Hey there! I’m Anna, and I’m all about making everyday cooking feel joyful and, honestly, super simple. You know how sometimes you just crave a meal that’s packed with flavor, looks absolutely gorgeous, and doesn’t take forever to make? That’s exactly where my love for dishes like Chicken Pasta Primavera comes in! This recipe is a total game-changer for busy weeknights. It’s so bright and colorful, bursting with fresh veggies and tender chicken, all tossed with pasta in this light, zesty dressing. Seriously, it’s the kind of meal that makes you feel good about what you’re eating without sacrificing any of that deliciousness we all crave. Get ready to fall in love with easy, healthy chicken dinners all over again!
Table Of content
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Pasta Primavera
Seriously, this Chicken Pasta Primavera is a winner for so many reasons! It’s one of those super versatile recipes that just works, no matter what. You get amazing fresh flavor without all the fuss. Plus, it’s a fantastic easy chicken recipe that’s perfect for when you’re short on time but still want something wholesome and delicious on the table.
Quick and Effortless Preparation
This recipe is honestly a lifesaver for busy weeknights. We’re talking minimal prep and active cooking time, so you can get a fantastic, wholesome meal on the table in under an hour. It’s designed to be straightforward, letting you enjoy more time with your family and less time stressing in the kitchen.
Bursting with Freshness
Just look at all those colors! This dish is loaded with a rainbow of fresh vegetables – think crisp broccoli, sweet bell peppers, tender squash, and juicy tomatoes. The combination with zesty lemon and fragrant herbs really makes all those vibrant flavors pop. It’s like a little burst of sunshine on your plate!
A Healthy and Satisfying Meal
What I love is how balanced this meal is. You’ve got lean protein from the chicken, tons of vitamins and fiber from all those gorgeous veggies, and satisfying pasta to round everything out. It’s filling without being heavy, making it absolutely perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner that everyone will enjoy.
Gather Your Ingredients for Chicken Pasta Primavera
Alright, let’s get our mise en place ready for this amazing Chicken Pasta Primavera! Having everything prepped and measured makes the actual cooking so much smoother. I’ve laid out exactly what you’ll need, and trust me, using fresh ingredients really makes all the difference here. That bright lemon juice, fragrant parsley, and those gorgeous, crisp veggies? They’re the stars of the show! So grab your apron, and let’s get these goodies ready to go.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 1 lb | cut into 1-inch cubes |
| Dry Barilla Penne Pasta | 10 oz. | |
| Salt and black pepper | to taste | |
| Olive oil | 1/4 cup | |
| Red onion | 1/2 medium | sliced |
| Carrot | 1 large | peeled and sliced into matchsticks |
| Broccoli florets | 2 cups | cut into matchsticks |
| Red bell pepper | 1 medium | sliced into matchsticks |
| Yellow squash | 1 medium | sliced into quarter portions |
| Zucchini | 1 medium | sliced into quarter portions |
| Garlic cloves | 3 – 4 | minced |
| Grape tomatoes | 1 cup (heaping) | halved through the length |
| Dried Italian seasoning | 2 tsp | |
| Pasta water | 1/2 cup | reserved from cooking pasta |
| Fresh lemon juice | 2 Tbsp | |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup, divided | shredded |
| Fresh parsley | 2 Tbsp | chopped |
Crafting Your Chicken Pasta Primavera: Step-by-Step
Now for the fun part – bringing all those beautiful ingredients together! This is where the magic happens, and honestly, it’s surprisingly quick. Just follow along, and you’ll have a stunning Chicken Pasta Primavera on your table before you know it. Don’t worry about perfection; the goal is deliciousness and a little bit of kitchen joy!
Prepare the Pasta and Chicken
First things first, let’s get that pasta going. Grab a big pot, fill it with water, add a good pinch of salt (like a tablespoon, maybe?), and bring it to a rolling boil. Toss in your penne and cook it according to the package directions until it’s nice and al dente. Before you drain it, scoop out about half a cup of that starchy pasta water – this stuff is liquid gold for your sauce! Now, while the pasta is doing its thing, let’s prep the chicken. Pat those chicken cubes dry with a paper towel and give them a good sprinkle of salt and pepper. Heat up your olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s nice and shimmery, carefully add the chicken. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring now and then, until it’s golden brown and cooked all the way through. Don’t overcrowd the pan; you might need to do this in batches. Scoop the cooked chicken out and set it aside for a moment.
Sauté the Vibrant Vegetables
Into the same skillet (no need to wash it!), add your sliced red onion and carrot matchsticks. Give them a sauté for about 2 minutes until they start to soften just a bit. Next, toss in the broccoli florets and red bell pepper matchsticks. Let those cook for another couple of minutes. Now, add the yellow squash and zucchini pieces. Keep sautéing for another 2-3 minutes. We want the veggies to be tender-crisp, not mushy! Finally, stir in your minced garlic, the halved grape tomatoes, and the dried Italian seasoning. Sauté for just 2 more minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the tomatoes start to soften a little. You’re building layers of flavor here, and it smells amazing!
Combine and Finish the Chicken Pasta Primavera
Okay, time to bring it all together! Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with all those gorgeous veggies and give everything a good toss. Now, you can either dump this chicken and veggie mixture right into your empty pasta pot (if it’s big enough!) or transfer it into a large serving bowl. Add your drained penne pasta to the pot or bowl. Drizzle everything with that fresh lemon juice – it really brightens things up! You might want to add a little more salt, depending on your taste. Now, start tossing everything together, and gradually add in that reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you get a nice, light sauce that coats everything beautifully. Don’t use it all if you don’t need it! Finally, toss in about a quarter cup of the shredded Parmesan cheese and all that chopped fresh parsley. Give it one last gentle toss to combine. Serve this glorious Chicken Pasta Primavera immediately, with the remaining Parmesan sprinkled right on top!
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions for Chicken Pasta Primavera
This Chicken Pasta Primavera is super flexible, and that’s part of what makes it so great! Don’t feel like you have to stick to the exact list if something isn’t in your fridge or if you have other veggies you want to use up. The goal is always to make cooking enjoyable and accessible!
Vegetable Flexibility
The “Primavera” in the name just means “spring,” but honestly, any colorful, seasonal veggies work beautifully here! Feel free to toss in some asparagus spears, snap peas, green beans, or even some corn kernels. Just make sure to cut them into similar bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly with the other vegetables. It’s all about making it your own!
Herb and Seasoning Variations
While the dried Italian seasoning is fantastic and super convenient, you can totally switch it up! If you have fresh herbs like basil or oregano, chop them up and add them in with the parsley at the end. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice little kick if you like a bit of heat. And don’t be afraid to adjust the garlic or lemon juice to your personal taste – that’s the beauty of cooking at home!
Tips for Perfect Chicken Pasta Primavera
Want to make your Chicken Pasta Primavera absolutely sing? A few little tricks can really elevate this dish from good to totally amazing. It’s all about paying attention to a couple of key details that make a big difference in texture and flavor. Let’s make sure yours turns out perfectly!
Achieving the Right Vegetable Texture
The secret to gorgeous veggies in your pasta is to cook them in stages. Start with the firmer ones like carrots and onions, then add the slightly softer ones like broccoli and peppers, and finally the quick-cooking ones like squash and zucchini. This way, you get tender-crisp veggies, not a mushy mess. It makes all the difference!
The Role of Pasta Water
Don’t skip reserving that pasta water! It’s starchy and salty, and when you add it to the dish, it helps create a luscious, light sauce that coats every piece of pasta and vegetable beautifully. It’s like magic in a pot, helping everything come together without needing heavy cream.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Pasta Primavera
This vibrant Chicken Pasta Primavera is practically a complete meal on its own, but a few simple additions can make it even more special. It’s all about keeping things fresh and light to complement those beautiful flavors.
Light and Fresh Pairings
A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette or a piece of warm, crusty bread for sopping up any extra sauce is just perfect. These additions won’t overpower the delicate flavors of the pasta dish.
Presentation Ideas
To make your Chicken Pasta Primavera look as good as it tastes, a generous sprinkle of extra fresh parsley and a final dusting of shredded Parmesan cheese right before serving is a must. It adds a pop of color and extra flavor!
Storing and Reheating Your Chicken Pasta Primavera
Leftover Chicken Pasta Primavera is still super delicious, but you want to store and reheat it properly to keep it tasting its best. Honestly, this dish holds up really well, which is another reason I love it for meal prep!
| Storage Method | Reheating Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerate in an airtight container | Gentle reheating on stovetop or microwave | Best consumed within 2-3 days |
| Add a splash of water or broth if dry | Avoid overheating |
Frequently Asked Questions about Chicken Pasta Primavera
Can I make Chicken Pasta Primavera ahead of time?
You can totally prep some components ahead of time, like chopping all your veggies or cooking the chicken. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a tiny splash of water if it seems dry.
What kind of pasta works best for Chicken Pasta Primavera?
Penne is fantastic because its ridges and tube shape really hold onto that light sauce and all the little bits of veggies and chicken. But honestly, any short pasta shape like rotini, farfalle (bow-ties), or even fusilli would be just as delicious! Just aim for something that can scoop up all the goodness.
Is this Chicken Pasta Primavera recipe adaptable for dietary needs?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free version, just skip the Parmesan cheese. You could also try using a plant-based alternative if you like. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, simply leave out the chicken and maybe add some extra beans or tofu for protein. It’s super adaptable!
Why is my Chicken Pasta Primavera watery?
Usually, this happens if you add too much pasta water at the end. Start with just a little bit and add more only if needed to create that light coating. Also, make sure your vegetables aren’t releasing too much moisture; sautéing them until they’re tender-crisp, not soggy, helps a lot!
Estimated Nutritional Information for Chicken Pasta Primavera
Just a heads-up, these numbers are estimates and can change a bit based on your exact ingredients and portion sizes. But this gives you a good idea of what you’re working with for a serving of this delicious Chicken Pasta Primavera. It’s a pretty well-balanced meal, which is always a win in my book!
| Nutrient | Approximate Value |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | 1 serving |
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Unsaturated Fat | 13g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Fiber | 6g |
| Sugar | 8g |
| Protein | 30g |
| Sodium | 400mg |
| Cholesterol | 70mg |
For more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration, check out our Pinterest page!
Print
Amazing Chicken Pasta Primavera: Fresh & Fast Dinner
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Chicken Pasta Primavera is a vibrant and flavorful dish packed with fresh vegetables and tender chicken, tossed with penne pasta and a light lemon dressing. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that’s both healthy and delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 10 oz. dry Barilla Penne Pasta
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 medium red onion, sliced
- 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced into matchsticks
- 2 cups broccoli florets, cut into matchsticks
- 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced into matchsticks
- 1 medium yellow squash, sliced into quarter portions
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into quarter portions
- 3 – 4 cloves garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup (heaping) grape tomatoes, halved through the length
- 2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup pasta water
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup shredded parmesan, divided
- 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook penne pasta in salted water according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a 12-inch deep skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken cubes with salt and pepper.
- Add the chicken to the hot skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- To the same skillet, add the red onion and carrot and sauté for 2 minutes.
- Add the broccoli and bell pepper, then sauté for another 2 minutes.
- Add the squash and zucchini, and continue to sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the vegetables have nearly softened.
- Stir in the garlic, tomatoes, and Italian seasoning, and sauté for 2 minutes longer.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables and toss to combine.
- Pour the chicken and vegetable mixture into the now-empty pasta pot or a large serving bowl. Add the drained pasta.
- Drizzle with lemon juice, season with a little more salt as needed, and toss while adding the reserved pasta water to loosen as desired.
- Toss in 1/4 cup of parmesan and the fresh parsley. Serve immediately with the remaining parmesan on top.
Notes
- If you want it cheesier, use 1 cup parmesan.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing and Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: Approximately 450 kcal
- Sugar: Approximately 8g
- Sodium: Approximately 400mg
- Fat: Approximately 18g
- Saturated Fat: Approximately 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: Approximately 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 45g
- Fiber: Approximately 6g
- Protein: Approximately 30g
- Cholesterol: Approximately 70mg
