Name: Crispy Lemon Chicken Bites & Spaghetti Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes; Kosher salt and pepper, to taste; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 3 tablespoons fresh lemon zest, divided; 2 to 3 tablespoons olive oil; ½ pound spaghetti or bucatini; 1 cup reserved pasta water; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; ⅓ cup heavy cream; ½ cup finely grated parmesan cheese, plus more for topping; ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley, plus more for topping

Jump to Recipe· 4.8 from 30 reviews

If you have been searching for a dish that is bursting with fresh flavors, satisfying textures, and a bright, zesty punch, look no further than these Crispy Lemon Chicken Bites & Spaghetti. This delightful recipe elegantly combines tender, golden-browned chicken cubes with al dente pasta coated in a luscious, creamy lemon sauce that is perfectly balanced with garlic and parmesan. Every bite invites you into a symphony of crispiness and tangy freshness, making it an irresistible meal to share with family and friends any night of the week.

Crispy Lemon Chicken Bites & Spaghetti Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting to know your ingredients is the first step toward cooking something truly spectacular. Each one here is simple yet plays an essential role in crafting the vivid taste and texture that define Crispy Lemon Chicken Bites & Spaghetti. From the brightness of fresh lemon zest to the richness of parmesan, these ingredients work together to create something unforgettable.

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into cubes for even cooking and perfect crispy edges.
Kosher salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that elevate all the flavors naturally.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds depth and a hint of warmth without overpowering the dish.
2 tablespoons cornstarch: This is the secret to that irresistibly crispy coating on the chicken bites.
3 tablespoons fresh lemon zest: Brightens the dish with its fresh citrus aroma and flavor.
2 to 3 tablespoons olive oil: Used for both browning the chicken and sautéing the garlic for rich flavor.
½ pound spaghetti or bucatini: Provides the perfect canvas to soak up that creamy lemon sauce.
1 cup reserved pasta water: Adds silkiness and helps create a light, cohesive sauce.
2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic and savory notes.
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Enhances the lemony brightness and balances the creaminess.
⅓ cup heavy cream: Gives the sauce that luscious, creamy texture without weighing it down.
½ cup finely grated parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty richness that ties everything together.
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley: Brings a fresh, herbal contrast and lovely color to the dish.

How to Make Crispy Lemon Chicken Bites & Spaghetti

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Start by chopping the chicken breasts into evenly sized cubes to ensure each bite cooks through perfectly. Season all the chicken pieces with kosher salt, pepper, and garlic powder — this layering of seasoning sets the foundation for bold flavor. Then, sprinkle on the cornstarch along with one tablespoon of fresh lemon zest, tossing everything together carefully to coat each piece. This combination promises a crunchy, aromatic crust when fried.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken to Crispy Perfection

Heat the olive oil in a wide skillet over medium heat — this gives the chicken enough space to cook in a single layer for maximum crispiness. Add the chicken cubes, and let them brown without moving them for about 3 to 4 minutes on one side. Once nicely golden, turn the pieces so they brown evenly all over. This process should take 10 to 12 minutes in total until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit and boasts that beautiful crisp exterior.

Step 3: Cook the Spaghetti and Reserve Pasta Water

While your chicken crisps up, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti or bucatini according to package instructions. It’s essential to save a cup of the starchy pasta water before draining — this will come in handy for creating the delicious, creamy lemon sauce that clings to every strand.

Step 4: Build the Creamy Lemon Sauce

Using the same skillet (no need to dirty another pan!), add the minced garlic and cook it for about 30 seconds until fragrant—add a quick drizzle of olive oil if your pan looks dry. Toss in the cooked pasta, half a cup of the reserved pasta water, fresh lemon juice, the heavy cream, and the rest of the lemon zest. Stir everything together for a minute or two so the spaghetti is lightly coated in a silky, lemony sauce. The sauce should feel light, not thick, maintaining that fresh and inviting texture.

Step 5: Add Cheese, Herbs, and Return the Chicken

Next, sprinkle in the parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, tossing well to meld all the flavors together. Give the mixture a quick taste for seasoning and adjust if necessary. Finally, add those glorious crispy chicken bites back into the pan to warm through and mix evenly with the spaghetti.

How to Serve Crispy Lemon Chicken Bites & Spaghetti

Garnishes

To make your presentation shine, finish with extra freshly grated parmesan and a sprinkle of chopped parsley. The cheese adds a lovely salty richness while the herbs lift the dish visually and flavor-wise. A few lemon slices on the side also work beautifully for a fresh zesty touch.

Side Dishes

Serve this dish with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables. A crusty garlic bread or even warm focaccia would also complement the creamy lemon pasta and add a wonderful texture contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fancier dinner, plate the spaghetti in neat nests using tongs and arrange the chicken bites on top. Add microgreens or edible flowers for color and sophistication. Alternatively, serve family-style with a big bowl of the Crispy Lemon Chicken Bites & Spaghetti in the center of the table for easy sharing and conversation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Crispy Lemon Chicken Bites & Spaghetti will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain as much crispness as possible, store the chicken bites separately from the pasta if you can, and combine them when reheating.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen if necessary. Freeze the cooked chicken bites and pasta separately in labeled containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Reheating

When reheating, do so over low to medium heat on the stovetop to keep the chicken from drying out and to prevent the sauce from breaking. Add a splash of water or cream if the sauce thickens too much. The goal is to bring back that creamy, saucy texture with tender chicken bites.

FAQs

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

Absolutely! While spaghetti or bucatini is recommended for its texture and ability to hold the sauce, feel free to swap in linguine, fettuccine, or even a short pasta like penne if that’s what you have on hand.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs, and ensure your cornstarch and other ingredients are certified gluten-free. The recipe works wonderfully without any wheat-based products.

How can I make the chicken bites extra crispy?

Make sure the chicken pieces are coated evenly with cornstarch and that the pan is hot before adding them. Avoid overcrowding the skillet so each piece crisps nicely. Also, don’t move the chicken too soon—let it develop a golden crust before flipping.

Can I substitute heavy cream with a lighter option?

You can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or even a coconut cream for a dairy-free twist, but keep in mind the sauce will be less thick and creamy. Adjust the amount of pasta water accordingly to keep the consistency just right.

Is this dish good for meal prep?

Yes, the components can be prepped in advance, making this recipe a great option for meal prep. Keep chicken and pasta separate until serving to preserve texture, and reheat gently for the best experience.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the Crispy Lemon Chicken Bites & Spaghetti that brings comfort and excitement to the dinner table all at once. It’s a perfect balance of crispiness and creaminess, brightness and richness. I hope you give this recipe a try and discover just how delightful a simple meal can become when made with fresh ingredients and a little love. Get ready to make this one of your favorite go-to dinners!