Chicken Pasta Primavera

There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of Chicken Pasta Primavera. I remember the first time I tried it at a cozy little restaurant downtown. The aroma of fresh vegetables and the creamy sauce danced in the air as I took my seat. Each bite was a delightful explosion of flavors, making me feel like I was indulging in a warm hug. Since that day, it’s become one of my go-to recipes for family gatherings and even quiet nights at home. The vibrant colors of the vegetables make this dish not just a feast for the palate but also for the eyes. As spring approaches, I can’t help but turn to this recipe, celebrating the freshness of the season with every forkful.

What’s In This Chicken Pasta Primavera

When it comes to the ingredients of Chicken Pasta Primavera, simplicity is key. Each ingredient plays a vital role, working harmoniously to create a dish that is both delicious and satisfying. The chicken adds protein, while the fresh vegetables provide crunch and flavor. The creamy sauce ties everything together, making each bite a delightful experience.

• 3 tablespoons (42g) unsalted butter: This rich butter serves as the base for the creamy sauce, adding depth and flavor.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic brings an aromatic punch, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream: The star of the sauce, it creates a luscious texture that coats the pasta and vegetables perfectly.
• ½ cup shredded parmesan: Adds a salty, nutty flavor, enriching the creamy sauce.
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: A simple seasoning that brings warmth and complexity to the dish.
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil: Used for cooking the chicken, it adds richness while keeping the meat tender.
• 1 pound (450g) chicken breast, diced into 1-inch pieces: Provides protein and heartiness, making the dish filling.
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning: A mix of herbs that infuses the dish with classic Mediterranean flavors.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients.
• 8 ounces (225g) dried pasta, any shape: The foundation of the dish, serving as a vehicle for all the other ingredients.
• 3-4 cups fresh prepped vegetables: Such as chopped asparagus, sliced zucchini, bell pepper, chopped broccoli, thinly sliced red onion, fresh or frozen peas, halved cherry tomatoes. These add color, texture, and nutritional value to the meal.

The Method for Chicken Pasta Primavera

Cooking Chicken Pasta Primavera is a delightful venture that anyone can master. Each step is straightforward, allowing you to enjoy the process as much as the result. Let’s dive into the method of bringing this flavorful dish to life!

1. Make the cream sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Once melted, add garlic and cook for about one minute, just until it becomes fragrant. Next, pour in the heavy cream and add parmesan. Whisk the mixture together for one to two minutes until you achieve a homogeneous sauce. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Cook the chicken: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and season immediately with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook the chicken until it is fully cooked, which should take about four minutes. Once done, remove the chicken onto a plate and set aside.

3. Meanwhile, cook the pasta: In a pot of boiling salted water, add the dried pasta. Cook according to the package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve a cup of the starchy pasta water to use later if needed.

4. Prep the vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, return to the skillet or Dutch oven. Add another tablespoon of olive oil if necessary and toss in the prepared fresh vegetables. Cook these for about five minutes, stirring occasionally. If you’re using them, add cherry tomatoes in the last thirty seconds of cooking to keep them fresh.

5. Combine everything: Once the vegetables are tender, add the drained pasta to the skillet along with the cream sauce. If you need to thin the sauce, pour in some of the reserved pasta water. Gently toss everything together until well combined. Finally, add the cooked chicken back into the pan and toss again to ensure everything is coated in the creamy goodness. Remove from heat and serve immediately.

Ways to Customize

One of the beautiful things about Chicken Pasta Primavera is its adaptability. You can easily tweak it to match your preferences or the ingredients you have on hand. Here are some great ideas:

• Use a variety of vegetables: Feel free to swap out the veggies based on what you have in the fridge. Broccoli, corn, or even spinach can work wonders.
• Add spices: For a bit of a kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne to the sauce.
• Make it vegetarian: Simply skip the chicken and amp up the vegetables for a delicious meat-free meal.
• Experiment with pasta shapes: While any pasta works, try using whole wheat or gluten-free options for a healthier twist.
• Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley just before serving adds a lovely freshness.
• Cheese variations: Explore using different types of cheese like feta or goat cheese for a distinct flavor profile.
• Make it richer: Stir in a bit of cream cheese into the sauce for extra creaminess.

Accompaniments for Chicken Pasta Primavera

When serving Chicken Pasta Primavera, consider these delightful options to enhance your meal:

• Garlic bread: A crunchy side that’s perfect for scooping up any extra sauce.
• Caesar salad: This classic salad complements the dish with its creamy dressing and crisp lettuce.
• Grilled chicken: If you want to add more protein, grilled chicken breast on the side works beautifully.
• Wine pairing: For a special occasion, a light white wine can elevate the dining experience.
• Seasonal fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad can serve as a perfect palate cleanser after the rich pasta.
• Roasted vegetables: Additional roasted veggies can round out the meal and add health benefits.
• Stuffed mushrooms: These tasty bites can serve as an excellent appetizer before diving into your pasta.

FAQ

Conclusion

Chicken Pasta Primavera is truly a delightful dish that captures the essence of spring with its fresh ingredients and creamy flavor. The vibrant colors and hearty chicken make it a favorite in my kitchen. I encourage you to try your hand at this recipe, whether for a family gathering or a cozy night in. You won’t regret diving into this delicious pasta dish!

Chicken Pasta Primavera

Indulge in the creamy goodness of Chicken Pasta Primavera, packed with vibrant vegetables and tender chicken. This easy weeknight dinner is bursting with flavor and fresh ingredients, making it a dish you'll crave again and again. Perfect for a family meal, you'll want to make this tonight!

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 600

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 3 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
• 3 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 cup Heavy Cream
• ½ cup Shredded Parmesan
• ¼ teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
• 1 pound Chicken Breast, diced into 1 inch pieces
• ½ teaspoon Italian Seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon Salt
• ¼ teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
• 8 ounces Dried Pasta, any shape
• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
• 3-4 cups Fresh Prepped Vegetables such as chopped asparagus, sliced zucchini, bell pepper, chopped broccoli, thinly sliced red onion, fresh or frozen peas, halved cherry tomatoes
• ½ teaspoon Salt
• ¼ teaspoon Ground Black Pepper

Equipment

• Saucepan
• Dutch oven or skillet

Method

 

1. Make the cream sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Once melted, add garlic and cook for about one minute, just until it becomes fragrant. Next, pour in the heavy cream and add parmesan. Whisk the mixture together for one to two minutes until you achieve a homogeneous sauce. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Cook the chicken: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and season immediately with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook the chicken until it is fully cooked, which should take about four minutes. Once done, remove the chicken onto a plate and set aside.
3. Meanwhile, cook the pasta: In a pot of boiling salted water, add the dried pasta. Cook according to the package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve a cup of the starchy pasta water to use later if needed.
4. Prep the vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, return to the skillet or Dutch oven. Add another tablespoon of olive oil if necessary and toss in the prepared fresh vegetables. Cook these for about five minutes, stirring occasionally. If you’re using them, add cherry tomatoes in the last thirty seconds of cooking to keep them fresh.
5. Combine everything: Once the vegetables are tender, add the drained pasta to the skillet along with the cream sauce. If you need to thin the sauce, pour in some of the reserved pasta water. Gently toss everything together until well combined. Finally, add the cooked chicken back into the pan and toss again to ensure everything is coated in the creamy goodness. Remove from heat and serve immediately.

Notes

• Take a shortcut: Instead of cooking chicken, add in shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken instead!
• Cutting the vegetables: When prepping, you want to take care that the veggies are cut into bite-sized pieces that will cook fairly quickly. Thin slices and small pieces are ideal.
• Make substitutions: You need 3-4 cups of fresh sliced vegetables for this recipe, so feel free to fill those cups however you like! If your family loves broccoli but dislikes asparagus (or vice versa) you can make that happen. You can also add things, like corn kernels, mushrooms, or grated carrots.
• Try with extra garlic or spice: If you really enjoy garlic, feel free to increase it to 4 cloves instead of just 3. A pinch of crushed red pepper is also a tasty way to add some spicy flavor.
• Use the pasta water: Before you drain the pasta, pull out a cup or so of the starchy cooking water and set it aside. You may or may not need it to thin out the parmesan cream sauce when you’re putting the dish together.
• Season to taste: Parmesan cheese can be quite salty, so you may not need to add any salt to the sauce. Taste it and adjust the seasonings as needed.
• Store leftovers: in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

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Meet Violet Lane

The Creative Spark I see the kitchen as my art studio. I love experimenting with colors and textures, and I’m usually the one asking, “What if we added this?” I encourage the team to take risks and try new flavor combinations. I love the energy of cooking with six other people it’s chaotic, colorful, and inspiring. I’m hands-on with the cooking and styling, always trying to make our plates look as artistic as they taste.