Name: Lemon Rosemary Pasta with Chicken, Asparagus & Spinach Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz. pasta; 3 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp fresh rosemary; 2 chicken breasts; 1 lb fresh asparagus; 3 cloves garlic; 1 tsp lemon zest; 1 tsp lemon juice; ⅔ cup Greek yogurt; ⅓ cup parmesan cheese; 2 cups fresh baby spinach; extra shredded Parmesan

This delightful dish combines the zesty flavors of lemon and rosemary with the comforting satisfaction of pasta. Perfect for both busy weeknights and relaxed weekends, it brings together tender chicken, crisp asparagus, and fresh spinach in a creamy, tangy sauce. Each bite is a burst of flavor and nourishment.

Photos of Lemon Rosemary Pasta with Chicken, Asparagus & Spinach Recipe

While most of the ingredients for this recipe are common pantry staples, a few items might not be in everyone's kitchen. Fresh rosemary adds an aromatic touch that dried just can't match. Greek yogurt gives the sauce a creamy yet tangy texture, and parmesan cheese lends a sharp, savory depth. Make sure to grab these at the supermarket.

Ingredients For Lemon Rosemary Pasta With Chicken, Asparagus & Spinach

Pasta: The base of the dish, providing a comforting and filling element.

Olive oil: Used for cooking the chicken and vegetables, adding a rich flavor.

Fresh rosemary: Brings an aromatic, earthy flavor to the dish.

Chicken breasts: Provides lean protein and pairs well with the citrusy sauce.

Fresh asparagus: Adds a crisp texture and vibrant color.

Garlic: Infuses the dish with a pungent, savory depth.

Lemon zest: Adds a bright, citrusy flavor.

Lemon juice: Enhances the freshness and tanginess of the dish.

Greek yogurt: Creates a creamy, tangy sauce without the heaviness of cream.

Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, salty flavor to the sauce.

Fresh baby spinach: Provides a nutritious, leafy green element.

Extra shredded parmesan: For garnishing, adding extra flavor and a touch of elegance.

One reader, Geri Valdez says:

This lemon rosemary pasta with chicken, asparagus, and spinach is a delightful dish! The flavors blend perfectly, and the creamy sauce is divine. It's a fresh, healthy meal that's easy to make and absolutely delicious. Highly recommend for a quick, satisfying dinner!

Geri Valdez

Techniques Required for Making Lemon Rosemary Pasta

How to cook pasta: Boil pasta in generously salted water until al dente according to package instructions. How to cook chicken: Heat oil in a skillet, season chicken with salt and pepper, cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until fully cooked, then slice into thin strips. How to sauté vegetables: Heat oil in a skillet, add asparagus, garlic, lemon juice, zest, and rosemary, and sauté for 4-5 minutes until asparagus is cooked but still slightly crisp. How to make a creamy sauce: Remove skillet from heat, stir in Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, and baby spinach. How to combine pasta and sauce: Toss cooked pasta with the creamy vegetable mixture and chicken, adding reserved pasta water if needed to thin the sauce.

This rosemary pasta is a vibrant dish that has an assortment of flavors from the lemon, asparagus, spinach, yogurt, & cheese. It’s a light yet filling meal.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

12oz.pasta
3tbspolive oil
1tbspfresh rosemary,finely chopped
2chicken breasts,boneless, skinless, pounded to even thickness
1lbfresh asparagus,ends trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
3clovesgarlic,minced
1tsplemon zest
1tsplemon juice
⅔cupGreek yogurt,(1 carton), plain
⅓cupParmesan Cheese,grated
2cupsfresh baby spinach
extra shredded Parmesan,and/or chopped fresh parsley, optional garnish

Instructions

Cook pasta in generously salted water until al dente according to package instructions.
Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season both sides of the chicken with a pinch of salt and freshly-cracked black pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the juices run clear. Remove chicken and set aside. Wait a few minutes, then slice the chicken into thin strips.
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add asparagus, garlic, lemon juice and zest, and rosemary and saute for 4 to 5 minutes until the asparagus is cooked but still slightly crisp. Remove skillet from heat. Stir in Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, and baby spinach.
Once the pasta is finished cooking, drain the pasta but reserve ¼ cup pasta water. Toss together the pasta, creamy vegetable mixture and the chicken. Add some of the reserved pasta water if needed to thin the sauce.
Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and/or chopped fresh parsley.

Nutrition

Calories: 673.27kcal
Fat: 25.40g
Saturated Fat: 7.63g
Trans Fat: 0.09g
Monounsaturated Fat: 11.79g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.40g
Carbohydrates: 71.07g
Fiber: 5.38g
Sugar: 6.18g
Protein: 39.97g
Cholesterol: 70.49mg
Sodium: 259.79mg
Calcium: 244.59mg
Potassium: 663.49mg
Iron: 4.54mg
Vitamin A: 113.71µg
Vitamin C: 9.69mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Lemon Rosemary Pasta

To ensure your chicken breasts are perfectly cooked and juicy, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) before removing it from the skillet. This prevents overcooking and ensures the meat remains tender.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Pasta Dish

Prep ingredients ahead: Chop asparagus, mince garlic, and zest lemon in advance to streamline cooking.

Use pre-cooked chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked chicken breasts or rotisserie chicken.

Cook pasta first: Start boiling pasta while prepping other ingredients to multitask efficiently.

One-pan method: Cook chicken and vegetables in the same skillet to reduce cleanup time.

Ready-to-use spinach: Opt for pre-washed baby spinach to skip rinsing and drying.

Quick sauce: Mix greek yogurt and parmesan cheese in a bowl beforehand for a faster finish.

Substitute Ingredients For Lemon Rosemary Pasta with Chicken, Asparagus & Spinach Recipe

pasta - Substitute with zucchini noodles: For a low-carb option, zucchini noodles provide a similar texture and absorb flavors well.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar smoke point and a mild flavor that works well in pasta dishes.
fresh rosemary - Substitute with dried rosemary: Use half the amount of dried rosemary as it is more concentrated in flavor.
chicken breasts - Substitute with tofu: For a vegetarian option, tofu provides a good source of protein and absorbs the flavors of the dish.
fresh asparagus - Substitute with broccoli florets: Broccoli has a similar texture and can be cooked to the same tenderness as asparagus.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, sweeter flavor that complements the dish well.
lemon zest - Substitute with lime zest: Lime zest provides a similar citrusy brightness to the dish.
lemon juice - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar adds a similar acidity and tanginess.
greek yogurt - Substitute with sour cream: Sour cream offers a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano has a similar salty and nutty flavor profile.
fresh baby spinach - Substitute with kale: Kale provides a similar leafy green texture and holds up well when cooked.
extra shredded parmesan - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast offers a cheesy flavor and is a good option for those avoiding dairy.

Best Way to Present Lemon Rosemary Pasta

Use a large, white plate: The simplicity of a white plate allows the vibrant colors of the lemon rosemary pasta with chicken, asparagus, and spinach to stand out, creating a visually appealing presentation.
Create a base of pasta: Place a nest of pasta in the center of the plate, forming a base. Ensure the pasta is twirled neatly to give it a refined look.
Arrange the chicken slices: Fan out the thinly sliced chicken breasts over the pasta. This not only showcases the protein but also adds height and dimension to the dish.
Add the asparagus: Lay the asparagus spears diagonally across the pasta and chicken. This adds a pop of green and a contrasting texture.
Incorporate the spinach: Gently tuck the baby spinach leaves around the edges of the pasta nest. The residual heat will slightly wilt the spinach, adding a fresh element to the dish.
Drizzle the sauce: Spoon the creamy greek yogurt and parmesan sauce over the pasta, ensuring it lightly coats the chicken and asparagus. Be careful not to drown the dish in sauce.
Garnish with lemon zest and rosemary: Sprinkle a pinch of lemon zest and a few fresh rosemary leaves on top for a burst of color and aroma.
Finish with extra parmesan: Grate some extra parmesan cheese over the entire dish. This adds a final touch of flavor and elegance.
Add a touch of parsley: Garnish with a small sprig of fresh parsley for a hint of color and a touch of sophistication.
Serve immediately: Ensure the dish is served hot to maintain the integrity of the flavors and textures.

Essential Tools for Making This Pasta Recipe

Large skillet: For cooking the chicken and sautéing the asparagus, garlic, lemon juice, zest, and rosemary.
Pot: For boiling the pasta in generously salted water until al dente.
Tongs: Useful for flipping the chicken breasts while cooking.
Knife: For slicing the chicken into thin strips after it has been cooked.
Cutting board: A surface to slice the chicken and chop the asparagus, garlic, and rosemary.
Measuring spoons: To measure out the olive oil, rosemary, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
Measuring cups: To measure the Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese.
Garlic press: For mincing the garlic cloves.
Zester: To zest the lemon.
Colander: To drain the cooked pasta while reserving some pasta water.
Wooden spoon: For stirring the ingredients in the skillet.
Serving bowl: To toss together the pasta, creamy vegetable mixture, and chicken.
Grater: For grating extra Parmesan cheese for garnish.
Spatula: To help mix the Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, and baby spinach into the skillet.

Storing and Freezing Lemon Rosemary Pasta

Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to freeze the pasta, it's best to freeze the chicken, asparagus, and spinach separately from the pasta and sauce. This will help maintain the texture of the ingredients.
To freeze the chicken, place the cooked and sliced chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container. Squeeze out any excess air and seal tightly. Label the container with the date and contents.
For the asparagus and spinach, blanch them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain well and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Squeeze out any excess air and seal tightly. Label the container with the date and contents.
To freeze the pasta and sauce, cook the pasta until it's slightly undercooked (about 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions). Toss the pasta with the sauce and allow it to cool completely. Place the pasta and sauce in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label the container with the date and contents.
When you're ready to enjoy the frozen pasta, thaw the ingredients in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat the pasta and sauce in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water or chicken broth if needed to thin the sauce. Add the thawed chicken, asparagus, and spinach to the pasta and heat through.
Frozen pasta dishes can be stored for up to 2-3 months in the freezer. After that, the quality may start to deteriorate, and the texture of the pasta may become mushy upon reheating.

How To Reheat Leftover Lemon Rosemary Pasta

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover lemon rosemary pasta to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven and reheat for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is heated through and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of reheating to allow the top to crisp up slightly.
For a quicker option, reheat individual portions of the pasta in the microwave. Place a serving of the lemon rosemary pasta in a microwave-safe bowl and add a splash of water or chicken broth to help maintain moisture. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the pasta is heated through and the chicken is steaming.
If you have a bit more time, reheat the pasta on the stovetop. Place the leftover lemon rosemary pasta in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to the pan and stir gently to combine. Cover the pan and heat the pasta for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is heated through and the chicken is steaming. If the pasta seems dry, add a bit more liquid as needed.
For a crispy texture, try reheating the lemon rosemary pasta in an air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place a serving of the pasta in the air fryer basket and spray lightly with cooking oil. Air fry for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the pasta is heated through and the edges are slightly crispy.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safe to eat. If the pasta seems dry after reheating, try drizzling a bit of olive oil or adding a dollop of Greek yogurt to help restore moisture and creaminess.

Interesting Fact About Lemon Rosemary Pasta

A random fact about this recipe is that Greek yogurt adds a creamy texture to the sauce while keeping it lighter and healthier compared to traditional cream-based sauces.

Is Making This Pasta Dish at Home Cost-Effective?

This lemon rosemary pasta with chicken, asparagus & spinach recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like pasta, olive oil, chicken breasts, and asparagus are reasonably priced and widely available. The use of greek yogurt and parmesan cheese adds a touch of luxury without breaking the bank. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $20-$25 USD. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is This Pasta Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

This lemon rosemary pasta with chicken, asparagus, and spinach recipe is a relatively healthy dish with a good balance of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates. The recipe incorporates lean protein from chicken breasts, fiber-rich vegetables like asparagus and spinach, and whole grain pasta for complex carbohydrates. The use of Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream reduces the overall fat content while still providing a creamy texture. Additionally, the lemon juice and zest add a burst of vitamin C and antioxidants to the dish.

However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to make it even healthier:

Use whole wheat or legume-based pasta to increase the fiber content and nutritional value
Reduce the amount of olive oil used in cooking to lower the overall calorie and fat content
Increase the proportion of vegetables to pasta and chicken, ensuring a more nutrient-dense meal
Opt for low-fat or fat-free Greek yogurt to further reduce the fat content
Use fresh herbs like parsley or basil to add more flavor and nutrients without increasing calories

By incorporating these changes, the recipe can be transformed into an even more nutritious and well-rounded meal that still retains its delicious flavor profile. The key is to focus on nutrient-dense ingredients, lean proteins, and healthy cooking methods to create a satisfying and wholesome dish that supports overall health and well-being.

Editor's Opinion on This Lemon Rosemary Pasta Recipe

This lemon rosemary pasta with chicken, asparagus, and spinach is a delightful blend of fresh, vibrant flavors. The lemon zest and juice add a refreshing tang, while the rosemary provides an aromatic depth. The Greek yogurt and parmesan create a creamy, rich sauce that complements the tender chicken and crisp asparagus perfectly. The baby spinach adds a nutritious touch and a pop of color. Overall, it's a well-balanced, healthy dish that's both satisfying and elegant. A touch of extra parmesan and fresh parsley at the end elevates it to restaurant-quality.

Enhance Your Lemon Rosemary Pasta with Chicken, Asparagus & Spinach Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Imagine the earthy crunch of Brussels sprouts caramelized to perfection, drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. This side dish adds a delightful contrast to the creamy lemon rosemary pasta with its slightly sweet and savory notes.

Garlic Bread with Herb Butter: Picture a warm, crusty garlic bread slathered with a rich herb butter, infused with parsley, thyme, and a hint of rosemary. This side dish is perfect for soaking up every last bit of the luscious sauce from the lemon rosemary pasta.

Caprese Salad: Visualize a vibrant Caprese salad with juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil, all drizzled with a touch of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt. This refreshing side dish complements the rich flavors of the lemon rosemary pasta beautifully.

Butternut Squash Soup: Envision a silky butternut squash soup with a hint of nutmeg and a swirl of cream. This comforting side dish adds a warm, velvety texture that pairs wonderfully with the bright, zesty notes of the lemon rosemary pasta.

Mixed Berry Tart: Dream of a delectable mixed berry tart with a buttery crust and a medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. This sweet and tangy dessert is the perfect finale to a meal featuring the savory lemon rosemary pasta.

Similar Recipes to Lemon Rosemary Pasta

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta: Indulge in a rich and creamy pasta dish featuring succulent shrimp sautéed in a garlic butter sauce. Tossed with fresh spinach and a hint of lemon juice, this dish is a seafood lover's dream.

Chicken Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Experience the vibrant flavors of basil pesto combined with tender chicken and tangy sun-dried tomatoes. This pasta dish is a delightful blend of savory and fresh ingredients, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Pasta: Dive into a bowl of creamy pasta loaded with sautéed mushrooms and fresh spinach. The earthy flavors of the mushrooms pair beautifully with the creamy sauce, making it a comforting and satisfying meal.

Lemon Garlic Chicken with Broccoli: Savor the zesty and aromatic flavors of lemon and garlic in this delightful chicken dish. Paired with tender broccoli and served over a bed of pasta, it's a wholesome and delicious dinner option.

Asparagus and Pea Risotto: Enjoy the creamy texture of risotto combined with the fresh flavors of asparagus and peas. This dish is a perfect way to celebrate the vibrant produce of spring, offering a comforting and elegant meal.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Lemon Rosemary Pasta

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Start your meal with these delightful Stuffed Mushrooms. The earthy mushrooms are filled with a savory blend of breadcrumbs, garlic, and herbs, then baked to perfection. The cheese topping melts into a gooey, golden crust, making each bite a burst of flavor. These bite-sized treats are perfect for setting the stage for a memorable dining experience.

Bruschetta: Introduce your guests to the fresh and vibrant flavors of Bruschetta. Crispy baguette slices are topped with a medley of diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic, all drizzled with a touch of olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar. This classic Italian appetizer is not only visually appealing but also a delightful way to awaken the palate before the main course.

Desserts:

Lemon Tart: Indulge in a Lemon Tart that perfectly complements the flavors of your main course. This dessert features a buttery, flaky crust filled with a tangy and smooth lemon curd. The tartness of the lemon is balanced by a hint of sweetness, making each bite a refreshing end to your meal. Top it with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor.

Rosemary Shortbread Cookies: For a unique twist, try Rosemary Shortbread Cookies. These delicate cookies are infused with the subtle, aromatic flavor of fresh rosemary, echoing the herb used in your pasta dish. The buttery, crumbly texture of the shortbread pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. Serve them warm with a drizzle of honey or a light dusting of powdered sugar.

Why trust this Lemon Rosemary Pasta with Chicken, Asparagus & Spinach Recipe:

This recipe combines the fresh flavors of lemon juice and rosemary with the richness of greek yogurt and parmesan cheese. The chicken is perfectly seasoned and cooked to juicy perfection, while the asparagus and baby spinach add a delightful crunch and vibrant color. The use of reserved pasta water ensures a creamy, cohesive sauce that clings to every bite. This dish is not only delicious but also balanced and nutritious, making it a trustworthy choice for a satisfying meal.

Share your thoughts on this Lemon Rosemary Pasta with Chicken, Asparagus & Spinach Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to suggest!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta you like. Penne, fettuccine, or even whole wheat pasta would work great.

What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?

If you don't have Greek yogurt, you can use sour cream or even a bit of heavy cream. Just keep in mind it might change the texture slightly.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you don't have a thermometer, make sure the juices run clear and there's no pink in the center.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it ahead of time. Just keep the pasta and sauce separate until you're ready to serve. Reheat gently on the stove and mix together right before serving.

What other vegetables can I add to this dish?

Feel free to get creative! Mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers would be great additions. Just sauté them along with the asparagus.