Save Experience the vibrant and wholesome flavors of our Garlic Herb Chicken & Veg Pasta. This Italian-inspired dish brings together tender, oven-roasted chicken breasts seasoned with aromatic herbs and a colorful medley of fresh garden vegetables. Tossed with al dente penne in a light, fragrant sauce, it offers a perfectly balanced meal that is as visually stunning as it is delicious.
Save The secret to this dish is the roasting technique, which caramelizes the vegetables and locks in the juices of the chicken. When combined with a splash of reserved pasta water, these natural juices create a light, savory coating that ensures every bite of pasta is infused with flavor.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 2 tbsp olive oil, 3 cloves garlic (minced), 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, 1 tbsp fresh thyme, 1 tsp dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Vegetables: 1 red bell pepper (sliced), 1 zucchini (half-moons), 1 small red onion (sliced), 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved), 1 cup broccoli florets.
- Pasta: 350 g (12 oz) penne pasta, 1 tbsp olive oil, ¼ cup reserved pasta water.
- Finish: ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, zest of 1 lemon (optional), extra salt and pepper to taste.
Instructions
- 1. Oven Setup
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- 2. Season Chicken
- In a large bowl, combine chicken breasts with olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat.
- 3. Prepare Tray
- Place chicken on one side of the prepared tray. Arrange bell pepper, zucchini, onion, cherry tomatoes, and broccoli on the other side. Drizzle vegetables with 1 tbsp olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper. Toss to coat and spread in a single layer.
- 4. Roast and Slice
- Roast for 20–25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temp 74°C/165°F) and vegetables are tender. Remove from oven. Let chicken rest 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
- 5. Cook Pasta
- Meanwhile, cook penne in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain.
- 6. Toss Together
- In a large skillet over medium heat, combine cooked pasta, roasted vegetables, sliced chicken, and reserved pasta water. Toss gently to combine and heat through.
- 7. Season and Garnish
- Stir in Parmesan, fresh parsley, and lemon zest if using. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- 8. Serve
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure maximum juiciness, always allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing; this prevents the flavorful juices from running out. Additionally, do not skip the reserved pasta water—the starch helps the oil and cheese form a light sauce that binds the ingredients together.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This recipe is highly versatile. You can substitute the listed vegetables with others like asparagus, mushrooms, or fresh spinach. For a vegetarian-friendly version, simply omit the chicken and double the quantity of roasted vegetables to keep the dish hearty and satisfying.
Serviervorschläge
Garnish the finished pasta with a generous dusting of Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for a bright finish. This meal pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which complements the herbal notes and the hint of lemon zest.
Save Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a colorful meal to share with friends, this Garlic Herb Chicken & Veg Pasta is sure to become a household favorite. Simple, fresh, and full of flavor, it’s a perfect example of how high-quality ingredients can create a truly comforting meal.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely. Thighs will take slightly longer to cook—around 25-30 minutes—and offer richer flavor. Ensure internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F) before removing from heat.
- → What vegetables work best for this dish?
Bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, broccoli, and red onion work wonderfully. You can also substitute with asparagus, mushrooms, snap peas, or spinach based on season and preference.
- → How do I make this vegetarian?
Simply omit the chicken and double the vegetable portions. Consider adding chickpeas or white beans for additional protein and heartiness to balance the dish.
- → Why reserve pasta water?
Pasta water contains starch that creates a silky sauce when combined with the other ingredients. It helps the flavors meld beautifully without needing heavy cream.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can prep ingredients the day before. However, assemble and serve fresh for best results. Leftovers keep refrigerated for 3-4 days and reheat well with a splash of water.