Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a dish that's both healthy and incredibly flavorful? Then look no further! This Creamy Chicken Primavera recipe is your answer. It's a vibrant, spring-inspired meal bursting with fresh vegetables and tender chicken in a luscious creamy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful weekend meal, this recipe is easy enough for beginners yet satisfying enough for seasoned cooks. Let's dive in!
Ingredients: What You'll Need for this Delicious Dish
This recipe serves 4 and takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 1 cup sliced zucchini
- 1 cup sugar snap peas
- 1 (10 ounce) package frozen peas
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pasta of your choice (optional, for serving)
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide to Primavera Perfection
Get Started:
- Begin by cooking your pasta (if using). Follow package directions for al dente. Set aside.
Cooking the Chicken and Vegetables:
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Heat the olive oil in 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 to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Stir in the broccoli, carrots, zucchini, and sugar snap peas. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Creating the Creamy Sauce:
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Add the frozen peas and heavy cream to the skillet. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
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Reduce heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Combining and Serving:
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Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat it in the creamy sauce.
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Serve immediately over your cooked pasta (if using) or enjoy it as is. Garnish with extra parsley, if desired.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Creamy Chicken Primavera
- Don't overcook the vegetables: You want them to be tender-crisp, not mushy.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh flavor that enhances the creamy sauce.
- Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Add some spice: For a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Customize your vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or asparagus.
Variations: Make it Your Own!
- Lemon Primavera: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the sauce for a bright, citrusy twist.
- Spicy Primavera: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Primavera: Omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like artichoke hearts or spinach for a hearty vegetarian option.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, without Pasta):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This Creamy Chicken Primavera is a quick, healthy, and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this easy recipe and impress your family and friends with this homemade masterpiece! It's a simple dish that's packed with flavor and nutrition, making it a true winner in the world of easy recipes and healthy meals.