Chicken and Veg Pasta Recipe for Quick Healthy Meals

Pasta dishes are a timeless favorite, loved for their comforting textures and endless versatility. When combined with tender chicken and a vibrant medley of vegetables, pasta transforms into a wholesome, hearty meal that satisfies both the palate and the appetite.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or preparing a cozy weekend dinner, this chicken and veg pasta recipe offers a perfect balance of protein, fiber, and flavor. It’s quick enough to whip up on a weeknight yet impressive enough to serve to guests.

This recipe embraces fresh ingredients and simple cooking techniques to create a delicious dish bursting with color and nutrition. From the juicy chicken breast to the crisp bell peppers and earthy mushrooms, every bite delivers a delightful combination of textures and tastes.

Plus, it’s easily customizable to suit your preferences or whatever vegetables you have on hand. Ready to dive into this tasty, nutritious pasta creation?

Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chicken and veg pasta recipe is a winner for so many reasons:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy schedules.
• Nutritious: Packed with lean protein and a colorful array of vegetables, this dish supports a balanced diet.
• Flexible: Swap veggies or pasta types based on what you have available or your dietary needs.
• Family-Friendly: Mild flavors and familiar ingredients make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup with most of the cooking happening in one pan.

Ingredients

• 250g penne or fusilli pasta
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
• 150g mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Colander or strainer
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the chicken and vegetables: While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add vegetables: Stir in the bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. Cook until tender but still crisp, about 5 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Combine and simmer: Return the chicken to the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth and allow to simmer for 3-4 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the broth reduce slightly.
6. Toss with pasta and cheese: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped basil. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
7. Serve immediately: Divide the pasta among plates or bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan or basil, if desired.

Tips & Variations

To make this dish even more vibrant, try adding cherry tomatoes or spinach during the vegetable sauté step. For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese just before serving.

If you prefer a gluten-free option, swapping the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety works beautifully without compromising flavor.

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken briefly in lemon juice, garlic, and Italian herbs before cooking. This adds a zesty brightness that pairs wonderfully with the vegetables.

Looking for a lower-carb version? Spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles can replace traditional pasta.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This chicken and veg pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a simple Caesar salad. For a heartier meal, serve alongside garlic bread or warm focaccia.

To elevate the dish for a special occasion, top with toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil. A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon complements the freshness perfectly.

For some inspiration on side dishes, check out Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe or add a touch of spice with the Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe.

Conclusion

Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this chicken and veg pasta recipe is a fantastic addition to your meal rotation. It’s nourishing, flavorful, and adaptable to whatever ingredients you have on hand.

The blend of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta makes for a satisfying dish that everyone at the table will enjoy. Plus, with minimal prep and cooking time, it’s perfect for busy nights without sacrificing taste or nutrition.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables or herbs to make this recipe your own. And if you’re looking to explore more wholesome, delicious recipes, be sure to check out our Pcos Chicken Recipes collection for more inspiration.

Happy cooking!

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