A delightful combination of tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta makes for a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. This Chicken and Pasta recipe is not only simple to prepare but also bursting with flavors from fresh ingredients like garlic, cherry tomatoes, and spinach. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends and family, this dish is sure to please every palate.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 420
- Protein: 32 grams
- Carbohydrates: 45 grams
- Fat: 14 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Sugar: 2 grams
- Sodium: 540 mg
Why Make This Chicken and Pasta
This Chicken and Pasta recipe stands out for its simplicity and taste. It’s an ideal choice for those busy weeknights when you want something wholesome without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of juicy, sautéed chicken with fresh vegetables and al dente pasta creates a dish that’s vibrant and full of nutrients. Plus, it’s easily customizable to suit your taste or incorporate what’s in your fridge!
How to Make Chicken and Pasta
Get your cooking gear ready! This Chicken and Pasta dish comes together in just a few easy steps, making it a breeze even for novice cooks. Follow along to learn just how simple it is.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of pasta (your choice)
- 1 pound of chicken breast, diced
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup of spinach
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Directions:
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Step 1: Cooking the Pasta
Cook pasta according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside. This will be the base of our dish, so choose your favorite pasta shape, whether it’s spaghetti, penne, or fusilli.
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Step 2: Sautéing the Garlic
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds, taking care not to let it burn. This will fill your kitchen with a wonderful aroma!
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Step 3: Cooking the Chicken
Add the diced chicken to the skillet. Cook until browned and cooked through, stirring frequently. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
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Step 4: Adding the Vegetables
Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, spinach, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until the spinach is wilted and the tomatoes are softened, about 2-3 minutes. This step adds vibrant colors and freshness to the dish.
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Step 5: Combining with Pasta
Toss the cooked pasta with the chicken and vegetable mixture until well combined. Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese for that final, delicious touch.
How to Serve Chicken and Pasta
Serve this Chicken and Pasta hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It’s perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers!
How to Store Chicken and Pasta
Leftover Chicken and Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm on the stovetop until heated through.
Expert Tips for Perfect Chicken and Pasta
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh ingredients make a significant difference in flavor. Opt for fresh spinach and high-quality olive oil.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: For the best texture, cook the pasta al dente; it will finish cooking when tossed with the hot chicken mixture.
- Add a Kick: Want some heat? Feel free to add red pepper flakes for a spicy twist!
Delicious Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with a can of chickpeas or more vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.
- Creamy Chicken Pasta: Add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese to the sauce for a creamy texture.
- Herb Options: Swap the Italian seasoning for fresh herbs like basil or parsley to change the flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even cooking.
- What other vegetables can I add? You can add bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli for more variety and nutrition.
- Can I make this dish in advance? Yes, you can cook everything ahead, but it’s best to store the pasta separately to avoid it becoming mushy.
- What type of pasta is best for this recipe? Any type of pasta works well; choose your favorite! Whole-wheat pasta adds extra fiber.
- How can I make this recipe gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all seasonings and ingredients are gluten-free certified.
Conclusion
This Chicken and Pasta recipe is a flavorful and versatile dish that embodies the comfort of home cooking. With its straightforward preparation and delicious taste, it’s no wonder this meal has become a favorite for many. So roll up your sleeves, grab your ingredients, and enjoy making this easy, satisfying recipe—your taste buds will thank you! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
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Chicken and Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Poultry
Description
A delightful combination of tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, bursting with flavors from fresh ingredients like garlic, cherry tomatoes, and spinach. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of pasta (your choice)
- 1 pound of chicken breast, diced
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup of spinach
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions, drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add diced chicken to the skillet, cook until browned and cooked through.
- Stir in halved cherry tomatoes, spinach, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, cooking until spinach is wilted and tomatoes softened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Toss the cooked pasta with the chicken and vegetable mixture until well combined and serve warm with grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Avoid overcooking the pasta for optimal texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
