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Wholesome and Delicious Chicken Pasta Recipe

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This Wholesome and Delicious Chicken Pasta Recipe combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and pasta in a light, flavorful sauce. It’s a nutritious, one-pan meal perfect for weeknight dinners or easy entertaining.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 8 oz whole wheat or regular pasta (penne, fusilli, or preferred type)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 cups baby spinach or kale
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, drain, and set aside.
  2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  3. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes per side. Remove and let rest before slicing.
  4. Add remaining olive oil to the skillet. Sauté chopped onion until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
  5. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until soft and blistered, about 5 minutes.
  6. Add bell peppers and greens. Cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes.
  7. Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet. Add cooked pasta and toss to combine.
  8. Pour in reserved pasta water and lemon juice. Stir to loosen the sauce and coat evenly.
  9. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  10. Serve warm, topped with Parmesan and fresh herbs.

Notes

  • Use rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
  • Swap pasta with gluten-free or chickpea pasta if needed.
  • Add more vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or mushrooms for variety.
  • To make it dairy-free, omit the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
  • Enjoy cold as a pasta salad the next day with extra olive oil and lemon juice.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/wholesome-and-delicious-chicken-pasta-recipe/