Looking for a bright, tasty, and effortless meal that fits any occasion? This Lemon Herb Chicken Spaghetti recipe is a perfect choice for those who love cooking, recipes, bon appétit moments that bring joy to the table. Whether served hot or cold, this dish combines juicy lemon-infused chicken with a vibrant garlicky tomato and basil spaghetti that’s ready in just about 35 minutes.
Why This Recipe is a Winner
This dish is a breeze to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead. It’s budget-friendly, wholesome, and packed with fresh flavors that come together beautifully. Plus, the versatility of serving it hot or cold means it adapts perfectly to your mood or the weather.
Step 1: Cooking the Spaghetti
Start with one pound of spaghetti cooked according to the package directions until al dente. A large pot of salted water ensures the pasta is flavorful and perfectly textured. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti and set it aside to combine with the flavorful sauce later.
Step 2: Preparing the Tomato-Basil Mixture
While the spaghetti cooks, the fresh tomato and basil mixture steals the show. Use two large beefsteak tomatoes, diced into small pieces so they disperse nicely throughout the pasta.
Next, chop half a cup of fresh basil leaves using the chiffonade technique — stack the leaves, roll them tightly, and slice into thin ribbons. This adds a beautiful texture and aroma to the dish.
Add two to three teaspoons of freshly minced garlic for a punch of flavor. Then, pour in a quarter cup of extra virgin olive oil to marinate the mixture. Season with one teaspoon of salt and half a teaspoon of black pepper, stirring gently. Let it sit so the flavors meld and deepen, creating a garlicky, herby base that coats the pasta beautifully.
Step 3: Seasoning and Cooking the Chicken
For the protein, two pounds of chicken tenders work perfectly since they cook quickly and stay tender. Season them with a blend of:
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon salt
After seasoning, toss the chicken tenders to coat evenly. If the tenders have the little tendon attached, snip it off with kitchen scissors for a better eating experience.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add one tablespoon of olive oil. Sear the chicken for two to three minutes per side until nicely browned. While cooking, squeeze a quarter cup of fresh lemon juice over the chicken and flip to ensure even browning and a burst of citrus flavor.
Move the tenders around the pan to avoid hot spots and ensure they cook evenly. Keep an eye on the cooking time, as thickness varies. Use a meat thermometer or cut into a piece to confirm it’s cooked through.
Step 4: Combining and Serving
Once the spaghetti is drained, add it directly to the bowl with the tomato and basil mixture. Toss well so every strand is coated with the delicious garlic and herb-infused olive oil.
Serve the chicken either on top of the pasta or on the side, allowing the lemony pan juices to drizzle over the dish for an extra layer of flavor. This meal is aromatic, fresh, and ready to enjoy.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This lemon herb chicken spaghetti is just as delightful cold, making it perfect for picnics, lunches, or quick dinners. The fresh ingredients and simple preparation make it a go-to recipe for anyone who loves cooking, recipes, bon appétit moments that are easy, tasty, and satisfying.
Try this recipe for a family dinner or meal prep—it’s guaranteed to please and impress.
For a printable version and more delicious recipes, visit The Stay At Home Chef.
Lemon Herb Chicken Spaghetti: A Fresh and Flavorful Recipe for Every Season. There are any Lemon Herb Chicken Spaghetti: A Fresh and Flavorful Recipe for Every Season in here.
