Chicken Primavera

Every time I make Chicken Primavera, I’m reminded of a warm spring evening when the flowers bloom and the air is filled with freshness. It’s one of those dishes that captures the essence of the season, with vibrant vegetables dancing in a creamy sauce over tender pasta. The first time I made it, I was experimenting with what I had in the fridge. Little did I know it would become a staple in my household. My kids love the colors and flavors, and I adore how simple it is to make. It’s become a go-to recipe for not only weeknight dinners but also for gatherings with friends. The beauty of this dish is that it’s so versatile; you can adjust the vegetables based on what’s in season or what your family enjoys. Whether it’s the comfort of the creamy sauce or the satisfying crunch of fresh vegetables, Chicken Primavera brings a sense of joy to the table.

Every time I make Chicken Primavera, I’m reminded of a warm spring evening when the flowers bloom and the air is filled with freshness. It’s one of those dishes that captures the essence of the season, with vibrant vegetables dancing in a creamy sauce over tender pasta. The first time I made it, I was experimenting with what I had in the fridge. Little did I know it would become a staple in my household. My kids love the colors and flavors, and I adore how simple it is to make. It’s become a go-to recipe for not only weeknight dinners but also for gatherings with friends. The beauty of this dish is that it’s so versatile; you can adjust the vegetables based on what’s in season or what your family enjoys. Whether it’s the comfort of the creamy sauce or the satisfying crunch of fresh vegetables, Chicken Primavera brings a sense of joy to the table.

Every time I make Chicken Primavera, I’m reminded of a warm spring evening when the flowers bloom and the air is filled with freshness. It’s one of those dishes that captures the essence of the season, with vibrant vegetables dancing in a creamy sauce over tender pasta. The first time I made it, I was experimenting with what I had in the fridge. Little did I know it would become a staple in my household. My kids love the colors and flavors, and I adore how simple it is to make. It’s become a go-to recipe for not only weeknight dinners but also for gatherings with friends. The beauty of this dish is that it’s so versatile; you can adjust the vegetables based on what’s in season or what your family enjoys. Whether it’s the comfort of the creamy sauce or the satisfying crunch of fresh vegetables, Chicken Primavera brings a sense of joy to the table.

Every time I make Chicken Primavera, I’m reminded of a warm spring evening when the flowers bloom and the air is filled with freshness. It’s one of those dishes that captures the essence of the season, with vibrant vegetables dancing in a creamy sauce over tender pasta. The first time I made it, I was experimenting with what I had in the fridge. Little did I know it would become a staple in my household. My kids love the colors and flavors, and I adore how simple it is to make. It’s become a go-to recipe for not only weeknight dinners but also for gatherings with friends. The beauty of this dish is that it’s so versatile; you can adjust the vegetables based on what’s in season or what your family enjoys. Whether it’s the comfort of the creamy sauce or the satisfying crunch of fresh vegetables, Chicken Primavera brings a sense of joy to the table.

Everything You Need for Chicken Primavera

When it comes to Chicken Primavera, the ingredients are what really shine. This dish celebrates seasonal produce, allowing you to enjoy the best flavors spring has to offer. From the vibrant carrots to the tender broccoli, each element works together harmoniously. The star players like penne pasta and chicken create a satisfying base, while the creamy sauce binds everything beautifully.

• 8 ounces penne pasta – This pasta shape holds the sauce well, ensuring every bite is filled with flavor.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – A healthy fat that adds richness to the dish.
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts – Lean protein that complements the vegetables and sauce.
• 1½ cups heavy cream – The creamy base of the sauce that brings everything together.
• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty flavor and enhances the creaminess.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – A touch of fat that elevates the dish’s richness.
• 1 cup sliced carrots – Sweet and colorful, they add a nice crunch.
• 1 cup broccoli florets – Packed with nutrients, they provide a beautiful green contrast.
• ½ cup diced yellow onion – Adds depth of flavor to the sauce.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper – A seasoning that adds warmth.
• 2 beefsteak tomatoes – Juicy and vibrant, they provide a fresh finish to the dish.

Directions for Chicken Primavera

Making Chicken Primavera is an enjoyable process that fills your kitchen with delicious aromas. Follow these steps to create a vibrant, satisfying meal that your family will love.

1. Start by bringing 4 cups of water to a boil in a large pot. Once boiling, add in the penne pasta and cook until al dente. This typically takes around 8 to 10 minutes, but be sure to check the package instructions. You want the pasta to be firm yet tender.
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add the olive oil and let it warm for a minute. This is an essential step to ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and gains a nice golden color.
3. Once the oil is hot, add in the cubed chicken breasts. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink. This is where the magic happens—the aroma of cooking chicken with olive oil will fill your kitchen!
4. Next, it’s time to create the creamy sauce. Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, butter, sliced carrots, diced onion, broccoli florets, kosher salt, and black pepper into the skillet. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 5 minutes. The sauce will start to thicken, and the vegetables will soften beautifully.
5. Once the sauce is simmering, reduce the heat to low and let it cook uncovered for 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and creamy coating for the pasta.
6. As the sauce simmers, it’s the perfect time to check on your pasta. Once done, drain the penne pasta and reserve a little pasta water in case you need to adjust the sauce consistency later.
7. After 10 minutes, stir in the diced beefsteak tomatoes into the sauce. Let them simmer for an additional 5 minutes. This last step brings a fresh brightness to the dish.
8. Once everything is ready, remove the skillet from the heat. Toss the cooked penne pasta with the sauce, ensuring every piece is generously coated. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
9. Finally, serve your Chicken Primavera immediately. You can garnish it with some extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy the explosion of flavors!

Helpful Hints

Cooking is as much about technique as it is about flavor. Here are some tips to help you make the best Chicken Primavera:

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
• Freezing: You can freeze the dish before adding the tomatoes. Just thaw and reheat before tossing in the fresh tomatoes.
• Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Seasonal Variations: In summer, consider adding zucchini and bell peppers for a different flavor profile.
• Utilize Fresh Herbs: Add some fresh basil or parsley on top before serving for an extra pop of flavor.

Perfect Matches for Chicken Primavera

Serving Chicken Primavera is all about enhancing its vibrant flavors and creamy texture. Here are some fantastic ideas:

• Fresh Garden Salad: A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, crispy garlic bread to scoop up the creamy sauce.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for casual family dinners, special occasions, or even potlucks.
• Wine Pairing: Enjoy with a light white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing complement.
• Seasonal Pairings: In spring, serve with asparagus or peas for a festive touch.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce ahead of time and cook the pasta fresh before serving to save time.

FAQ

Conclusion

Chicken Primavera is a special dish that effortlessly combines the flavors of spring with a creamy, comforting sauce. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy family meal. I encourage you to try making this delightful dish tonight! Your taste buds will be happy, and it’s a great way to celebrate the season’s freshest ingredients.

Chicken Primavera

The ultimate comfort food, Chicken Primavera is a creamy, fresh, and vibrant dish that's perfect for an easy weeknight dinner. Packed with colorful vegetables and tender chicken, it's both satisfying and delicious. Make it tonight and delight your family!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 620

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 8 ounces penne pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1.5 cups heavy cream
• 0.25 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup sliced carrots
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 0.5 cup diced yellow onion
• 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
• 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 beefsteak tomatoes diced

Equipment

• Large Pot
• Cutting Board
• Skillet
• Saucepan
• Frying pan
• Grater
• Wooden Spoon
• Chef's Knife

Method

 

1. Start by bringing 4 cups of water to a boil in a large pot. Once boiling, add in the penne pasta and cook until al dente. This typically takes around 8 to 10 minutes, but be sure to check the package instructions. You want the pasta to be firm yet tender.
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add the olive oil and let it warm for a minute. This is an essential step to ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and gains a nice golden color.
3. Once the oil is hot, add in the cubed chicken breasts. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink. This is where the magic happens—the aroma of cooking chicken with olive oil will fill your kitchen!
4. Next, it’s time to create the creamy sauce. Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, butter, sliced carrots, diced onion, broccoli florets, kosher salt, and black pepper into the skillet. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 5 minutes. The sauce will start to thicken, and the vegetables will soften beautifully.
5. Once the sauce is simmering, reduce the heat to low and let it cook uncovered for 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and creamy coating for the pasta.
6. As the sauce simmers, it’s the perfect time to check on your pasta. Once done, drain the penne pasta and reserve a little pasta water in case you need to adjust the sauce consistency later.
7. After 10 minutes, stir in the diced beefsteak tomatoes into the sauce. Let them simmer for an additional 5 minutes. This last step brings a fresh brightness to the dish.
8. Once everything is ready, remove the skillet from the heat. Toss the cooked penne pasta with the sauce, ensuring every piece is generously coated. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
9. Finally, serve your Chicken Primavera immediately. You can garnish it with some extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy the explosion of flavors!

Notes

• Tip 1: Cook the pasta al dente so it doesn’t overcook once tossed in the sauce.
• Tip 2: Make sure the cream is at room temperature; this will keep it from curdling.
• Tip 3: You can easily swap in any veggies you have to this chicken primavera dish. Mushrooms and zucchini work great!
• Tip 4: If you’re in the mood for a meatless dinner, you can skip the chicken altogether, and it’s still a super tasty dish.

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Meet Hazel Miller

The Flavor Enthusiast Yes, Jenna and I are related! Growing up, our kitchen was the center of our world, and that hasn’t changed. I am a curious cook who loves exploring new ingredients and techniques. I don’t have a single specialty I just love the magic of transformation. Whether we are grilling outdoors or baking indoors, I am always right there, tasting, testing, and ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.