Here’s a recipe for One Pan Chicken & Veggie Bake that fits the concept of “30-minute meals for families” and not only that!!!!!!
Meal Prep and Cooking Time for Creamy Chicken Pasta
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through (about 5-6 minutes). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed. Sauté the onions, garlic, and red bell pepper until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
- Make the Sauce:
- Reduce the heat to medium and pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Add Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well and let it simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Combine Everything:
- Add the cooked chicken and spinach to the skillet. Stir until the spinach wilts.
- Toss in the cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm. Pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete family meal.
Creamy Chicken Pasta
Ingredients (Serves 4-5):
- 1 pound (450g) penne or fusilli pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Why This Recipe Works:
- Balanced and Filling: Protein from chicken, carbs from pasta, and vitamins from veggies.
- Customizable: Add mushrooms, broccoli, or substitute spinach with kale.
- One-Pot Convenience: Minimal cleanup for busy families.
| Calories | Protein (g) | Carbohydrates (g) | Fiber (g) | Sugars (g) | Fat (g) | Saturated Fat (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 580 | 35 | 55 | 4 | 6 | 22 | 10 |