Lemon Rosemary Chicken Pasta with Fresh Asparagus and Spinach
A vibrant and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, zesty lemon, and aromatic rosemary with fresh asparagus and spinach.
Prep Time15 minutesmins
Cook Time30 minutesmins
Total Time45 minutesmins
Course: Main
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Easy
Servings: 4servings
Equipment
Large Pot
Skillet
Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Ingredients
2piecesBoneless Skinless Chicken BreastsEach weighing about 6 ounces.
8ouncesPastaChoose your favorite type, such as penne or fettuccine.
1bunchFresh AsparagusTrimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces.
4cupsFresh SpinachWashed and roughly chopped.
3tablespoonsExtra Virgin Olive Oil
1largeLemonJuiced, yielding about 3 tablespoons.
3clovesGarlicMince for robust flavor.
2teaspoonsFresh RosemaryFinely chopped.
1teaspoonSaltTo taste.
½teaspoonBlack PepperTo taste.
½cupParmesan CheeseGrated, for serving.
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once warmed, season the chicken with salt, pepper, and half of the chopped rosemary. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and let rest before slicing.
3. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the chopped asparagus and sauté for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened. Then add the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until wilted.
5. Return the sliced chicken to the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Pour in the reserved pasta water and lemon juice, stirring gently to combine.
6. Sprinkle the remaining rosemary over the mixture and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Toss everything together until heated through.
7. Serve the pasta in bowls, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil. Garnish with lemon wedges and additional rosemary if desired.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.