Are you craving a flavorful, satisfying meal that won't keep you in the kitchen all evening? Then look no further! This chicken and pepper pasta recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's packed with vibrant colors, delicious flavors, and is surprisingly easy to make. This recipe is a fantastic example of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas, perfect for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all skill levels. Get ready to enjoy a delicious dish that's both comforting and exciting!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 large green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 ounce) jar of your favorite pasta sauce (marinara, arrabbiata, etc.)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Get started:
- Cook your pasta according to package directions. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining; this helps create a creamier sauce.
Sauté the veggies and chicken:
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Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Add the onion and bell peppers to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Combine and simmer:
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Stir in the pasta sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
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Return the chicken to the skillet. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Serve it up:
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Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
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Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, if desired.
Tips for the Best Chicken and Pepper Pasta:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Veggie boost: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
- Cheese please: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or ricotta.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or heavy cream for a richer sauce.
- Meal prep friendly: This dish is perfect for meal prepping. Simply store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Chicken and Pepper Pasta: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the sauce along with fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary.
- Spicy Sausage and Pepper Pasta: Substitute Italian sausage for the chicken and add a generous amount of red pepper flakes.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500 (depending on ingredients and portion size)
- Protein: 25-30 grams
- Carbohydrates: 50-60 grams
- Fat: 10-15 grams
This easy recipe is a great example of healthy meals you can whip up quickly. Enjoy your delicious and satisfying chicken and pepper pasta! It's a surefire way to elevate your weeknight dinners and impress your family and friends with minimal effort. This recipe is among the best recipes for its simplicity and deliciousness, making it a staple in any home cook's repertoire.