Easy Chicken Pasta Primavera Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Rotini Pasta: Rotini is great for holding onto sauces, but any pasta works. Try penne, fusilli, or whole grain pasta for a different texture. Gluten-free pasta is also a wonderful option if you have dietary needs.

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is quick to cook and easy to handle. You can substitute with diced turkey or cooked shrimp, or even use chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

Vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli add vibrant colors and nutrients. Feel free to swap in vegetables like spinach, carrots, or mushrooms based on your preference or what’s in season.

Parmesan Cheese: The cheese adds flavor and creaminess. If you need a substitute, use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan twist.

How Do I Get the Chicken Cooked Just Right?

Cooking chicken perfectly can be tricky, but here’s how to nail it:

• Start with chicken at room temperature. It cooks more evenly this way.
• Use medium-high heat for a nice sear. Searing locks in flavor.
• Cook for 5-6 minutes per side, checking that it’s no longer pink inside to ensure it’s done.
• Resting after cooking is key. This keeps the juices from running out when you slice it.

These tips will help you achieve juicy, flavorful chicken in your pasta primavera. Enjoy cooking!

Easy Chicken Pasta Primavera

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Pasta and Chicken:

• 8 oz rotini pasta (or your favorite pasta shape)
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for chicken)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Vegetables:

• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup zucchini, chopped
• 1 cup red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for vegetables)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings and Toppings:

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or mixed dried herbs)
• Optional: fresh basil or parsley for garnish
• Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick and efficient, making it perfect for a busy weeknight if you’re craving something delicious and healthy.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta per the package instructions until it’s al dente, then drain and set it aside. This will be the base of your dish.

2. Prepare the Chicken:

While the pasta is cooking, pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning for flavor. This will make the chicken delicious!

3. Sear the Chicken:

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side until they’re cooked through and golden brown. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.

4. Sauté the Vegetables:

In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Then toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant (but be careful not to burn it!). Next, add the broccoli, zucchini, red bell pepper, and asparagus. Cook for around 5-7 minutes until the veggies are tender yet still have a bit of crunch.

5. Add Cherry Tomatoes:

Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes, just until they start to soften. This adds a burst of flavor to your dish!

6. Combine Everything:

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Return the cooked pasta to the skillet with the vegetables. Toss everything well to combine, making sure the pasta is mixed in with the veggies. Add the remaining Italian seasoning, and season with a little more salt and pepper if needed.

7. Finish with Cheese:

Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir it into the pasta and vegetables until everything is nicely coated and creamy.

8. Serve:

Plate the pasta primavera and top it off with the sliced grilled chicken breasts. For a final touch, garnish with extra Parmesan, fresh herbs, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.

9. Enjoy!

Dig in and enjoy your colorful, flavorful, and easy chicken pasta primavera!

FAQ for Easy Chicken Pasta Primavera

Can I Use Different Vegetables?

Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile. You can use any vegetables you enjoy or have on hand, such as spinach, carrots, mushrooms, or even frozen mixed vegetables. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

What Pasta Can I Substitute?

While rotini works great for this dish, you can substitute with any pasta shape you like, such as penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta. Gluten-free pasta also works well if you’re looking for a gluten-free option.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of olive oil or water to keep it from drying out.

Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?

Yes! To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables or include protein alternatives like chickpeas, tofu, or a plant-based meat substitute. You can also use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor in the pasta.