Introduction

Looking for a fresh and delicious twist on traditional baked pasta dishes? This Baked Lemon Chicken Spaghetti Primavera is the perfect solution. Combining the bright flavors of lemon, the richness of Monterey Jack and Parmesan cheeses, and the wholesome goodness of vegetables and chicken, this dish is both hearty and light. It’s simple to make yet packed with flavor, making it the ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or when you’re entertaining guests. This comforting pasta bake is sure to become a new favorite in your dinner rotation!

Detailed Ingredients 🧀🍋🍝

• 🛢️ 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 🧈 2 teaspoons butter
• 🌾 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 🥛 Two 12-ounce cans 2% evaporated milk
• 🧀 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 🧀 ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 🌿 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• 🍋 1 medium lemon, juiced and zested
• 🧂 Salt and pepper, to taste
• 🍝 14.5 ounces spaghetti, cooked until al dente
• 🛢️ 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 🧄 2 medium garlic cloves, minced
• 🥦 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 🥕 1 large carrot, peeled and chopped
• 🌶️ 1 large yellow bell pepper, chopped or thinly sliced
• 🍗 2 cups cooked and chopped chicken breast
• 🍅 1½ cups halved cherry tomatoes
• 🧂 Salt and pepper, to taste
• 🧀 ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 🧀 ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 🍋 ½ medium lemon, juiced

Direction

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F and spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray.
2. In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and stir until lightly browned, about 1-2 minutes. Slowly whisk in the evaporated milk, continuously stirring until it thickens slightly. Whisk in the Monterey Jack cheese, Parmesan cheese, fresh thyme, lemon zest and juice, and salt and pepper. Set aside.
3. While the spaghetti is cooking, heat 1 teaspoon olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and stir for 1 minute.
4. Add the broccoli, carrot, and bell pepper. Cook and stir until the vegetables are slightly softened, about 4-5 minutes. Turn off the heat.
5. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and gently toss with the vegetables. Add the chicken, then pour the prepared sauce over the mixture. Toss everything to combine.
6. Transfer the pasta and vegetable mixture to the prepared baking pan. Spread the cherry tomatoes on top and season with salt and pepper. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack cheese and Parmesan cheese on top, and squeeze the juice from ½ lemon over the cheese.
8. Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheeses are melted and the tomatoes are wilted.
9. Scoop the casserole into dishes and serve immediately.

My Story

I’ve always been a fan of pasta dishes, especially ones that feel fresh and comforting at the same time. When I came across this recipe for Baked Lemon Chicken Spaghetti Primavera, I knew it would be a hit in my house. The combination of citrusy lemon, cheesy goodness, and colorful veggies makes this dish feel both indulgent and light. I love how easy it is to pull together, especially when I’m short on time but still want something satisfying. The beauty of this dish is in its versatility—whether you add more vegetables or switch up the cheese, it’s always delicious! It’s now one of my go-to meals for busy weeknights, and I’m so glad to be able to share it with all of you.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of pasta for this dish?
Yes! While spaghetti works wonderfully, you can swap it for penne, rigatoni, or even fettuccine if you prefer. Just be sure to cook the pasta until it’s al dente before assembling the casserole.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pasta and vegetable mixture, cover it with the sauce, and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. When ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven as directed.

Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
Sure! This dish would also be great with grilled shrimp or turkey breast. You can even make it vegetarian by omitting the protein and adding more vegetables.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen! After baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake in the oven until hot throughout.

What can I serve with this dish?
A simple side salad or some garlic bread would pair beautifully with this baked pasta dish. For a lighter side, try serving it with steamed asparagus or roasted Brussels sprouts.

Suggestion

1. Try a different cheese: Instead of Monterey Jack, try using mozzarella or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
2. Add more veggies: This dish is great for getting in those extra veggies. Try adding zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms to the mix.
3. Spice it up: For a kick, add some red pepper flakes or jalapeño slices to the vegetable mix.
4. Use fresh herbs: Swap out the thyme for basil, oregano, or rosemary to bring in new flavors.
5. Add a protein boost: For an extra protein punch, top the casserole with crispy bacon crumbles or toasted pine nuts before baking.

Conclusion

Baked Lemon Chicken Spaghetti Primavera is one of those dishes that brings everything you love about comfort food with a fresh, healthy twist. It’s packed with flavors from the tangy lemon, creamy sauce, and the heartiness of chicken and vegetables. The mix of cheeses makes it indulgent, but the bright lemon and fresh vegetables keep it feeling light. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or for a weekend family gathering, this dish is sure to please everyone. The best part? It’s incredibly versatile, so you can adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences or what’s in your fridge. I hope this recipe becomes a staple in your home, just like it has in mine!

— Sarah Cooper, Gotubbe.com