Perfectly Balanced One-Pan Chicken Pasta

Looking for a quick yet delicious meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes? This perfectly balanced one-pan chicken pasta is an excellent choice! It’s rich with flavor, packed with protein and vegetables, and most importantly—satisfying. Perfectly Balanced One-Pan Chicken Pasta is not only easy to make but also provides a delightful taste experience for the whole family.

Ingredients needed for this recipe include:

• 1 lb of chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces
• 8 oz of penne pasta
• 2 cups of cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for spiciness)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Parmesan cheese for topping (optional)

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. While waiting, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain it thoroughly ensuring no water is left as this might dilute the sauce.

In a large oven-safe skillet, heat up olive oil over medium heat and add chicken pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Allow the chicken to brown on all sides for about 5-7 minutes before adding garlic and tomatoes.

Mix these ingredients well; let them simmer together until the tomatoes start breaking down into a sauce consistency—around 3-4 more minutes. Stir in drained pasta, followed by fresh basil leaves. The combination of chicken, pasta, and vegetables creates an harmonious balance of flavors that makes each bite a delightful experience.

Transfer the pan to your preheated oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through. During this time, the sauce thickens further due to evaporation, enhancing its taste even more. If using, sprinkle some Parmesan cheese over the dish right before serving—this adds extra richness and flavor.

Once out of the oven, let it sit for a few minutes so all components meld together properly. Serve immediately! This perfect balance one-pan chicken pasta makes for a hearty lunch or dinner that’s sure to impress both kids and adults alike.

Cooking Time: Approximately 25 minutesServings: Serves 4

Benefits of Perfectly Balanced One-Pan Chicken Pasta

Eating this dish contributes positively towards a balanced diet. It includes lean protein from the chicken, complex carbohydrates from pasta providing sustained energy, and fiber-rich vegetables like cherry tomatoes which aid digestion. The inclusion of fresh herbs adds vitamins and minerals while enhancing its flavor profile.

1. Enhanced nutrient absorption: Cooking vegetables in their own juices helps retain more nutrients compared to boiling them separately or raw. This method ensures you get the most out of each ingredient used.

2. Time efficiency: Being a one-pan meal, it requires minimal cleanup. Simply disposing of the pan after washing saves time and effort.

3. Cooking together is bonding: Sharing cooking experiences with family members or friends can strengthen relationships while enjoying quality time spent together.

This recipe showcases how simple ingredients can be transformed into something extraordinary. You needn’t spend hours in the kitchen preparing meals; sometimes, less is more. Give Perfectly Balanced One-Pan Chicken Pasta a try sometime soon and treat yourself to a delicious yet nutritious meal.