Homemade Chicken Pasta

Looking for a delicious meal that can be prepared in 30 minutes with just 4 main ingredients? Look no further than our Homemade Chicken Pasta recipe! This dish is perfect for busy weeknight dinners or as part of your weekend meal prep. Whether you're craving something comforting and hearty, this pasta will surely satisfy all your cravings.

This chicken pasta recipe comes together quickly using tender strips of cooked chicken, whole wheat noodles, fresh vegetables like bell peppers and onions, and a light cream sauce that's easy to make. The result is a meal that’s satisfying yet not too heavy, making it ideal for both picky eaters and those who love their food full of flavor.

Ingredients

1 pound whole wheat spaghetti or fusilli pasta (preferably uncooked)
2 cups cooked chicken strips (shredded or chopped)
1 small onion, diced
2 bell peppers, sliced into strips
1/4 cup heavy cream
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional but recommended)

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, in a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the onions and bell peppers in olive oil for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften. Add the cooked chicken and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes or until heated through.
Increase the heat under the pot of boiling water slightly. Drain the pasta thoroughly, shaking off as much excess water as possible, then add it directly into the skillet with the chicken mixture. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly but still remains creamy.
If desired, garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot off the stove!

Benefits of Whole Wheat Pasta

Eating whole wheat pasta can provide numerous health benefits. It's a great source of complex carbohydrates that give you sustained energy throughout your day. The fiber content in whole grains helps regulate digestion and promotes heart health by lowering cholesterol levels in the blood.

Fresh vegetables like bell peppers add antioxidants which fight off free radicals, protecting against diseases such as cancer. Chicken is rich in protein; it’s essential for muscle growth and repair making this dish not only tasty but also beneficial for maintaining a healthy lifestyle!

DIY Sauce Variations

To switch things up from time to time, here are some creative ways you could modify the traditional cream sauce:

Add some heat: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Throw in herbs: Fresh basil, thyme, or oregano can transform the dish into something Mediterranean-inspired.
Go citrusy: A squeeze of lemon juice at the end adds brightness to the creamy sauce while balancing out its richness.

Nutritional Information per Serving (Approximate)

Serving Size: 1 cup cooked pasta; Calories: ~350 kcal; Protein: ~40g; Carbohydrates: ~60g; Fat: ~8g. Please note that these values may vary depending upon ingredient amounts used.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers after your first meal, this dish does well stored in an airtight container inside the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freezing is also possible – simply cool down thoroughly before transferring portions into freezer-safe containers or bags.

Conclusion

Homemade Chicken Pasta is more than just another simple dinner option; it’s a versatile dish that caters perfectly well for all types of palates. With its blend of wholesome ingredients, ease of preparation, and delightful taste profile, it stands out as an excellent choice for anyone seeking comfort food without compromising on nutrition.

Try this recipe at home today and enjoy the satisfaction of knowing exactly what goes into each bite!