Indulge in a plate of Creamy Chicken & Veggie Pasta Delight, a delightful one-pan meal that combines juicy diced chicken, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta, all enveloped in a luscious garlic herb cream sauce. This recipe is not only comforting but also customizable, allowing you to enjoy seasonal vegetables and find the right balance of flavors according to your palate.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This dish is a perfect mix of creaminess and savory flavors, all while being quite simple to prepare. The combination of chicken and colorful veggies with a creamy garlic herb sauce ensures that each bite is satisfying. Plus, being a one-pan dish means less cleanup! It’s ideal for busy weeknights when you want to whip up something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Pro Tips for Making Creamy Chicken & Veggie Pasta Delight
- For an extra creamy texture, consider using a mix of heavy cream and goat cheese, which adds a tangy flavor to the sauce.
- To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the pasta with gluten-free penne or fusilli.
- Experiment with different vegetables according to the season, such as asparagus or spinach for a refreshing twist.
- Adjust the level of garlic to suit your taste; roasting the garlic can provide a milder, sweeter flavor.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick if you prefer a bit of heat.
Ingredients
Below are the fresh ingredients required to create this indulgent dish:
-
For the Pasta:
6 oz (170g) penne or fusilli pasta
Salt for boiling water -
For the Chicken & Veggies:
1 large chicken breast, diced
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
½ tsp paprika
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 cup broccoli florets
½ cup diced red bell pepper
½ cup diced zucchini (or mushrooms) -
For the Creamy Sauce:
1 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ tsp dried thyme or oregano
¾ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
¼ cup chicken broth (optional for thinning)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Creamy Chicken & Veggie Pasta Delight:
- Step 1: Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the diced chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Sauté until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, approximately 6–8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Step 3: In the same skillet, if necessary, add a splash of olive oil. Sauté the broccoli, bell pepper, and zucchini until slightly tender, about 4–5 minutes. Remove the vegetables and set aside with the chicken.
- Step 4: Melt the butter in the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and dried herbs, cooking until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water as needed. Let it simmer until slightly thickened, 2–3 minutes.
- Step 5: Return the cooked chicken and veggies to the skillet. Toss in the drained pasta, stirring everything together over low heat until well combined and coated with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! This recipe works well with various types of pasta like fettuccine or whole wheat varieties.
2. How can I make this dish healthier?
Substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or use low-fat cheese options. You can also add more vegetables for added nutrients.
3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and veggies ahead of time, or even cook the entire dish. Store it in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.
4. What else can I add to the sauce?
Consider adding white wine for added depth of flavor or fresh herbs like basil for a brighter taste.
5. Is it safe to freeze this dish?
While the dish can be frozen, it is best enjoyed fresh as the cream sauce may not thaw well. If freezing, do so without the cream sauce and add it when reheating.
Conclusion
Creamy Chicken & Veggie Pasta Delight is a wonderful dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also rich in flavor and nutrition. Its versatility allows it to be tailored to your preferences, whether you’re looking for something creamy or with a bit of a crunch. Enjoy this comforting and hearty meal any night of the week!