Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Spectacular Spring Dinner is a vibrant, fresh, and seasonal meal that celebrates the best produce spring has to offer. With a combination of tender roasted chicken, herbed vegetables, and a light lemony pasta, this dinner is perfect for entertaining or a cozy night in. It’s easy to prepare, visually stunning, and full of bright, zesty flavors that welcome the warmer months with open arms.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless chicken breasts or thighs
asparagus
baby carrots
radishes
baby potatoes
olive oil
lemon juice and zest
garlic
fresh thyme
fresh parsley
salt
black pepper
parmesan cheese
angel hair or spaghetti pasta
butter

directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

Place the chicken on the sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, garlic, and thyme.

Add chopped baby potatoes, carrots, radishes, and asparagus around the chicken. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with lemon zest.

Roast in the oven for 25–30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender and golden.

Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and toss with butter, lemon juice, parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley.

Plate the pasta, top with roasted vegetables and sliced chicken, and garnish with extra lemon zest and herbs.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Swap chicken for salmon fillets or tofu for a pescatarian or vegetarian version.
Add peas or green beans for extra green color.
Use orzo instead of long pasta for a different texture.
Sprinkle pine nuts or almonds for a crunchy topping.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or microwave in 1-minute increments.
Pasta may need a splash of olive oil or lemon juice when reheating to refresh flavor.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep everything in advance and roast when ready to serve.

Can I use frozen vegetables?
Fresh is best for texture, but thawed and drained frozen veggies can work in a pinch.

How do I know when the chicken is done?
Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Can I skip the pasta?
Absolutely! Serve with rice, quinoa, or just the roasted vegetables.

What wine pairs well with this meal?
A crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the citrus and herbs beautifully.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, just use gluten-free pasta or skip it entirely.

Conclusion

Spectacular Spring Dinner is a fresh and flavorful way to bring the season to your table. With bright ingredients, easy steps, and plenty of room for customization, it’s the kind of meal that looks fancy but feels effortless. Perfect for any spring evening, it’s sure to impress and satisfy.