Hey there! Today, I’m so excited to share one of my all-time favorite recipes: Chicken Pasta Primavera! I can still remember the first time I tried this dish—it was a warm summer evening, and I wanted something light yet filling. I stumbled upon a similar recipe in an old cookbook, and I just knew I had to give it a whirl. The colorful veggies, the tender chicken, and the perfectly cooked pasta made my taste buds do a happy dance!
What I love most about this recipe is how adaptable it is. You can mix and match the veggies depending on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients without anyone even noticing! So, let’s dive into how to make this delightful dish—it’s super simple and sure to impress!
What’s in Chicken Pasta Primavera?
Farfalle Pasta: Also known as bow-tie pasta, this shape is great for holding onto the sauce and all those yummy veggies. Feel free to use any pasta you love—even whole wheat for an extra health boost!
Olive Oil: This golden liquid isn’t just delicious; it’s also packed with heart-healthy fats. I love using extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast: Tender and juicy, this chicken is the star of the show. You can also swap it for turkey or even go meatless with chickpeas or tofu if you’d like!
Broccoli Florets: These little green gems not only add a nice crunch but are also packed with vitamins K and C.
Bell Peppers: I adore using a mix of colors for a pop of vibrancy! They add sweetness and vitamin C to our pasta party.
Asparagus: Trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces, asparagus gives a fresh taste and is rich in fiber—perfect for keeping you satisfied.
Shredded Carrots: Who doesn’t love a little sweetness? Carrots are not only great for your eyesight but also enhance the dish’s color.
Cherry Tomatoes: These juicy beauties burst with flavor and add a nice acidity that balances out the richness.
Garlic: My absolute favorite! Garlic brings a wonderful aroma to this dish, making every bite aromatic and delicious.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that elevates the dish without needing a whole herb garden. If I’m feeling fancy, I might toss in a little fresh oregano or thyme!
Fresh Basil: Nothing brightens a dish quite like fresh herbs. Basil adds a lovely aromatic touch at the end.
Parmesan Cheese: Just a sprinkle of this savory cheese brings all the flavors together. Grated fresh makes a noticeable difference!
Lemon Wedges: While completely optional, a little squeeze adds the perfect zing if you’re feeling extra zesty!
Is Chicken Pasta Primavera Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish is packed with colorful vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains (if you choose the right pasta). Each ingredient plays a role in making it both tasty and nutritious:
Chicken: Full of protein, chicken helps with muscle repair and keeps you feeling full longer.
Vegetables: Those vibrant veggies provide fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants to help protect your health.
Olive Oil: The healthy fats in olive oil can support heart health, making it a great choice for cooking.
However, just keep in mind that portion sizes are essential, especially with the cheese! A sprinkle goes a long way, and using a light hand can help keep it guilt-free.
What You’ll Need:
– 8 ounces farfalle pasta (or pasta of your choice)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup bell peppers (any color), diced
– 1 cup asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 cup carrots, shredded
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
– Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
This recipe serves about 4, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week!
How to Make Chicken Pasta Primavera?
1. Cook the farfalle pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the broccoli, bell peppers, asparagus, and shredded carrots. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
6. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side, if desired. Enjoy!
Pro Tips for Perfect Pasta Primavera!
– Feel free to add or substitute any veggies based on what you have on hand! Zucchini, spinach, or even snap peas would work beautifully.
– For a touch of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
– If you want to make this a bit more substantial, serve it over a bed of spinach or alongside a simple salad.
– Leftovers taste even better the next day! Just reheating in a skillet with a splash of water can revive the dish.
I truly hope you give this Chicken Pasta Primavera a try. It’s colorful, flavorful, and just the perfect dish for any occasion. And please, let me know how it turns out or if you make any fun tweaks of your own—I love hearing about your kitchen adventures! Enjoy cooking, and happy eating! 🍽️
