Garlic Herb Chicken Veg Pasta

Experience the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this Garlic Herb Chicken & Veg Pasta. This dish combines succulent, herb-marinated chicken breasts with a medley of roasted vegetables, all tossed together with al dente penne. The aromatic blend of fresh rosemary, thyme, and garlic creates a light yet deeply satisfying meal that is both healthy and comforting.

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The secret to this dish lies in the roasting process, where the cherry tomatoes burst to form a natural sauce and the zucchini and peppers become tender and sweet. By using the reserved pasta water, you create a silky finish that perfectly binds the herbs and Parmesan to the pasta, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.

Ingredients

• Chicken: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 2 tbsp olive oil, 3 cloves garlic (minced), 1 tbsp fresh rosemary (chopped), 1 tbsp fresh thyme (chopped), 1 tsp dried oregano, ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper.
• Vegetables: 1 red bell pepper (sliced), 1 zucchini (sliced into half-moons), 1 small red onion (sliced), 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved), 1 cup broccoli florets.
• Pasta: 350 g (12 oz) penne pasta, 1 tbsp olive oil, ¼ cup reserved pasta water.
• Finish: ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, Zest of 1 lemon (optional), extra salt and pepper to taste.

Instructions

Step 1

Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a large bowl, combine chicken breasts with olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat.

Step 3

Place chicken on one side of the prepared tray. Arrange bell pepper, zucchini, onion, cherry tomatoes, and broccoli on the other side. Drizzle vegetables with 1 tbsp olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper. Toss to coat and spread in a single layer.

Step 4

Roast for 20–25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temp 74°C/165°F) and vegetables are tender. Remove from oven. Let chicken rest 5 minutes, then slice thinly.

Step 5

Meanwhile, cook penne in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain.

Step 6

In a large skillet over medium heat, combine cooked pasta, roasted vegetables, sliced chicken, and reserved pasta water. Toss gently to combine and heat through.

Step 7

Stir in Parmesan, fresh parsley, and lemon zest if using. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 8

Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best texture, ensure the vegetables are spread in a single layer on the baking tray to encourage roasting rather than steaming. Resting the chicken for 5 minutes after it comes out of the oven is crucial, as it allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in much more tender slices.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can easily adapt this dish by substituting other vegetables such as asparagus, mushrooms, or fresh spinach. For those seeking a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and double the quantity of vegetables to maintain a hearty and satisfying portion.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this pasta warm with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh parsley. It pairs exceptionally well with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which complements the herbal notes of the rosemary and thyme.

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This Garlic Herb Chicken & Veg Pasta provides a balanced nutritional profile with 510 calories, 35g of protein, and 15g of fat per serving. It’s an ideal choice for a wholesome weeknight dinner that doesn't compromise on taste or presentation.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely. Simply omit the chicken and double the vegetables. You can also add white beans or chickpeas for extra protein to maintain a balanced dish.

→ What other vegetables work well in this pasta?

Asparagus, mushrooms, spinach, or eggplant make excellent additions or substitutions. Use whatever seasonal vegetables you have on hand for variety.

→ Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes. Fusilli, rotini, or rigatoni all work beautifully. Short pasta with ridges or tubes holds the sauce and vegetable pieces well.

→ How long do leftovers keep?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or olive oil to refresh the sauce.

→ Can I prepare components ahead?

You can season the chicken and chop vegetables up to a day in advance. Store separately in the refrigerator and roast when ready to cook.

→ What wine pairs well with this pasta?

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the garlic and herbs beautifully. For red wine lovers, a light Chianti works nicely too.