35+ Hearty Chicken Pasta Lunch Recipes for Busy Weekdays

When it comes to lunch, chicken pasta is a tried-and-true favorite that offers both comfort and variety.

Whether you’re looking for a rich and creamy pasta, a light and fresh dish, or something with a bit of spice, chicken pasta has endless possibilities.

The versatility of chicken paired with the wide array of pasta options makes this dish perfect for any occasion, from a quick weekday meal to a more elaborate weekend feast.

In this blog post, we’ve curated over 35 chicken pasta lunch recipes that will inspire your next meal.

From hearty bakes to light salads, you’ll find something for every taste and craving.

Let’s dive into these delicious, easy-to-make recipes that will surely become your new lunchtime staples.

35+ Hearty Chicken Pasta Lunch Recipes for Busy Weekdays

Chicken pasta is a versatile and satisfying lunch choice, offering a wide variety of flavors and textures.

Whether you crave creamy, cheesy dishes, something light with fresh vegetables, or a spiced-up pasta with bold flavors, there’s no shortage of options.

With over 35 recipes in this collection, you’ll never run out of exciting ideas to enjoy chicken pasta at lunch.

These dishes are easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for any lunch occasion.

So next time you’re in need of a delicious midday meal, grab some chicken and pasta, and let your creativity flow in the kitchen.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a comforting dish that combines juicy, seasoned chicken with a rich, velvety Parmesan sauce. This lunch is ideal for those who crave a creamy pasta dish with a hint of garlic that complements the tender chicken and al dente pasta. This meal is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a midday boost of energy.

Ingredients:

• 2 large chicken breasts, diced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 pound fettuccine or pasta of choice
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil a pot of salted water and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sear the Chicken: Season diced chicken with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook chicken pieces until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes). Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
4. Add Parmesan & Seasoning: Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Allow it to simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
5. Combine Pasta and Chicken: Add cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet, tossing until everything is well coated with the sauce.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta offers a luxurious yet simple lunch option that’s bound to please. Each bite combines creamy, garlicky flavors with perfectly cooked chicken and pasta, making it a satisfying choice for an energizing midday meal.

Spicy Cajun Chicken Penne

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, Spicy Cajun Chicken Penne delivers a bold, spicy flavor balanced by creamy tomato sauce. The Cajun seasoning infuses the dish with vibrant spices, while the juicy chicken and penne pasta come together to make a comforting, zesty lunch option that awakens the taste buds.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, sliced into strips
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 pound penne pasta
• Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare Pasta: Boil a pot of salted water, cook the penne until al dente, and set aside.
2. Season and Cook Chicken: Season chicken strips with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook the chicken over medium heat until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the heavy cream and crushed tomatoes, stirring to blend. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Add Cheese and Spice: Stir in Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened. Adjust seasoning with additional Cajun spice if more heat is desired.
5. Combine: Add the cooked penne and chicken back to the skillet, tossing everything together until well coated in the sauce.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and enjoy warm.

Spicy Cajun Chicken Penne is a lively, flavor-packed lunch option that provides just the right amount of spice. The creaminess of the sauce tempers the heat, creating a balanced meal that’s perfect for a flavorful midday pick-me-up.

Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad

This refreshing Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad is a lighter yet flavorful option, perfect for a quick lunch or meal prep. Tender chicken is paired with fresh cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and pasta, all tossed in a vibrant pesto sauce. This dish is simple, fresh, and a great way to enjoy pasta without a heavy sauce.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, grilled and sliced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 pound bow-tie pasta or rotini
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved
• 1/2 cup prepared basil pesto
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook Pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente, drain, and let cool.
2. Prepare Chicken: Season chicken with salt and pepper and grill or pan-fry until cooked through. Slice into strips.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss the pasta with pesto sauce until evenly coated. Add in cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and sliced chicken.
4. Toss and Serve: Drizzle with olive oil, toss gently, and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad is a versatile and refreshing lunch that combines protein-rich chicken with pasta and a zesty pesto sauce. The flavors are light yet satisfying, making it an ideal choice for a healthy, balanced meal that’s easy to take on the go.

Lemon Herb Chicken Linguine

Lemon Herb Chicken Linguine is a refreshing, zesty pasta dish that combines tender chicken with the bright flavors of lemon and fresh herbs. This dish is perfect for a light, flavorful lunch that won’t weigh you down. With just a hint of garlic and Parmesan, each bite is bursting with flavor while staying balanced and refreshing.

Ingredients:

• 2 large chicken breasts, sliced thin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, thyme, oregano)
• 1 pound linguine or pasta of choice
• Fresh parsley and basil, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water and cook linguine until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken: Season chicken slices with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add chicken broth, cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan and Italian herbs, whisking until smooth and creamy.
4. Combine: Return chicken and cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing to coat everything with the sauce.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and basil. Serve hot.

Lemon Herb Chicken Linguine is the perfect lunch for days when you want something light yet satisfying. The citrusy lemon zest combined with savory herbs and creamy Parmesan creates a balanced, refreshing meal that’s great for a flavorful boost in the afternoon.

Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Chicken Pasta

This Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Chicken Pasta is a deliciously savory, nutrient-packed option that brings the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach together. The juicy chicken and creamy sauce balance out the tanginess, creating a vibrant and satisfying pasta lunch that’s both nutritious and delicious.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, diced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 pound penne or pasta of choice
• Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil a pot of salted water, cook pasta until al dente, drain, and set aside.
2. Sauté Chicken: Season chicken with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and cook chicken until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken from the pan.
3. Make the Sauce: Add heavy cream and chicken broth to the skillet, stirring well. Add sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese, letting the sauce simmer until slightly thickened.
4. Add Spinach and Chicken: Add spinach leaves and cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring until the spinach wilts and everything is coated in sauce.
5. Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until evenly coated.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves and enjoy warm.

Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Chicken Pasta is a lunch that combines robust, earthy flavors with a creamy sauce. The richness of the sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach makes this dish filling, nutritious, and perfect for an energizing midday meal.

Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli Penne

Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli Penne is a creamy, classic pasta dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich Alfredo sauce. This hearty lunch option provides both protein and vegetables in one meal, making it a balanced and delicious choice. It’s perfect for days when you want a satisfying, comforting lunch.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, cubed
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 pound penne pasta
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli: Boil a pot of salted water. Add penne and cook until al dente. Add broccoli florets for the last 3 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook Chicken: Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, cooking the chicken until golden and cooked through. Set aside.
3. Prepare Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, add chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
4. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken to the skillet, tossing until everything is evenly coated with the Alfredo sauce.
5. Serve: Top with freshly ground black pepper and garnish with parsley.

Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli Penne is a creamy, classic pasta dish that brings comfort and balance. The combination of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and rich Alfredo sauce provides a hearty, filling lunch option that’s both nourishing and flavorful.

Chicken Pesto Alfredo Pasta

Chicken Pesto Alfredo Pasta is a rich, flavorful dish that combines the creamy goodness of Alfredo sauce with the fresh, herby flavor of basil pesto. This delicious combination adds depth to every bite, making it a perfect lunch for anyone looking for a creamy pasta with a twist.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, sliced thin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup basil pesto
• 1 pound fusilli or pasta of choice
• Fresh basil and grated Parmesan, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken: Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, cook the chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth and creamy. Add pesto and stir until well combined.
4. Combine Pasta and Chicken: Add cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet, tossing until everything is well coated with the sauce.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Serve hot.

Chicken Pesto Alfredo Pasta is a creamy, savory delight with the perfect blend of Alfredo and pesto flavors. It’s a satisfying lunch that brings together the best of both worlds—rich, cheesy Alfredo with the bright, fresh taste of basil pesto.

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is a fun, spicy twist on classic mac and cheese. The tangy Buffalo sauce and juicy chicken add a delicious kick, while the creamy cheese sauce balances the flavors for an unforgettable pasta lunch. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a little spice in their meals.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, diced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup Buffalo sauce
• 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 pound elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
• Chopped green onions, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water, cook macaroni until al dente, drain, and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken: Season diced chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook chicken until golden brown. Add Buffalo sauce and toss to coat.
3. Prepare Cheese Sauce: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add milk and cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
4. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta and Buffalo-coated chicken to the cheese sauce, stirring until well combined.
5. Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions. Serve hot.

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is a fun and flavorful lunch option that brings a touch of spice to your day. With creamy cheddar and tangy Buffalo sauce, it’s a unique twist on classic mac and cheese that’s sure to impress anyone craving a bolder flavor.

Chicken and Mushroom Marsala Pasta

Chicken and Mushroom Marsala Pasta is a savory, Italian-inspired dish that brings the rich, earthy flavors of mushrooms and Marsala wine to your plate. Paired with tender chicken and al dente pasta, this recipe is perfect for a sophisticated yet easy-to-make lunch.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, sliced thin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms (cremini or white button)
• 1/2 cup Marsala wine
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 pound penne or pasta of choice
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water and cook penne until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken and Mushrooms: Season chicken with salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook the chicken until golden. Add mushrooms and cook until softened.
3. Add Marsala and Cream: Pour Marsala wine into the skillet, letting it simmer for a few minutes. Then add heavy cream and Parmesan, stirring until the sauce is creamy and slightly thickened.
4. Combine Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Chicken and Mushroom Marsala Pasta is a rich and earthy lunch option that brings Italian-inspired flavors to your table. The savory mushrooms, creamy Marsala sauce, and tender chicken make this dish a sophisticated choice that’s both comforting and satisfying.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti is a rich and savory pasta dish that combines the bold flavor of garlic with the creaminess of Parmesan. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a comforting and hearty meal. With a sprinkle of fresh herbs, the chicken adds protein while the garlic butter sauce elevates the flavors, creating a well-rounded pasta lunch.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, sliced thin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 pound spaghetti
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water, cook spaghetti until al dente, drain, and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken: Season chicken slices with salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook the chicken until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer until slightly thickened.
4. Add Cheese and Combine: Stir in Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes creamy. Return the chicken to the skillet and mix well.
5. Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the garlic Parmesan sauce.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti is a flavorful, savory pasta dish that offers a perfect balance of rich cheese and aromatic garlic. The creamy sauce, combined with tender chicken, creates a satisfying and comforting lunch that’s simple to prepare but full of delicious flavors.

Chicken Piccata Pasta

Chicken Piccata Pasta is a zesty and tangy pasta dish that brings the bright, citrusy flavors of lemon and capers together with tender chicken. The tangy lemon sauce, paired with the briny capers, adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta. This dish is perfect for a lunch that feels both light and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, pounded thin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons capers
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 pound spaghetti or pasta of choice

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then lightly dredge in flour. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook chicken until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove chicken from the skillet.
3. Make the Piccata Sauce: In the same skillet, add chicken broth, lemon juice, and capers, scraping up any brown bits left in the pan. Let the sauce simmer for a couple of minutes until slightly reduced.
4. Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat everything in the lemon-caper sauce.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Chicken Piccata Pasta is a bright and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a light yet satisfying lunch. The tangy lemon sauce and capers bring a refreshing punch to the tender chicken and pasta, making this recipe an easy way to enjoy a deliciously different lunch.

Creamy Chicken Carbonara

Creamy Chicken Carbonara is a rich, indulgent pasta dish that combines crispy pancetta, creamy egg-based sauce, and tender chicken. This classic Italian dish gets a boost of protein with the addition of chicken, making it a perfect lunch when you crave something creamy and comforting. The flavors meld together perfectly for a decadent, savory meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, diced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 ounces pancetta, chopped
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 pound fettuccine or pasta of choice
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water and cook fettuccine until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken and Pancetta: Season chicken with salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook chicken until browned. Add pancetta and cook until crispy.
3. Make the Carbonara Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Set aside.
4. Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken and pancetta, tossing to combine. Remove from heat and quickly stir in the egg mixture, tossing to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. Be careful not to scramble the eggs.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Creamy Chicken Carbonara is a rich and satisfying pasta dish that combines crispy pancetta, creamy sauce, and tender chicken for a comforting lunch. It’s a perfect way to indulge in a flavorful, hearty meal without being overly heavy, making it ideal for a fulfilling midday bite.

Chicken Alfredo Tortellini Bake

Chicken Alfredo Tortellini Bake is a creamy, cheesy casserole that takes all the rich, comforting flavors of chicken Alfredo and combines them with tender cheese-filled tortellini for a hearty and filling lunch. Baked to golden perfection, this dish offers a satisfying mix of textures that will leave you craving more.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
• 1 pound cheese tortellini
• 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Tortellini: Boil salted water and cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook it until golden and cooked through. Shred the chicken with a fork and set aside.
4. Assemble the Bake: In a large bowl, mix the cooked tortellini, shredded chicken, and Alfredo sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
5. Add Cheese and Bake: Top the mixture with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch. Drizzle olive oil over the breadcrumbs. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Chicken Alfredo Tortellini Bake is the ultimate comfort food, combining the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce with the chewiness of tortellini and the heartiness of chicken. It’s a filling, satisfying dish that’s perfect for a warm and cozy lunch, offering layers of flavor and texture in every bite.

Chicken Primavera Pasta

Chicken Primavera Pasta is a light yet satisfying dish that pairs juicy chicken with an assortment of colorful vegetables, all tossed in a garlic-olive oil sauce. This recipe brings the freshness of spring vegetables to your pasta for a healthy and delicious lunch option that’s full of flavor and nutrients.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, sliced into strips
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
• 1 cup zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
• 1 pound penne or pasta of choice
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water and cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add the bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, cooking for 5-7 minutes until softened.
4. Prepare the Sauce: Add chicken broth to the vegetables, stirring to combine. Return the chicken to the skillet, then toss in the cooked pasta, ensuring everything is well coated.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan. Serve hot.

Chicken Primavera Pasta is a fresh, light, and vibrant dish that’s perfect for a healthy lunch. The variety of vegetables adds a refreshing crunch and color to the tender chicken and pasta, while the garlic-olive oil sauce ties everything together with a rich, savory flavor.

Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta with Spinach

Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta with Spinach is a bright, flavorful dish that combines the zest of lemon with the earthy flavor of spinach and the richness of garlic. Perfect for a light lunch, this pasta brings together a balance of fresh and savory flavors that will energize your day.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 pound spaghetti or pasta of choice

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken with salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook the chicken until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic and Spinach: In the same skillet, add garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the spinach and cook until wilted.
4. Make the Sauce: Add chicken broth and lemon juice to the skillet, letting the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
5. Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat everything in the lemony, garlicky sauce.
6. Serve: Garnish with additional Parmesan and serve hot.

Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta with Spinach is a wonderfully fresh and light option for a lunchtime meal. The zesty lemon and garlic provide bright, bold flavors, while the spinach adds an earthy element that complements the rich sauce. This dish is both satisfying and energizing, perfect for a midday pick-me-up.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!