Chicken Pasta Primavera: Hearty & Flavorful Dish in Under 1 Hour
Looking for a wholesome and delicious dinner idea that’s easy to make? Chicken Pasta Primavera is a perfect choice! Combining tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and your favorite pasta, this dish brings together nutrition, flavor, and versatility in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, Chicken Pasta Primavera is a satisfying option that everyone will love.
Table of Contents
What Is Chicken Pasta Primavera?
Chicken Pasta Primavera is a variation of the classic Pasta Primavera with chicken. Adding chicken turns this light pasta dish into a hearty and well-rounded meal.
Although inspired by Italian cuisine, Chicken Pasta Primavera is an American creation, popularized in the 1970s. It’s loved for its adaptability, quick preparation, and ability to highlight fresh, flavorful ingredients.
Why Chicken Pasta Primavera Is a Crowd-Pleaser
- Balanced Nutrition: Packed with protein from chicken and nutrients from vegetables.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Great for Meal Prep: Stores well and can be reheated for lunches or dinners throughout the week.
- Customizable: Feel free to choose your preferred vegetables, seasonings, or pasta.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you need to whip up a tasty Chicken Pasta Primavera:
Protein:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cubed or sliced thinly.
Vegetables:
- Bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange)
- Zucchini or yellow squash
- Broccoli florets
- Cherry tomatoes
- Carrots (julienned)
Pasta and Sauce:
- Your choice of pasta (penne, spaghetti, or fettuccine work well)
- Olive oil or butter for sautéing
- Garlic (minced)
- Cream, milk, or chicken broth (for a creamy or light sauce)
- Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
Seasonings:
- Salt and black pepper
- Italian seasoning or fresh basil
- A splash of lemon juice for brightness (optional)
Step-by-Step Recipe for Chicken Pasta Primavera
Chicken Pasta Primavera
Equipment
- Large pot
- skillet
- knife
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta your choice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups mixed vegetables bell peppers, broccoli, zucchini, cherry tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ cup chicken broth or cream optional
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese optional
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a rolling boil. Carefully add the pasta and cook it until al dente, following the package instructions. Before draining, set aside ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat up a big skillet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season them with pepper, salt, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, turning them occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked. Once the chicken is cooked through, carefully remove it from the skillet using tongs and set it aside on a plate.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, pour in the rest of the olive oil. Toss in the broccoli, bell peppers, and zucchini. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies are tender yet still crisp. Next, add minced garlic and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, or until the tomatoes begin to soften.
- Combine and Simmer: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in the reserved pasta water and chicken broth or cream, allowing the flavors to meld for 2-3 minutes.
- Toss with Pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and mix well until coated in the sauce. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve and Garnish: Plate the Chicken Pasta Primavera, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Calories: Estimated per serving, based on typical ingredients and portion sizes.
- Cost: ($12–$18) Approximate cost is based on U.S. grocery prices for fresh ingredients.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Pasta Primavera
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and good-quality chicken make a noticeable difference.
- Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: Keep them slightly crisp for the best texture and flavor.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Mushrooms, asparagus, or spinach make excellent additions.
- Lighten It Up: Skip the cream and use chicken broth or olive oil for a lighter sauce.
Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Pasta Primavera
This dish is not only tasty, but it also offers a variety of health benefits.
- Lean Protein: Chicken is a great source of essential protein that supports muscle growth and repair.
- Balanced Carbs: Whole-grain pasta adds fiber and sustains energy levels.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, and peppers are loaded with vitamins A, C, and K.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make Chicken Pasta Primavera Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta made from rice, quinoa, or chickpeas.
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover grilled chicken or Rotisserie chicken is an excellent choice.
What’s the Best Pasta for Primavera?
Penne, spaghetti, and fettuccine are classics, but any pasta will work. Choose what you enjoy most!
Is this recipe suited for alkaline diet?
The Chicken Pasta Primavera recipe is not fully suited for an alkaline diet. The main reason is that this recipe includes several ingredients that are considered acidic or acid-forming under alkaline diet principles.
For more inspiration and fully alkaline-friendly recipes, check out our guide on Ultimate Dinner Ideas For Alkaline Diet: A Complete Guide With 5 Delicious Recipes.
Can this recipe be adapted for an alkaline diet?
You can easily adapt it by:
Base: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
Protein: Use marinated tofu, tempeh, or legumes like lentils or chickpeas.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Broth: Use vegetable broth or water instead of chicken broth.
Conclusion
Chicken Pasta Primavera is a fantastic option for anyone seeking a quick, balanced, and flavorful meal. Packed with protein and colorful vegetables, it’s a dish that’s as nutritious as it is satisfying. Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or casual gatherings, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Try it today, and let us know your favorite twists or add-ins in the comments below. Happy cooking!
