Chicken Pasta Primavera is a colorful dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh veggies, and pasta all in one bowl. It’s like a garden party on your plate!
With simple ingredients like bell peppers and zucchini, this dish is a cheerful way to enjoy healthy eating. I love making it when I want something light and tasty—perfect for busy days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: Rotini is a great choice for holding onto the sauce and flavors. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using quinoa pasta or zucchini noodles for a lighter dish.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well, but you can substitute with turkey breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Shredded rotisserie chicken is a handy shortcut too!
Bell Pepper: I love using a colorful bell pepper for both flavor and presentation. If you can’t find one, swap it for any other bell pepper color, or go for sliced carrots or snap peas for a different crunch.
Garlic: Fresh garlic delivers the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can stand in. Just remember to use less, about 1/8 teaspoon, since it’s more concentrated.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a lovely salty richness. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast can be sprinkled on instead for a cheesy flavor.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken so it’s juicy and golden can feel tricky. Here’s how to make it straightforward:
- Start with chicken at room temperature; it cooks more evenly.
- Season generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to boost flavor.
- Heat the olive oil until shimmering before adding chicken. This prevents sticking.
- Cook on medium heat, giving it time to develop a golden crust, about 6-7 minutes on each side.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure it hits 165°F for safety.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
How to Make Chicken Pasta Primavera
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Chicken:
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Vegetables:
- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasoning and Cheese:
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Pasta Primavera will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping your ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking everything together. Pretty quick and so tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the rotini pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package directions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Once it’s done, drain it in a colander and set it aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
While your pasta is cooking, take out a large skillet and heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with some salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Then, remove it from the skillet and let it rest before slicing it into thin strips.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until it smells amazing. Next, add the diced bell pepper, sliced zucchini, broccoli florets, and halved cherry tomatoes. Sauté the veggies for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender but still have a nice crisp to them.
4. Combine Everything:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Toss everything together to combine nicely. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it’s well mixed and heated through.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out your pasta primavera on plates or into bowls. Top it with the sliced chicken, an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and a few fresh basil leaves for a lovely finish. Dig in and enjoy your hearty meal!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead of Rotini?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great alternative and adds a nutty flavor along with extra fiber. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as whole wheat pasta may take a bit longer to reach al dente.
Can I Substitute the Chicken with Tofu or a Vegetarian Option?
Yes, you can easily swap the chicken for tofu, tempeh, or your favorite plant-based protein. If using tofu, press it to remove extra moisture, then sauté it until golden brown before adding it to the dish. This will give it a nice texture!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth in a pan and stir over low heat until warmed through. This helps to bring back moisture and keeps the pasta from drying out.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies like asparagus, spinach, or snap peas. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the vegetables you choose to ensure everything is cooked perfectly!
