Name: 15-Minute Chicken Pasta: Quick & Delicious Dinner Idea
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts, cut into strips; 1/2 medium yellow onion, chopped; 1/2 bell pepper, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 cup marinara sauce; 3 cups cooked pasta (1.5 cups dry pasta); 1/2 cup mozzarella or Italian blend cheese; 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)

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Chicken Pasta has become my go-to dish for quick weeknight meals. This Quick and Easy 15-Minute Chicken Pasta Recipe is perfect for a fast, flavorful dinner. Tender chicken strips are sautéed with aromatic onions, bell peppers, and garlic, then simmered in marinara sauce and combined with perfectly cooked pasta. Finished with gooey melted mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan, this dish is simple yet satisfying and ideal for busy evenings.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Pasta

There are myriad reasons to enjoy this Chicken Pasta. First off, it’s incredibly quick to prepare—only 15 minutes! This makes it perfect for a busy weeknight. It’s a one-pot meal, which means minimal cleanup, and its comforting flavors are sure to please everyone at the dinner table. Additionally, it can be tailored to suit your taste, whether you prefer chicken fettuccine or chicken spaghetti. The healthy ingredients make it a guilt-free option, and you can easily incorporate seasonal vegetables. Lastly, it’s a dish that even kids will love, making it a family favorite.

Ingredients for Chicken Pasta

Gather these items:

2 chicken breasts, cut into strips
1/2 medium yellow onion, chopped
1/2 bell pepper, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 cup marinara sauce
3 cups cooked pasta (1.5 cups dry pasta)
1/2 cup mozzarella or Italian blend cheese
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)

How to Make Chicken Pasta Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of salted water to a boil. Add 1.5 cups of uncooked pasta and 1 teaspoon salt. Cover and cook for 10 minutes until the pasta is tender.
Step 2: While the pasta cooks, prepare the chicken, onion, and bell pepper by cutting them into strips and pieces. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a heavy-duty pan or pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and sauté for 1-2 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until lightly golden.
Step 3: Add the chicken strips along with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, and cook until the chicken is browned and nearly cooked through.
Step 4: Pour in the marinara sauce over the chicken mixture and cover the pan. Allow to simmer gently for 5 minutes to meld the flavors and finish cooking the chicken.
Step 5: Drain the pasta water and add the cooked pasta directly into the pan with the chicken and sauce. Mix everything well to coat the pasta evenly. Sprinkle the mozzarella or Italian blend cheese on top and turn off the heat, letting the residual warmth melt the cheese. For a bubbly cheese topping, you may choose to broil it under the oven broiler for a few minutes.
Step 6: Finish by topping the dish with Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your quick and delicious chicken pasta meal!

Pro Tips for the Perfect Chicken Pasta

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh vegetables can elevate your dish.
Cook the pasta al dente to avoid it becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
For an extra kick, add red pepper flakes or Italian herbs.
Consider adding some spinach or other greens for a healthy chicken pasta option.

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Best Ways to Serve Chicken Pasta

Here are a few ideas to accompany your chicken pasta:

Serve with garlic bread on the side for a delicious pairing.
Top with fresh basil or parsley for added flavor and color.
Consider making a chicken pasta salad by chilling leftovers and adding a light vinaigrette.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Pasta

To store your chicken pasta, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warm. This makes it a fantastic one-pot chicken pasta meal for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Pasta

What’s the secret to perfect Chicken Pasta?

To achieve the perfect chicken pasta, ensure that your chicken is cooked through but still juicy. The right balance of sauce is key to avoid a dry dish. Lastly, always use freshly cooked pasta for the best texture.

Can I make Chicken Pasta ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken pasta a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving. This works well for quick chicken pasta recipes for busy nights.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chicken Pasta?

To avoid common mistakes, don’t overcook the pasta, as it can become mushy when mixed with sauce. Also, season your chicken properly to enhance flavor. Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed!

15-Minute Chicken Pasta: Quick & Delicious Dinner Idea - Chicken Pasta - additional detail

Variations of Chicken Pasta You Can Try

If you’re looking to mix things up, here are some variations:

Try a creamy chicken pasta dish by adding cream cheese or Alfredo sauce.
Make a chicken and pasta bake by layering in a baking dish and topping with cheese before baking until golden.
Add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or broccoli for a chicken pasta with vegetables dish.
For a healthier option, substitute whole grain pasta or zoodles (zucchini noodles) to reduce calories.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making creamy chicken pasta for a delightful twist. You can also explore chicken noodle soup for a comforting option!