Easy Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet Dinner

If you’re craving a meal that’s both quick and wholesome, this Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet is about to become your new go-to dinner. Combining tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and perfectly cooked pasta in one pan creates an effortless dish full of vibrant flavors and satisfying textures. Whether you’re cooking for the family or yourself, this Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet recipe is designed to keep things simple, healthy, and absolutely delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy Dinner: Ready in under 30 minutes, making weeknights stress-free and flavorful.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup since everything cooks together in one skillet.
• Fresh and Nutritious: Packed with zucchini and lean chicken for a balanced meal.
• Family-Friendly: Mild yet tasty flavors that appeal to kids and adults alike.
• Flexible Ingredients: Easy to swap or add ingredients to suit your tastes or pantry.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key, but don’t worry—this Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet keeps it straightforward. Each component plays a crucial role, blending textures and tastes to create a harmonious and colorful plate you’ll want to make again and again.

• Boneless Chicken Breast: Provides lean protein that cooks quickly and stays tender.
• Zucchini: Adds moisture, crunch, and subtle sweetness, plus vibrant color.
• Dry Pasta: Choose your favorite short pasta like penne or rotini for easy stirring and coating.
• Garlic: Infuses the dish with aromatic depth and a touch of warmth.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Give bursts of juiciness and a natural tang that brightens the dish.
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing and adds a lovely richness.
• Chicken Broth: Keeps the pasta moist as it cooks right in the skillet.
• Parmesan Cheese: Melts into the dish to bring a creamy, savory finish.
• Fresh Basil or Parsley: For a fresh herbaceous note to round out the flavors.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, enhancing all the fresh ingredients.

Variations for Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so feel free to get creative or adjust based on what you have on hand or your personal dietary needs. These variations make it easy to keep the basics true while tailoring to your preferences.

• Swap Chicken for Turkey: Use ground turkey or turkey breast for a leaner protein option.
• Gluten-Free Pasta: Substitute with rice pasta or chickpea pasta for a gluten-free version.
• Add More Veggies: Toss in mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Spice it Up: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or add a pinch of smoked paprika if you love a little heat.
• Dairy-Free: Skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese alternative to keep it dairy-free.

How to Make Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by finely chopping the zucchini, slicing the chicken into bite-sized pieces, and mincing the garlic. This prep work ensures everything cooks evenly and quickly in the skillet.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat olive oil over medium heat and add the chicken pieces. Season with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown and just cooked through, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Aromatics and Zucchini

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, then toss in the garlic and zucchini. Sauté until the zucchini softens and the garlic becomes fragrant, roughly 3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Pasta and Liquids

Pour in the dry pasta and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring it to a simmer and cover the skillet. Let it cook for about 10-12 minutes until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, add cherry tomatoes, and gently stir. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm the tomatoes and blend the flavors together.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Herbs

Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan over the top. Stir in chopped fresh basil or parsley for a bright finish before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet

• Pat Chicken Dry: Drying chicken pieces before cooking helps achieve a nice sear and better flavor.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if needed to avoid steaming, getting a golden crust instead.
• Pasta Choice Matters: Use short pasta that holds sauce well and cooks evenly in the skillet.
• Fresh Herbs Last: Add fresh herbs at the very end to keep their flavor vibrant.
• Adjust Broth Amount: Add more broth if pasta seems too dry during cooking for perfectly tender noodles.

How to Serve Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet

Garnishes

Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for heat, or drizzle a splash of good-quality olive oil for added richness.

Side Dishes

Pair this skillet meal with a simple side salad or warm crusty bread to round out the plate, keeping the focus on fresh, clean flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve directly in the skillet for a rustic and inviting look, or quickly transfer to individual bowls and top with a lemon wedge for a refreshing burst just before eating.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to enjoy the next day without sacrificing flavor.

Freezing

This Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet freezes well; just spread evenly in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth or water, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and keep the pasta moist.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! While short pasta like penne or rotini works best for even cooking in the skillet, you can substitute with other shapes as you prefer, just adjust cooking time accordingly.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The base recipe uses regular pasta, but you can easily make it gluten-free by selecting a certified gluten-free pasta option without affecting the deliciousness.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can chop the vegetables and chicken in advance and store them in the fridge to save time when you’re ready to cook, but best to assemble and cook fresh.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Try adding red pepper flakes during the sautéing step or a dash of hot sauce just before serving to give the skillet a kick that matches your heat tolerance.

What can I substitute for zucchini?

If zucchini isn’t available, yellow squash or even asparagus can be great stand-ins, offering similar texture and mild flavor to keep your Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet just right.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet is a delightful mix of ease, taste, and nutrition all cooked in one pan. Perfect for busy evenings yet satisfying enough to savor, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your weekly rotation. Don’t wait—grab your ingredients and give this simple but flavorful dish a try tonight!

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