Spicy citrus baked chicken over spinach and chive linguini

Baking chicken that has been marinated is a really easy way to cook some delicious meat without having to watch it (you can prep pasta, salad, any side dishes, or dessert while it's baking in the oven!) This is one of my go-to dinners on weekdays when I don't feel like spending a ton of time being active in the kitchen. The citrus flavors go together really well with all the spices and make for a delectable topping on some spinach and chive pasta (or any other kind of carb you prefer). Yields 4 servings.

Ingredients

4 4-oz. chicken breasts
zest and juice from half of a large lemon (or you can use a whole lime)
1 tablespoon of garlic chili powder
1/2 tablespoon of salt
1 tablespoon of smoked paprika
1 teaspoon of red chili pepper flakes
1 teaspoon of red cayenne pepper
3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375 F
Combine the zest, juice, salt, spices, and olive oil in a medium bowl and mix well. Rub the citrus spice marinade over each chicken breast (coat evenly on both sides). You can start baking the chicken right away, or for enhanced flavor, let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator (keep the breasts in the marinade in a sealed plastic bag) for up to 24 hours.
Bake the chicken in an ovenproof dish for ~35 minutes or until fully cooked. While it's baking, you can cook the spinach and chive pasta (available at Trader Joe's).
Top with some basil, sundried tomatoes, and goat cheese if desired. Serve with your favorite salad or side dish.

Recipe courtesy of Monica Lisha

Happy and healthy eating!