Chicken Pasta Primavera is a colorful dish filled with tender chicken and fresh veggies tossed with pasta. It’s like a garden party on your plate!
This meal is simple to whip up and perfect for those nights you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. I love adding a sprinkle of cheese on top—it makes everything better!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This spiral pasta holds onto sauces beautifully. You can swap with other shapes like penne or fusilli, but keep it whole grain for added nutrition!
Chicken Breast: I recommend boneless and skinless for easy cooking. If you prefer, use turkey for a leaner option, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist!
Olive Oil: It’s flavorful and healthy. If you’re out, avocado oil works too, as it’s great for high heat. I like to use extra virgin olive oil for its fresh taste.
Vegetables: Zucchini and bell peppers are stars here! You can easily replace broccoli with asparagus or green beans for variety. Throw in some spinach for extra nutrients!
Parmesan Cheese: It’s yummy for finishing the dish. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the milk.
How Do I Cook Chicken Perfectly?
Getting that chicken just right can be tricky. Here’s a simple way to ensure it’s juicy and full of flavor:
- Make sure to season well with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs — this adds a lot of flavor!
- Heat your skillet to medium-high to get a nice browning. Check that it’s hot enough by splashing a drop of water; it should sizzle.
- Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, and always let the chicken rest after cooking for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps the juices in.
How to Make Chicken Pasta Primavera?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta and Chicken:
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, boneless and skinless
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
For the Vegetables:
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Chicken Pasta Primavera will take about 30 minutes to make. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and 20 minutes cooking. It’s a quick and delightful meal that you can enjoy any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add the rotini pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Place the seasoned chicken in the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until it’s cooked through and golden brown. Once cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few moments before slicing it into pieces.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and let it sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Next, add the diced zucchini, red bell pepper, and broccoli. Cook these colorful veggies for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are slightly tender but still have some crunch.
4. Combine Everything:
Now it’s time to mix everything together! Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and let it all cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to your liking.
5. Serve:
Slice the rested chicken breast and lay it atop your delicious pasta primavera. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the dish and add fresh basil for a beautiful touch, if you desire. Serve warm and enjoy every bite!
Can I Substitute the Chicken with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even grilled sausage for a different flavor. If using shrimp, cook them for about 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. For tofu, sauté until golden brown before adding the vegetables.
What Other Vegetables Can I Use?
Feel free to mix and match vegetables based on what you have on hand! Great options include asparagus, spinach, bell peppers of any color, or snap peas. Just remember to adjust cooking times so the veggies remain crisp and colorful.
How to Store Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if the pasta seems dry when reheating.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables, or include protein-rich options like chickpeas or white beans for a hearty meal. Sauté the beans toward the end to warm them through without making them mushy.
