Name: Chicken and Vegetable Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Ingredients: 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs; 2 cups of halved cherry tomatoes or 2 medium tomatoes, diced; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons; 300g (10.5 oz) pasta (your choice, e.g., penne, fusilli); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional); Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Pasta:
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken:
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken thighs and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest. Once cooled, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Cook the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the diced tomatoes and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until they start to soften.
- Add the sliced zucchinis and cook for another 5-7 minutes, until they are tender.
Combine Ingredients:
- Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together.
- Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well to combine.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until everything is heated through.
Serve:
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Chicken and Vegetable Pasta!

Notes

Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach based on your preference or what you have on hand.
Pasta Choice: This recipe works well with various types of pasta, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. Whole grain or gluten-free pasta can be used for a healthier or dietary-friendly option.
Cheese Alternatives: While Parmesan adds a nice finishing touch, you can also use grated Pecorino Romano, or for a dairy-free version, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Extra Creaminess: For a creamier sauce, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese towards the end of cooking.