Chicken Pasta Primavera is not just a dish, it’s a celebration of spring. This delightful pasta dish, bursting with fresh vegetables and tender chicken, is as colorful as it is tasty. Its name, “Primavera,” literally means “spring” in Italian, and it perfectly captures the essence of the season with its bright and vibrant ingredients.
Ingredients For Chicken Pasta Primavera
For a perfect Chicken Pasta Primavera, you will need:
- Chicken breast: Lean and thinly sliced
- Assorted spring vegetables: Such as asparagus, peas, and bell peppers
- Pasta: Penne, fusilli, or spaghetti
- Garlic and onions: For a flavor base
- Olive oil and butter: For sautéing
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated
- Light cream or half and half: For the sauce
- Herbs: Basil or parsley, freshly chopped
Understanding the importance of using fresh, seasonal ingredients can elevate your dish significantly. For tips on other seasonal dishes, check out this recipe for Broccoli Potato Soup, perfect for those cooler spring evenings.
How to Make Chicken Pasta Primavera
- Prepare the Pasta:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken seasoned with salt and pepper, sauté until golden and cooked through.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed, then the garlic and onions. Sauté until fragrant.
- Add the rest of the vegetables and cook until just tender, maintaining their vibrant colors.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Toss the cooked pasta with the vegetables, chicken, and cream. Heat through.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and herbs. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve:
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs.
For more detailed guidance on pasta types and their cooking techniques, why not explore our Crock-Pot Chicken Pasta Alfredo, a great dish for those busy weeknights.
Nutritional Information
Chicken Pasta Primavera is not only delicious but also offers a balanced meal with:
- A good source of protein from chicken
- Rich in fiber and vitamins from fresh vegetables
- Moderate in carbohydrates from pasta
- Lower in fat due to the use of light cream and minimal oil
- Check this article for more Nutritional Information
Customizing Your Dish
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with tofu or just double the vegetables.
- Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free pasta.
- Adding Variety: Feel free to use seasonal vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for a different twist.
Tips for the Perfect Cream Sauce
- Avoid Curdling: Ensure not to let the cream boil too vigorously.
- Flavor Balance: A splash of white wine can add depth to the sauce.
- Creaminess: For those avoiding dairy, consider blending cashews with water for a creamy alternative.
FAQs
- How do I keep the vegetables crisp in the dish?
- Add them towards the end of the cooking process to avoid overcooking.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep all ingredients ahead for quicker assembly.
- What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
- Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a little extra cream if needed.
Pairing Suggestions
- Wine: A light Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the creamy, yet light nature of this dish.
- Bread: Serve with a side of crusty garlic bread to complete the meal.
Chicken Pasta Primavera is a versatile, colorful, and nutritious dish that’s perfect for welcoming the freshness of spring into your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for one or entertaining guests, this pasta dish is sure to impress with its delightful flavors and appealing presentation.
Chicken pasta primavera
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast Sliced into thin strips
- 12 oz Pasta Penne or fusilli recommended
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup of sliced bell peppers Mix of colors
- 1 cup Cherry tomatoes Halved
- 1 cup peas
- 1/2 cup carrots Thinly sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic Minced
- 1 medium onion Finely chopped
- 1/2 cup light cream
- 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh herbs: Basil or parsley, for garnish
- Salt and pepper: To taste
Instructions
Prep the Ingredients:
- Wash and chop all vegetables as described. Slice the chicken into thin strips and season with salt and pepper.
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Chicken:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken strips and sauté until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Cook Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté onions and garlic until translucent. Add bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli, cooking until they are just becoming tender.
Combine Ingredients:
- Add the cherry tomatoes and peas to the skillet. Pour in chicken broth and cream, bringing the mixture to a light simmer.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and add cooked pasta. Toss everything together until well coated and heated through.
Finish the Dish:
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh chopped herbs before serving.
