Easy Chicken Pasta Bake (with hidden veggies) from 3pickles.blogspot.com
Introduction
If you're looking for a quick and easy dinner recipe that's both delicious and filling, then this chicken pasta recipe is perfect for you! It's a simple dish that requires minimal prep time and only a handful of ingredients, making it a great option for those busy weeknights when you don't have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. Plus, it's a crowd-pleaser that's sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters in your family.
Ingredients
Here's what you'll need to make this easy chicken pasta recipe: - 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces - 1 lb. pasta (penne, fusilli, or any other type you prefer) - 2 tbsp. olive oil - 1 onion, chopped - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 can (14.5 oz.) diced tomatoes - 1 tsp. dried oregano - 1 tsp. dried basil - Salt and pepper, to taste - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. 2. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. 3. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. 4. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. 5. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. 6. Add the can of diced tomatoes (undrained) to the skillet, along with the dried oregano and basil. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. 7. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. 8. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well coated. 9. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and stir until melted and evenly distributed. 10. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Nutrition
This easy chicken pasta recipe makes about 4-6 servings, depending on how much pasta and chicken you use per serving. Here's the approximate nutrition information per serving: - Calories: 450-600 - Fat: 10-15g - Carbohydrates: 60-80g - Protein: 30-40g Of course, these numbers may vary depending on the specific ingredients and amounts you use. If you're looking to make this recipe healthier, you can try using whole wheat pasta, reducing the amount of cheese, or adding more veggies like spinach or bell peppers.
Conclusion
This easy chicken pasta recipe is a great option for those busy weeknights when you want to make something quick and delicious. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a satisfying meal on the table in no time. Plus, it's versatile enough to customize to your liking – add more veggies, switch up the pasta shape, or use a different type of cheese. Whatever you do, enjoy!
