Green Spaghetti with Chicken: A Delicious, Healthy Recipe You’ll Love

Green Spaghetti with Chicken is a colorful, flavorful twist on the classic Italian favorite. Instead of the usual red sauce, this dish features a creamy, herb-infused green sauce made from fresh greens like spinach, parsley, or poblano peppers. Paired with tender, juicy chicken, it makes for a balanced, comforting meal that’s both healthy and satisfying. In this article, you’ll discover how to prepare this dish step by step, the best variations, common mistakes to avoid, nutritional benefits, and answers to the most common questions about green spaghetti.

Introduction to Green Spaghetti with Chicken

What makes green spaghetti unique?

Green Spaghetti with Chicken stands out because of its vibrant color and earthy flavor. Unlike traditional marinara or alfredo, the sauce is usually made by blending leafy greens, herbs, garlic, olive oil, and sometimes creamy elements like cream cheese or sour cream. This combination gives the spaghetti a smooth texture and a herby taste that feels light yet rich.

Green Spaghetti with Chicken is popular in Mexican and Italian-inspired cuisines. Many versions feature roasted poblano peppers for a smoky flavor, while others stick to a spinach-parsley base for a fresher vibe. The versatility of the sauce makes it perfect for creative variations.

Why pair chicken with green spaghetti?

Chicken is an ideal pairing for Green Spaghetti with Chicken because it adds lean protein and a mild taste that complements the herbal sauce without overpowering it. Whether you grill, bake, or sauté the chicken, it balances the pasta’s creaminess with a satisfying bite. Plus, it turns the dish into a wholesome, complete meal. Using chicken breast or thighs lets you adjust the fat and calorie content to your liking, making it suitable for a variety of diets.

Ingredients for Green Spaghetti with Chicken

Core ingredients you need

The beauty of green spaghetti with chicken is that it uses simple, fresh ingredients easily found at your local store. Below is a table to help you gather everything you need for 4 servings.

Most traditional recipes use roasted poblano peppers for the sauce, but you can also substitute with spinach and parsley for a lighter, less smoky version. The combination of greens, cream, and garlic makes a smooth, flavorful sauce that clings beautifully to the spaghetti.

Optional herbs and garnishes

To elevate your dish, sprinkle on fresh herbs and toppings at the end. Some great options include:

• Chopped cilantro or parsley
• Red pepper flakes for a little heat
• A squeeze of fresh lime juice for brightness
• Toasted pine nuts or pepitas for crunch

These garnishes not only enhance the flavor but also add a pop of color and texture to your plate.

Step-by-Step Recipe to Make Green Spaghetti with Chicken

Making green spaghetti with chicken is surprisingly simple once you break it down. Below you’ll find a step-by-step guide to help you create this delicious dish at home.

How to make the green sauce

The green sauce is the star of the show. Here’s how to prepare it:

1. Roast or blanch the greens:
   If you’re using poblano peppers, roast them over an open flame or under the broiler until the skin blisters. Let them cool, then peel, seed, and roughly chop. If using spinach and parsley, simply blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds and drain.
2. Blend the sauce:
   In a blender, combine your greens (poblano or spinach-parsley), garlic, chicken broth, and sour cream (or cream cheese). Blend until smooth. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
3. Simmer the sauce:
   Warm a small amount of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Pour in the blended sauce and let it simmer for about 5–7 minutes to thicken slightly. Keep warm.

Cooking chicken perfectly

For juicy, flavorful chicken:

1. Season: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika if you like.
2. Cook: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F).
3. Rest and slice: Let the chicken rest a few minutes before slicing into strips or bite-size pieces.

Combining spaghetti, sauce, and chicken

1. Cook spaghetti: Boil spaghetti in salted water according to package instructions. Drain, reserving about ½ cup pasta water.
2. Toss: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the green sauce. Toss until all strands are coated. If the sauce seems too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
3. Serve: Plate the pasta, top with sliced chicken, and garnish with parmesan, cilantro, or a squeeze of lime.

Green Spaghetti with Chicken: A Delicious, Healthy Recipe You’ll Love

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• Author: Rifod
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

This vibrant green spaghetti with chicken is a flavorful and comforting dish that brings a fresh twist to classic pasta. Featuring tender spaghetti tossed in a creamy, herbaceous green sauce made with roasted poblano peppers, garlic, and cream, it’s perfectly balanced with juicy, pan-seared chicken breast and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Finished with a squeeze of lime and served on a rustic table, this dish is both elegant enough for special gatherings and easy enough for a weeknight dinner. A true crowd-pleaser with a touch of Mexican-inspired flair!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb spaghetti
• 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
• 4 poblano peppers
• 1 cup cilantro (leaves only)
• ½ onion, roughly chopped
• 1 cup crema Mexicana or sour cream
• 1 box (8 oz) cream cheese
• 3 cloves of garlic
• 1 cube chicken (or veggie) bouillon
• ½–1 cup milk or water
• 1–2 serrano or jalapeño peppers (optional)
• Cotija cheese, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions and drain, reserving some of the pasta water for later. Toss noodles with butter or olive oil so they don’t stick together.
2. While the spaghetti is cooking, roast the poblanos (see notes below or post above for instructions). If using serrano or jalapeño peppers these can be roasted as well, or left raw.
3. Place the peppers in a blender along with the, cilantro, onion, crema, cream cheese, garlic, chicken bouillon and ½ cup of milk or reserved pasta water (and serranos or jalapeños, if using). Blend until smooth and creamy.
4. Pour into large pot over medium-low heat and season to taste with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then add spaghetti and stir to coat. Add additional milk or pasta water if it gets too thick. Serve with cotija cheese, if desired.

Notes

How to roast peppers

Gas stove: they can be roasted directly over the open flame. Place the peppers on the grates. Use tongs to turn peppers until they are charred all over.

Electric stove: broil them in the oven. Place on a cookie sheet, line with aluminum foil, and broil at high heat, turning with tongs every so often until charred and blistered all over.

After the peppers have been roasted, place in a ziplock bag or in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap so they can steam for about 5-10 minutes. Then, remove the blackened skin, stems and seeds.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired, Fusion

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1
• Calories: 233
• Sugar: ~2 g
• Sodium: ~310 mg
• Fat: ~8 g
• Saturated Fat: ~3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: ~4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: ~25 g
• Fiber: ~2 g
• Protein: ~16 g
• Cholesterol: ~45 mg

Nutritional Benefits of Green Spaghetti with Chicken

Green spaghetti with chicken isn’t just tasty — it also packs a nutritional punch. By combining leafy greens, lean protein, and whole grains (if you choose whole-wheat pasta), you get a balanced meal with plenty of health benefits.

Protein, fiber, and vitamins explained

The chicken provides a solid source of high-quality protein, which helps build and repair muscle while keeping you full longer. The green sauce, whether made from spinach, parsley, or poblanos, is loaded with vitamins like A, C, and K, plus iron and antioxidants. Spaghetti contributes carbohydrates for energy and, if made from whole grain, adds beneficial fiber for digestion.

Here’s a quick look at the approximate nutrition per serving (based on a spinach-based sauce and skinless chicken breast):

For those aiming for a healthy lifestyle, this meal fits right in. You can lower calories by using zucchini noodles or whole-wheat pasta and opting for low-fat sour cream in the sauce.

Why it’s a balanced meal choice

Combining carbs, lean protein, healthy fats, and micronutrients in one dish makes this recipe a smart choice for dinner. It keeps your blood sugar more stable than eating plain pasta and helps avoid the sluggish feeling that sometimes comes after a heavy meal.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the great things about green spaghetti with chicken is how adaptable it is. Whether you have dietary restrictions, want to try something new, or simply don’t have all the ingredients on hand, here are some easy substitutions and creative variations you can try.

Using other proteins or plant-based options

If you prefer not to use chicken, plenty of other proteins pair beautifully with Green Spaghetti with Chicken. Here are some tasty alternatives:

• Shrimp or fish: Add a light, seafood twist by sautéing shrimp or grilling fish fillets instead of chicken.
• Beef or turkey: Thin slices of grilled beef or lean ground turkey work well for heartier meals.
• Plant-based: For a vegetarian or vegan option, try roasted mushrooms, chickpeas, or pan-seared tofu. These options provide texture and plenty of protein.
• Cheese-based protein: Crumble queso fresco, feta, or even cubes of paneer over the finished pasta for a creamy bite.

Gluten-free and low-carb spaghetti alternatives

If you’re avoiding gluten or cutting carbs, you can still enjoy this dish by swapping out traditional pasta. Here are some ideas:

• Gluten-free spaghetti (made with rice, corn, or quinoa flour)
• Zucchini noodles (zoodles)
• Spaghetti squash
• Shirataki noodles

These options keep the dish light while maintaining the creamy, herby flavors of the green sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though green spaghetti with chicken is a straightforward recipe, a few missteps can affect the final result. Here are the most common mistakes — and how to avoid them.

Overcooking pasta or chicken

Nothing ruins a good dish like mushy spaghetti or dry, tough chicken.

• Pasta: Always cook spaghetti al dente — just firm to the bite. Remember it will absorb more sauce as you toss it, so avoid overcooking it in the pot.
• Chicken: Use a thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F internally, but don’t cook it much beyond that. Let it rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juiciness.

Getting the sauce consistency wrong

Another common mistake is ending up with a sauce that’s too thick, thin, or bland.

• Too thick? Pour in a splash of the reserved pasta water or a little extra chicken broth if needed.
• Too thin? Let it simmer a few more minutes to reduce.
• Bland? Taste and adjust seasoning — salt, pepper, even a squeeze of lime juice can brighten the flavors.

By avoiding these common errors, you’ll ensure every plate of green spaghetti with chicken is as flavorful and satisfying as possible.

Best Sides and Drinks to Serve With Green Spaghetti and Chicken

Green spaghetti with chicken is already a hearty and flavorful dish, but pairing it with the right sides and drinks can turn an ordinary dinner into an unforgettable meal.

Salads and breads that complement it

A fresh, crisp salad and some warm bread are classic pairings with pasta. Here are a few options that pair beautifully with the creamy green sauce and tender chicken:

• Simple arugula or mixed greens salad-lightly dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the sauce.
• Caprese salad-fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella bring bright, Italian-inspired flavors.
• Serve with garlic bread or baguette slices-ideal for mopping up the remaining green sauce on the plate.
• Roasted vegetables-such as asparagus, carrots, or zucchini for an extra dose of nutrition and color.

Recommended beverages

When it comes to drinks, think light and refreshing to balance the creamy and savory elements of the dish:

• White wine — a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs nicely.
• Sparkling water with lime — a refreshing non-alcoholic choice.
• Light beer — complements the smoky or herby green sauce without overpowering it.
• Herbal iced tea — like mint or chamomile for a subtle, soothing option.

By adding thoughtful sides and drinks, you can create a complete dining experience that impresses family and guests alike.

Conclusion and Final Tips

Green spaghetti with chicken is more than just a vibrant, comforting dish — it’s also a healthy, versatile, and family-friendly recipe you can enjoy anytime. Whether you stick with the traditional roasted poblano sauce or opt for a spinach-parsley blend, the result is a colorful plate full of flavor, nutrition, and satisfaction.

To recap:

• Use fresh greens and quality chicken for the best taste and texture.
• Cook your pasta al dente and don’t forget to season as you go.
• Try different protein and pasta variations to suit dietary needs.
• Pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, and your favorite wine for a complete meal.

Don’t be afraid to experiment. This recipe is flexible and welcomes your creative variations. The next time you want to wow your guests-or just treat yourself-green spaghetti with chicken is the perfect choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some of the most common questions people have about green spaghetti with chicken.