Welcome to a delightful culinary journey with the famous Chicken and Vegetable Pasta recipe by Shireen Anwar. This dish perfectly blends tender chicken pieces with fresh, vibrant vegetables, all tossed in a flavorful sauce and served over perfectly cooked pasta.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a casual weeknight meal, this recipe brings warmth, nutrition, and comfort to your table. The colorful medley of veggies not only adds a burst of flavor but also a wholesome touch, making it a balanced and satisfying dish.
Shireen Anwar’s recipe is loved for its simplicity, yet it delivers layers of taste that will impress your guests and family alike. Ready in under an hour, this pasta is a wonderful way to sneak in some veggies while keeping the meal hearty and delicious.
Let’s dive into the details and get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chicken and Vegetable Pasta is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that cater to both busy cooks and food enthusiasts. Here’s why it stands out:
- Quick and easy: Perfect for busy weeknights without compromising on taste.
- Nutritious and balanced: Loaded with lean protein from chicken and plenty of fresh vegetables.
- Flexible and customizable: You can swap vegetables or add your favorite herbs and spices.
- Family-friendly: Mild yet flavorful, appealing to kids and adults alike.
Plus, it’s a great way to bring vibrant colors and natural goodness to your plate.
Ingredients
- 300 grams boneless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 250 grams pasta (penne or fusilli works best)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup tomato puree
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Colander for draining pasta
- Measuring spoons and cups
Instructions
- 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, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned.
- Add the vegetables: Toss in the red bell pepper, zucchini, broccoli, and carrot. Stir well and cook for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
- Prepare the sauce: Pour in the tomato puree and chicken broth. Add the dried oregano and basil. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together gently, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve hot: Plate the pasta immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Tips & Variations
For a creamier version, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese to the sauce just before combining with pasta.
- Swap chicken with turkey or tofu for a different protein source.
- Add chili flakes for a spicy kick or herbs like thyme and rosemary for an earthy aroma.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs.
- Incorporate other vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or peas for extra variety.
- For a richer sauce, stir in a tablespoon of butter at the end.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving (approx.) |
---|---|
Calories | 420 kcal |
Protein | 35 g |
Carbohydrates | 40 g |
Fat | 10 g |
Fiber | 5 g |
Sodium | 450 mg |
Vitamin A | 60% DV |
Vitamin C | 55% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette or a side of garlic bread for a comforting meal. For a lighter option, serve with roasted vegetables or steamed asparagus.
If you love exploring more recipes that bring freshness and variety to your table, check out these great options:
- Amazing Vegan Pasta Recipes for Easy Delicious Meals
- Chicken Veg Salad Recipe Easy and Healthy Meal Ideas
- Chicken and Roasted Veg Recipes for Easy Healthy Meals
Conclusion
The Chicken and Vegetable Pasta recipe by Shireen Anwar is a true crowd-pleaser that combines wholesome ingredients with simple cooking techniques to create a flavorful and nourishing dish. Its adaptability makes it perfect for any kitchen, whether you’re a novice or experienced cook.
The harmony of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta will satisfy your cravings and keep you coming back for more.
With this recipe, you don’t have to compromise on health or taste. Feel free to experiment with different veggies and herbs to make it your own.
For more inspiration on balanced meals, explore our extensive collection of vegetarian and vegan dishes like A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion or Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.
Happy cooking and bon appétit!
📖 Recipe Card: Chicken and Vegetable Pasta Recipe by Shireen Anwar
Description: A flavorful and healthy pasta dish combining tender chicken with fresh vegetables in a light sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT40M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 250g penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 boneless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Add onion and garlic; sauté until soft.
- Stir in bell pepper and zucchini; cook for 5 minutes.
- Add cherry tomatoes, oregano, chili flakes, salt, and pepper; cook for 3 minutes.
- Mix in cooked pasta and toss well to combine.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Nutrition: Calories: 420 kcal | Protein: 35 g | Fat: 12 g | Carbs: 45 g
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