Chicken and Vegetable Pasta Recipes for Easy Weeknight Meal

There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of chicken and vegetable pasta to brighten your day and satisfy your hunger. This recipe combines tender pieces of chicken with a colorful medley of fresh vegetables, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and a light, flavorful sauce.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving a wholesome dinner, this dish offers a delightful balance of protein, fiber, and vibrant tastes. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can swap in your favorite veggies or adjust the seasoning to suit your palate.

In this post, we’ll walk you through every step of making this delicious chicken and vegetable pasta, from the ingredients and equipment you need to handy tips and serving suggestions. Ready to bring some Italian-inspired comfort to your kitchen?

Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chicken and vegetable pasta recipe hits all the right notes. It’s nutritious, satisfying, and easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

The combination of lean chicken breast with a colorful mix of bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes ensures you get a variety of vitamins and minerals in every bite.

Another great thing about this dish is its flexibility. You can easily customize the vegetables to what’s in season or what you have on hand.

The pasta cooks quickly, and the entire meal comes together in under 40 minutes, making it a perfect option for anyone looking for a healthy yet tasty dinner fast.

For those interested in exploring more vibrant, vegetable-packed meals, check out our Vegan Slow Cooker Recipe for Easy, Delicious Meals or try the Vegan Flour Tortilla Recipe Easy, Soft, and Homemade for a completely different but equally delightful culinary adventure.

Ingredients

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Colander for draining pasta
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Grater (if using fresh Parmesan)

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it 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.
2. Prepare the chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and half the Italian seasoning, then sauté for about 6-8 minutes until cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the sliced bell peppers and zucchini, cooking for 4-5 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp. Then add the cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes until they begin to soften.
4. Combine everything: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Sprinkle the remaining Italian seasoning, and toss everything together. Add the cooked pasta and gently mix. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
5. Final touches: Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Remove from heat, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and garnish with chopped fresh basil.
6. Serve immediately: Plate the pasta warm and enjoy with your favorite side or a simple green salad.

Tips & Variations

“For a creamier sauce, stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking.”

To add more depth of flavor, marinate the chicken briefly in olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic before cooking. You can also swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu to make a different protein version.

If you love spicy dishes, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. For a gluten-free option, substitute the pasta with gluten-free varieties or try spiralized zucchini noodles.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or asparagus. For inspiration on vegetable-forward meals, explore our Veg Maharashtrian Recipes: Easy & Delicious Meals for colorful, flavorful ideas.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This chicken and vegetable pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or a side of garlic bread for a classic Italian experience. For a lighter option, serve with steamed broccoli or roasted Brussels sprouts.

If you’re hosting a dinner party, consider offering a refreshing glass of chilled white wine or a sparkling water with lemon to complement the meal’s vibrant flavors.

To keep things interesting, try pairing this dish with recipes like our Shrimp and Veggie Pasta Recipe for a Quick Healthy Meal or even the Baked Chicken Thigh with Vegetable Recipes for Easy Dinner for alternative protein and vegetable combinations.

Conclusion

This chicken and vegetable pasta recipe is a perfect blend of wholesome ingredients, vibrant flavors, and straightforward cooking techniques. It’s a dish that suits all occasions—whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or preparing a comforting meal for family and friends.

With its flexibility and nutritional benefits, you can easily customize it to your liking while still enjoying a balanced and satisfying meal. Plus, the fresh vegetables and lean protein create a colorful, delicious plate that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Don’t forget to explore other delicious recipes on our site, such as the Veggie Quesadilla Recipe Indian Style Easy & Delicious for a fun twist on veggies or the Vegan Halloween Dessert Recipes That Will Wow Your Guests to finish your meal with a sweet touch.

Happy cooking!

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