheating.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Add extra flavor: Consider stirring in some zest from the lemon before serving for an extra citrus kick.
• Customization: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to make it even more nutritious.

Serve This Lemon Pepper Chicken Pasta With

When it comes to serving Lemon Pepper Chicken Pasta, the possibilities are endless. Here are some fantastic ideas to complement your meal:

• A fresh garden salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
• Garlic bread: For a classic pairing, serve with warm garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce.
• Wine: A chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, pairs nicely with the citrus notes of the dish.
• Seasonal vegetables: Roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables add a lovely color and nutrition to your plate.
• Family dinners: This dish is perfect for any casual family dinner or even a small gathering with friends.
• Lunch leftovers: Enjoy the leftovers for a quick and satisfying lunch the next day!

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Lemon Pepper Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together fresh flavors in a quick and easy recipe. It’s ideal for busy weeknights and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I encourage you to try making it for your next meal; you won’t be disappointed! Enjoy the burst of flavors and the joy it brings to your dining table.

Lemon Pepper Chicken Pasta

The ultimate comfort food, Lemon Pepper Chicken Pasta combines zesty lemon flavors with tender chicken and fresh spinach for a dish that's both easy and satisfying. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 490 kcal

Equipment

• Large Pot
• Large Skillet

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound Rotini cooked according to package directions (small shells, wheels, bowtie, penne, or small-shaped pasta may be substituted)
• 1.25 pound Boneless skinless chicken breasts diced into bite-sized pieces
• 4 tablespoons Olive oil divided
• 1 to 2 teaspoons Lemon pepper or to taste
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt or to taste
• 3 to 4 cloves Garlic finely minced or pressed
• ¼ cup Lemon juice
• 6 ounces Fresh baby spinach
• ½ cup Fresh basil minced, or to taste

Instructions

 

• To a large pot, add water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the rotini and cook according to the package directions. After cooking, drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
• While the pasta cooks, take out a large skillet. Drizzle in 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium-high. Once hot, add the diced chicken and season it with lemon pepper and kosher salt. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
• When the chicken is nearly done, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for one minute, stirring constantly until fragrant.
• Next, pour in the lemon juice and toss in half of the spinach. Stir everything together and cover the skillet with a lid for about 2 minutes.
• After about 2 minutes, add the remaining half of the spinach and stir it in. Cook until all the spinach is wilted down.
• Now, it’s time to combine everything! Add the chicken and spinach mixture, along with all the cooking juices, to the pot with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until well combined.
• Finally, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and the minced basil. Give it one last good stir to mix everything together.
• Serve your Lemon Pepper Chicken Pasta hot, and enjoy immediately. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but it will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days if you have leftovers.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Tip 2: You can freeze this dish, but the texture of the pasta may change.
• Tip 3: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread.
• Tip 4: Consider stirring in some zest from the lemon before serving for an extra citrus kick.
• Tip 5: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to make it even more nutritious.

Keyword comfort food, Easy Pasta Recipes, Lemon Chicken Pasta, Quick Dinner Ideas

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Meet Olivia Bennett

For me, cooking is about connection. Whether I’m making a quick breakfast or a three course dinner, I focus on the feeling the food gives you. I love the entire process of food blogging, from chopping the first onion to adjusting the lighting for the final photo. I’m the one who reminds the team to slow down and really taste the food as we go, ensuring every recipe has that “home-cooked” warmth.