Healthy Chicken Pasta Primavera Recipe in 30 Minutes the Easy Way (2023)

• 500/17 g/oz skinless boneless chicken breast
• 300/10 g/oz penne pasta (you can use other pasta types as well)
• 150/5.5 g/oz zucchini, thinly sliced
• 150/5.5 g/oz cherry tomatoes, cut into halves
• 100/3.5 g/oz yellow onions, very finely wedged
• 100/3.5 g/oz green peas (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1-2 cloves of garlic, very finely minced, chopped, or crushed
• 150/5.5 g/oz grated Parmesan
• 200/7 g/oz sour cream (20% fat)
• salt and ground white pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano powder
• 2 tbsp fresh basil leaves (1 tbsp for garnishing)
• 3 tbsp olive oil

• Bring to boil a pot with salted water, add the pasta and boil it al dente (undercooked) according to instructions on the package, then drain the water well and set it aside.

• Bone the chicken breast if needed, cube it into medium pieces, pour oil into a skillet, wait to heat up, then add the chicken breast, season with some salt, and fry it over a medium temperature until bleached.

• Add the onion, garlic, zucchini, tomatoes, and peas to the skillet and simmer the ingredients for about 5 minutes or until slightly roasted.

• Pour half a glass of water into the skillet to stop frying and deglaze the skillet, add dried oregano, white pepper, and half of the fresh basil leaves, then simmer ingredients for 2-3 minutes or until the water is very low.

• Add the heavy cream to the skillet, stir the ingredients, and simmer them just to bring to a boil (1-2 minutes), then stop the heat.

• Add the boiled pasta to the skillet, mix the ingredients well, then sprinkle grated Parmesan into a layer and place the lid on the skillet to make a melted crust.

• Remove the lid, sprinkle some fresh basil leaves over the chicken primavera and serve it immediately.

Cooking Tips:

1. Cook the Vegetables Al Dente: When sautéing or blanching the vegetables for your Chicken Pasta Primavera, be mindful of the cooking time. Aim to cook the vegetables until they are just tender but still retain a slight crispness. This will ensure they maintain their vibrant color, texture, and nutrients, adding a delightful crunch to your dish.
2. Season Generously: To enhance the flavors of your Chicken Pasta Primavera, don’t shy away from seasoning. Use a generous amount of salt and pepper at each stage of cooking, from seasoning the chicken to seasoning the vegetables and sauce. This will help to bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients and create a well-balanced and savory dish.
3. Use Homemade or High-Quality Chicken Stock: If you’re using chicken stock in your sauce, consider using homemade stock or opting for a high-quality store-bought variety. A rich and flavorful stock will elevate the taste of the sauce, adding depth and complexity to the overall dish. If you don’t have chicken stock on hand, you can use a combination of chicken broth and white wine for a delicious alternative.
4. Reserve Pasta Water: When draining the cooked pasta, remember to reserve a small amount of the pasta water. The starchy pasta water can be used to adjust the consistency of the sauce, making it creamier and helping it adhere better to the pasta and vegetables. Add the pasta water gradually, as needed, while tossing the ingredients together.
5. Finish with Fresh Herbs: Just before serving your Chicken Pasta Primavera, garnish it with a generous handful of fresh herbs. Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or chives add a burst of freshness, aroma, and vibrant flavors to the dish. Chop the herbs finely and sprinkle them over the top, allowing their fragrant notes to complement and enhance the overall taste experience.