Summer calls for fresh, vibrant meals that come together quickly without sacrificing flavor, and these 11 summer chicken pasta recipes fit the bill perfectly. Bursting with zesty lemon, fragrant herbs, and wholesome chicken, these dishes bring lightness and brightness to your table—ideal for warm days when you want something satisfying but not heavy. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for entertaining, these recipes deliver on both taste and ease.
Each recipe highlights the natural freshness of summer ingredients, combining tender chicken with the zing of lemon and the aromatic charm of herbs like basil, thyme, and parsley. The pastas are simple yet elegant, ranging from creamy to tangy, with textures and flavors that keep you coming back for more. No complicated steps or hours in the kitchen—just straightforward cooking that lets the ingredients shine.
You’ll find inspiration for everything from light lemon herb chicken pasta salads perfect for picnics, to warm, comforting bowls that are ready in under 30 minutes. These recipes are designed to make your summer cooking effortless, while still impressing family and friends with bold, fresh flavors.
Get ready to savor the taste of summer with these delightful chicken pasta dishes that celebrate sunshine and simplicity in every bite.
One-Pan Creamy Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta
This One-Pan Creamy Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the freshness of lemon and fragrant basil with tender chicken and al dente pasta. The creamy texture makes it irresistibly comforting, while the bright lemony notes keep it light and refreshing—perfect for summer dining. Plus, it’s a breeze to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights!
With everything cooked in just one pan, cleanup is a snap. You’ll love how quickly the chicken cooks, soaking up the zesty flavors, and how the pasta becomes infused with a creamy sauce that’s both satisfying and delicious. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Lemon Pesto Chicken Penne
Lemon Pesto Chicken Penne is a delightful dish that perfectly marries fresh flavors with ease of preparation. The zesty lemon and aromatic herbs create a refreshing sauce that coats each piece of penne, while tender chicken adds heartiness.
This recipe is straightforward and quick, making it ideal for busy summer nights. You’ll enjoy a bright and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the pesto, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix well.
- Add Chicken and Pasta: Toss the cooked penne and shredded chicken into the bowl with the sauce, mixing until everything is evenly coated.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the grated Parmesan and toasted pine nuts.
- Serve: Plate the pasta, garnishing with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan if desired.
Zesty Lemon Garlic Chicken Rotini
This Zesty Lemon Garlic Chicken Rotini is a perfect dish for those warm summer nights when you want something light yet satisfying. With tender chicken tossed in a zesty lemon-garlic sauce and fresh herbs, it’s a flavor-packed meal that feels refreshing and invigorating.
What’s great about this recipe is how simple it is to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The combination of lemon and garlic adds a vibrant touch, while the rotini pasta provides a delightful bite. It’s a no-fuss recipe that requires minimal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces rotini pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cherry tomatoes, halved (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the rotini and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Lemon: Stir in the minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked rotini to the skillet, tossing everything together until well combined. Cook for an additional minute to heat through.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve the pasta warm, garnished with halved cherry tomatoes and fresh parsley.
Lemon Spinach Chicken Fettuccine
This Lemon Spinach Chicken Fettuccine is a delightful combination of tender chicken, fresh spinach, and rich pasta, all brought together with a zesty lemon sauce. It’s a light, refreshing dish perfect for warm summer evenings, offering a burst of flavor in every bite!
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a meal that’s both satisfying and healthy. It’s ideal for those busy weeknights when you crave something delicious but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the fettuccine in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the cooked chicken and sauté for 2-3 minutes. Stir in the lemon juice and zest, mixing well.
- Add Spinach: Toss in the fresh spinach and cook until just wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
- Combine: Add the drained fettuccine to the skillet and mix everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before enjoying!
Herbed Chicken Pasta Primavera
This Herbed Chicken Pasta Primavera is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with fresh summer vegetables and perfectly cooked pasta. Bright, zesty flavors from lemon and herbs make this meal a refreshing choice for warm evenings. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also simple to prepare, making it perfect for a hassle-free weeknight dinner.
The combination of juicy cherry tomatoes and aromatic herbs enhances the dish, bringing a touch of garden freshness to your plate. It’s a satisfying yet light meal that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a crisp salad. This is a recipe that highlights the best of summer produce while being quick to whip up!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 ounces spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and let rest before slicing.
- Prepare the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cherry tomatoes. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes soften. Stir in lemon juice and zest.
- Combine and Serve: Add the pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the tomato mixture. Top with sliced chicken, and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Pasta
This Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Pasta is a perfect dish for summer, bursting with fresh flavors and lightness. Grilled chicken marinated in zesty lemon and herbs pairs wonderfully with pasta, making it a simple yet satisfying meal that requires minimal fuss.
The combination of lemon and herbs brings a refreshing taste that complements the grilled chicken and al dente pasta. Ready in no time, it’s ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and coat well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Let it rest before slicing.
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water.
- Combine: In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with lemon zest, fresh parsley, and a little reserved pasta water to create a light sauce. Slice the grilled chicken and place it on top.
- Serve: Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired, and enjoy your delicious Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Pasta!
Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Orzo
This Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Orzo is a delightful dish that brings together the fresh flavors of lemon, herbs, and tender chicken. It’s simple to make, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a lazy summer lunch.
The combination of juicy chicken and the zesty lemon-infused orzo creates a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying. You’ll love how the olives and feta add that classic Mediterranean touch, making every bite a burst of flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/3 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, and oregano. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Then, add the orzo, chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest. Stir well and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and cover the skillet. Simmer for about 10-12 minutes or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in the cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese. Allow to heat through for a couple of minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and additional lemon wedges if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Lemon Dill Chicken Pasta Salad
This Lemon Dill Chicken Pasta Salad is a refreshing and tangy dish that screams summer. With its bright lemon flavor and fresh dill, it brings a burst of zest to your table. Perfect for a picnic or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is simple to prepare and packed with flavor.
The combination of tender chicken, rotini pasta, and a creamy dressing creates a satisfying meal that can be made in no time. It’s light yet filling, making it an ideal option for hot days when you want something delicious without the fuss.
Ingredients
- 3 cups rotini pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Make the Dressing: In a bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and fresh dill. Pour the dressing over and toss gently to coat.
- Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Toss again before serving and adjust seasoning if needed. Enjoy your refreshing salad!
Creamy Lemon Alfredo Chicken Bowtie
This Creamy Lemon Alfredo Chicken Bowtie recipe is a delightful summer dish that perfectly balances rich and zesty flavors. The creamy Alfredo sauce, combined with hints of lemon, creates a fresh and vibrant taste that’s both simple and satisfying.
Ideal for busy weeknights, this recipe is quick to prepare and packed with comforting ingredients. The bowtie pasta holds the sauce beautifully, making each bite a burst of creamy goodness. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces bowtie pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Add Cheese and Lemon: Stir in Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine: Add the shredded chicken and cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat everything in the sauce.
- Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Lemon Rosemary Chicken Spaghetti
This Lemon Rosemary Chicken Spaghetti is a delightfully fresh dish that captures the essence of summer with every bite. The zesty lemon combined with aromatic rosemary brings a bright flavor to the tender chicken and spaghetti, making it a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Not only is this recipe easy to prepare, but it’s also light yet satisfying. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the flavors to shine, and the whole dish comes together in under 30 minutes. You’ll love how effortlessly it comes together while still delivering a gourmet feel!
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let it rest before slicing.
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped rosemary, stirring well.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing it in the lemon-rosemary sauce. Slice the chicken and lay it on top. Toss everything to combine and heat through.
- Serve: Plate the spaghetti and chicken, topping with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and additional rosemary if desired.
Simple Lemon Chicken Pasta with Vegetables
This Simple Lemon Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a zesty lemon sauce. Perfect for warm summer evenings, it’s light yet satisfying, making it an ideal choice for a quick and easy meal. The bright flavors of lemon and fresh herbs make every bite refreshing.
With minimal cooking required, you can whip this up in no time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a fuss-free meal that still feels special. This dish is sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, boil water and cook the spaghetti or fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Add the zucchini and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts.
- Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet and add the cooked pasta. Pour in the lemon juice and toss everything together until well combined. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and enjoy your Simple Lemon Chicken Pasta!
Final Thoughts
These 11 summer chicken pasta recipes are the perfect way to embrace the season’s best flavors without the fuss. Quick to prepare and full of zest, they prove that easy meals can be both delicious and refreshing. Whip up one (or several!) of these recipes and enjoy the best of summer dining any day of the week.