Chicken Pasta Primavera is a colorful and tasty dish filled with fresh vegetables and tender chicken. It’s a perfect blend of flavors that will make your taste buds dance!
Cooking this dish feels like a party in the kitchen! I love how quick and easy it is to make—just toss everything together, and dinner is ready. Who doesn’t love a meal that looks as good as it tastes?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: Rotini’s twists help hold onto the sauce. You could try penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta if you prefer a healthier option.
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is easy to cook, but you can swap it for turkey or tofu for a vegetarian choice.
Vegetables: This recipe is flexible! Use whatever veggies you have. Asparagus, bell peppers, or even spinach work well. Get creative!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds flavor. If you want a milder taste, canola or avocado oil can substitute just fine.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the cheese!
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken can be tricky if you’re not careful. Here’s how to make sure it’s juicy and cooked perfectly:
- Start with chicken breasts that are even in thickness. If they’re thick on one side, pound them to an even thickness.
- Heat your pan over medium-high heat and add a little oil before placing the chicken.
- Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check; it should read 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to settle for a moist texture.
How to Make Chicken Pasta Primavera
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz rotini pasta
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
For the Vegetables:
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup yellow bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Toppings:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Pasta Primavera recipe takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes on prep, and 20 minutes on cooking everything together. Quick and yummy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. When it’s cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a little drizzle of olive oil. You can grill the chicken or pan-sear it over medium-high heat. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until it’s cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once done, take the chicken off the heat, let it rest for a few minutes, and then slice it into strips.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, add the remaining olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and, if you’re using it, the red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds until you smell the garlic’s nice aroma. Now, toss in the zucchini, broccoli, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper. Sauté the veggies for about 5-7 minutes, stirring often until they’re tender but still bright and colorful.
4. Combine Everything:
Next, add the cooked rotini pasta to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and toss everything together until well combined and heated through. Taste it and add more salt or pepper if it needs it—seasoning is important!
5. Serve and Garnish:
To serve, dish the pasta into bowls and top with the sliced chicken. Finally, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a burst of flavor and color. Enjoy your lovely Chicken Pasta Primavera!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute rotini with any other pasta shape such as penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package directions for the type of pasta you choose.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to personalize your Chicken Pasta Primavera by adding vegetables like asparagus, spinach, or carrots. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times as needed so everything remains tender yet crisp.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil to keep it from drying out.
What If I Don’t Have Parmesan Cheese?
No worries! If you’re out of Parmesan, you can use Pecorino Romano, Grana Padano, or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Adjust the amount according to your taste preference!
