How to Make a Delicious Chicken Pasta Primavera

Chicken Pasta Primavera is a popular Italian-American dish that combines the flavors and textures of fresh vegetables with tender pasta. This recipe offers an easy yet elegant meal that can be enjoyed as a main course or served over a bed of greens for a light lunch. With its versatility, this dish can suit various dietary preferences, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1 pound small pasta (like penne or fusilli)
• 3 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped fine
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup carrots, sliced diagonally
• 1 cup zucchini, sliced into rounds
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped finely (for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Cooking spray for the pan

Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

1. Boil a large pot of salted water. Add in the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, which typically takes around 7-9 minutes for most pastas.
2. Drain the pasta and reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook for about 5-7 minutes or until thoroughly browned on all sides.
4. Add garlic and onions to the pan, stirring frequently. Continue cooking until the onions are softened and translucent (about another 2 minutes).

Step 3: Combine Vegetables

5. Add the cherry tomatoes, broccoli florets, carrots, and zucchini to the skillet with the chicken. Toss gently until everything is well mixed.
6. Cover the pan, reduce heat slightly, and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes or until vegetables are tender but still vibrant in color.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Pasta

6. Add drained pasta into the skillet along with lemon juice, butter, salt, pepper, and reserved pasta cooking water. Stir well so that all components are thoroughly mixed together.
7. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top just before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.

Final Touches

Once everything is combined nicely in the skillet, the dish should be ready. Serve hot directly from the pan, garnished with additional parsley if desired. This meal can also be served over a bed of fresh spinach or arugula for added crunch and freshness.

Cooking Time

Preparation time: Approximately 25 minutesTotal cooking time: About 40 minutes (including pasta boiling time)

Serving Size

This recipe serves approximately 4 people. It makes a substantial amount, so you may have leftovers for lunches or another dinner.

Why You Should Try Chicken Pasta Primavera

• Hearty and filling: The combination of protein from chicken and fiber-rich vegetables ensures that this dish not only tastes great but also provides a nutritious meal.
• Variety in flavors: The use of different types of vegetables, along with the tangy lemon juice and rich butter flavor, creates an exciting array of tastes.
• Easy to customize: Feel free to add or substitute certain ingredients based on your dietary needs or personal preferences. For instance, you could include mushrooms for extra umami or use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.

Tips and Tricks

To enhance the flavor of this dish further, consider adding red pepper flakes towards the end of cooking to introduce some heat. Also, if you like more sauce than just what forms in the skillet, try mixing in a small amount of pesto or Alfredo sauce right at the finish.

In conclusion, Chicken Pasta Primavera is an excellent choice for those seeking to enjoy a balanced and flavorful meal. Its simplicity combined with its adaptability makes it suitable for various occasions and dietary requirements. Whether you're hosting friends over, having a casual family dinner, or looking for something tasty yet nutritious for lunch, this recipe promises delicious results every time!