Perfectly Balanced One-Pot Chicken Pasta Dinner

Looking for a delicious, nutritious, and quick meal that can be prepared in one pot? Look no further than this One-Pot Chicken Pasta Dinner! This versatile dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also fills you up with essential nutrients. It is packed with protein from the chicken, fiber from the vegetables, and carbohydrates from the pasta. With a cooking time of approximately 30 minutes and serving four people perfectly, it’s an ideal recipe for busy weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
• 1 cup uncooked penne pasta
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced thinly
• 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt to taste (optional)
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste (optional)
• Cooked spinach or baby kale, for garnish
• Parmesan cheese, grated, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. If you prefer a baked version of this dish, place the chicken breasts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil.

2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain thoroughly and set aside.

3. While the pasta is cooking, finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Slice the bell pepper and carrots into strips or matchsticks for easy cooking. Set these vegetables aside.

4. Braising: In a large oven-safe pan or casserole dish with a tight-fitting lid (or a Dutch oven), heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken breasts, skin side down if possible, and sear them for about 5 minutes per side until golden brown.

5. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pan and cook for another minute or two until they start to soften. Stir in the bell pepper strips, carrots, and chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper as desired.

6. Once the pasta is cooked, add it directly into the pot along with any remaining liquid from draining. Mix well to combine all the ingredients evenly. Transfer the entire contents of the pan to your preheated oven for about 25 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

7. Final Step: After baking, remove the casserole from the oven. Garnish with spinach or baby kale for a pop of color and texture, and sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese if you wish to add more flavor. Serve hot!

Tips and Variations

• For extra zest, you can use different herbs such as oregano or thyme instead of just salt and pepper.

• Baked Version: If you don’t have an oven-safe dish, you can also prepare this dish on the stovetop. After braising, cover the pan with a lid or aluminum foil, bring it to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the temperature and let simmer until everything is cooked.

• Vegetarian Option: To make this dish entirely vegetarian, substitute the chicken for extra firm tofu or tempeh. Press these ingredients well before cooking to ensure they hold their shape better during braising.

Conclusion

This One-Pot Chicken Pasta Dinner is more than just another pasta dish; it’s a balanced meal that combines protein, vegetables, and whole grains into one hearty recipe. Enjoy the convenience of having everything prepared in a single pot while minimizing cleanup. Whether you're cooking for yourself or entertaining friends, this versatile dish will not disappoint.