This creamy, flavorful pasta dish is packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich, savory sauce that will leave everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or prepping a satisfying meal for the weekend, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this comforting dish from start to finish!
Ingredients with Quantity
Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious pasta with chicken and vegetables recipe:
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rotini)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions and Preparation Method
Step 1: Cooking the Pasta
Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Be sure to cook it al dente to avoid overcooking once added to the sauce later. After cooking, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Preparing the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet and season them with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Cook the chicken until it is browned on all sides and fully cooked through (about 7-10 minutes). Once the chicken is ready, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: Cooking the Vegetables
In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, zucchini, and broccoli to the skillet, sautéing until the vegetables are softened. This will take about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant and infuse the oil.
Step 4: Creating the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream (or milk, depending on your preference for a lighter version). Stir in the Italian seasoning and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes. This will help the flavors blend together and thicken slightly.
Step 5: Finishing the Sauce
Once the sauce has simmered, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and combines smoothly into the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or garlic powder if needed.
Step 6: Combining Everything
Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring that the pasta and chicken are fully coated with the creamy sauce. Finally, add in the halved cherry tomatoes and gently stir them in.
Step 7: Serving
Once everything is combined, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley before serving warm. Enjoy your hearty, creamy pasta with chicken and vegetables!
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Penne, fettuccine, or rotini work best, but feel free to experiment with your favorite pasta shape.
Q: Can I make this dish lighter? A: Absolutely! To lighten this dish, use milk instead of heavy cream, and reduce the amount of cheese. You can also use olive oil instead of butter for sautéing the vegetables.
Q: Can I add more vegetables? A: Yes! This recipe is versatile, and you can add additional vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms to the mix for extra flavor and nutrition.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken, pasta, and vegetables ahead of time. When ready to serve, simply reheat everything and combine with the sauce.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free? A: Yes, by using gluten-free pasta, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free. Just ensure the other ingredients you use are also gluten-free.
Conclusion
This creamy pasta with chicken and vegetables is the perfect meal for those who crave a comforting dish that’s quick and easy to make. With a creamy sauce, tender chicken, and a variety of vegetables, it’s not only satisfying but also full of nutrients. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal that’s sure to impress guests, this recipe is a must-try. Pair it with a light salad or some garlic bread for a full meal experience. Enjoy the flavors, and remember – every bite will bring you closer to pasta perfection!