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In the fast-paced world we live in, the popularity of one-pot meals has skyrocketed, offering a solution for people looking to enjoy delicious home-cooked dishes without the hassle of extensive cleanup. One-pot meals not only save time but also allow for the harmonious blending of flavors, resulting in dishes that are both comforting and satisfying. Among the various one-pot recipes, the Zesty One-Pot Lemon Chicken Pasta stands out as a quick and flavorful option that is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

One-Pot Lemon Chicken Pasta

Discover the joy of convenient cooking with this Zesty One-Pot Lemon Chicken Pasta recipe. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a delicious meal featuring tender chicken thighs, al dente pasta, fresh spinach, and juicy cherry tomatoes all enhanced by vibrant lemon flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pot dish saves time on cleanup while delivering a comforting and satisfying dining experience. It's a delightful recipe sure to impress family and friends!

Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

8 oz (225g) uncooked spaghetti or linguine

4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

Zest and juice of 2 lemons

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

2 cups baby spinach

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Sauté Chicken: In a large pot or high-sided skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

    Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another minute until fragrant.

      Add Pasta and Liquids: Pour in the uncooked spaghetti and chicken broth. Add lemon zest and juice. Stir to combine and ensure the pasta is submerged in the broth.

        Combine Chicken: Return the browned chicken to the pot and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for about 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente and the liquid has mostly absorbed.

          Incorporate Veggies & Cheese: Stir in halved cherry tomatoes and baby spinach. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted. Finally, add the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and well combined. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

            Serve: Plate the pasta, garnishing each serving with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy your zesty one-pot meal!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings