Are you craving a mouthwatering meal that combines the perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and cheesy goodness? Look no further than this irresistible Garlic Chicken Veggie Pasta that promises to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience! In just 35 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality dish that will have your family and friends begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 cup pasta of your choice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast, 1 cup of pasta (such as penne or spaghetti), 2 cloves of garlic (minced), 1 cup of mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli), 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 cup of grated mozzarella cheese, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add a pinch of salt and the pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the chicken. Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
- Once the chicken is cooked, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet with the chicken and garlic. Stir well and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
- When the pasta is done cooking, drain it and reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the chicken and vegetables.
- Mix everything together, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to help combine the ingredients. Stir in the grated mozzarella cheese until it melts and coats the pasta and chicken.
- Season the dish with additional salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let it sit for a minute to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve the Garlic Chicken Veggie Pasta hot, garnished with extra cheese or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your meal!
Tips
- For maximum flavor, season your chicken generously and ensure it's cooked to a golden brown before adding other ingredients.
- Don't overcook your vegetables - aim for a crisp-tender texture to maintain nutrients and prevent mushiness.
- Reserve some pasta water before draining; its starchy goodness helps create a silky sauce that clings perfectly to your pasta.
- Use fresh garlic if possible, as it provides a more robust and authentic flavor compared to pre-minced versions.
- Feel free to customize your vegetable mix based on what's in season or what you have in your refrigerator - this recipe is wonderfully flexible!
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 95mg
