This Greek Lemon Chicken Pasta is a zesty and hearty meal featuring tender chicken and pasta, all coated in a bright lemon sauce. It’s a refreshing twist on a classic dish!
I love how quick this dish comes together! With just a few ingredients, I can enjoy a sunny flavor that brightens my day. Plus, it’s perfect for sharing or enjoying as leftovers! 🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I used spaghetti for this dish, but linguine or any other long pasta works too. If you need a gluten-free option, go for rice noodles or gluten-free pasta varieties.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great here for easy cooking. You can swap them for thighs, or use cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Olive Oil: This is the best choice for sautéing, but if you’re looking for a lighter option, avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor. You could also use butter for a richer taste.
Spinach: Baby spinach is super easy to work with, but chopped kale or arugula could be tasty alternatives. You could even use frozen spinach if you’re in a pinch—just make sure to thaw it first!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice flavor boost. If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese to get a similar taste.
How Do I Get My Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but it can be simple with a few tips! Here’s how to ensure your chicken turns out tender and juicy:
- First, make sure your skillet is hot before adding chicken. This helps to get a nice sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet! Cook chicken in batches if necessary to avoid steaming.
- Season well with salt, pepper, and oregano before cooking to enhance flavor.
- Cook until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through—about 5-7 minutes. Use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (75°C).
- Let it rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy.
Following these steps will help you achieve perfectly cooked chicken every time!
How to Make Greek Lemon Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine pasta
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup baby spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 lemon, zest and juice
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnishing:
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Time Needed:
This dish takes about 25 minutes total: 10 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and tasty recipe perfect for any busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the sliced chicken strips with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic until it becomes fragrant, which should take about 1 minute. Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook until they soften, about 2 minutes. Then, stir in the baby spinach leaves and cook until they are wilted.
4. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, followed by the drained pasta. Sprinkle the lemon zest over the mixture, then squeeze the lemon juice in as well. Toss everything together well to combine the flavors.
5. Finish with Parmesan:
Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta, gently tossing to mix. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Now your dish is ready to serve!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate your Greek Lemon Chicken Pasta hot, garnished with extra lemon slices and fresh parsley if you like. Enjoy this vibrant and flavorful meal!
Feel free to add your own twist or extra veggies to make it your own! Enjoy your cooking! 🌟
Can I Use Other Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier option or even leftover rotisserie chicken for quicker preparation. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly if you’re using pre-cooked chicken.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor without the dairy! You can also use a dairy-free cheese product if preferred. Just ensure to adjust the amount based on taste.
How to Store Leftover Greek Lemon Chicken Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it saucy and prevent drying out.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! This dish is versatile—feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli. Just sauté them along with the tomatoes and spinach for a delicious veggie-packed meal!
