Farfalle with Chicken & Veggies is a delightful dish that brings together the savory flavors of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe is not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you crave a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With a cooking time of just 35 minutes, including prep and cook time, this recipe is a winner in terms of both taste and convenience.
Farfalle, also known as bow-tie pasta, serves as the hearty base for this dish. Its unique shape and slightly chewy texture make it perfect for capturing the flavors of the sauce and accompanying ingredients. Paired with succulent chicken breast and an assortment of colorful vegetables, this dish is as visually appealing as it is flavorful. Each bite offers a delightful blend of textures and tastes, ensuring a truly satisfying dining experience.
To begin, gather your ingredients: farfalle pasta, extra virgin olive oil, zucchini, red bell pepper, garlic, and parmesan cheese. You’ll also need boneless, skinless chicken breast, which adds protein and richness to the dish. With these simple yet flavorful ingredients, you’ll create a meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
Start by cooking the farfalle according to the package directions until it’s al dente. This ensures that the pasta retains a slight firmness, providing a satisfying bite in every forkful. Once cooked, drain the pasta well, allowing any excess water to escape to prevent a watery sauce.
While the pasta is cooking, heat a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast to the skillet and cook it until it’s fully cooked through and golden brown on the outside. Season the chicken with salt and pepper to taste, enhancing its natural flavors and adding depth to the dish.
Next, it’s time to add the vegetables. Minced garlic, sliced zucchini, diced red bell pepper, and any other vegetables you desire, such as yellow squash or mushrooms, are added to the skillet. These colorful additions not only contribute to the visual appeal of the dish but also provide a variety of textures and flavors that complement the chicken and pasta beautifully.
Cook the vegetables for 5 to 8 minutes, stirring often to ensure even cooking and to prevent them from sticking to the skillet. This brief cooking time allows the vegetables to soften slightly while still retaining their crispness, adding freshness and vibrancy to the dish.
Once the vegetables are tender, reduce the heat to medium-low and add your favorite spaghetti sauce to the skillet. Whether you prefer a classic marinara sauce, a creamy Alfredo sauce, or a spicy arrabbiata sauce, choose one that complements the flavors of the chicken and vegetables. Allow the sauce to heat through until it’s hot and bubbly, infusing the dish with its rich aroma and savory taste.
To serve, ladle the chicken and vegetable mixture over the cooked farfalle pasta, ensuring that each serving is generously coated with the flavorful sauce. Sprinkle plenty of grated parmesan cheese over the top, adding a salty richness that enhances the other ingredients.
With its enticing aroma, vibrant colors, and irresistible flavors, Farfalle with Chicken & Veggies is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress with its delicious taste and elegant presentation. Enjoy the satisfaction of creating a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen, and savor each bite of this delectable pasta dish.
