Pasta with chicken and zucchini

Pasta with Chicken and Zucchini - A Delicious and Hearty Recipe

When it comes to meals that combine speed with flavor, pasta with chicken and zucchini is a perfect choice. This recipe is more than just a simple combination of ingredients; it is an explosion of flavors, textures, and colors that transforms an ordinary lunch or dinner into something special. Moreover, it is a versatile recipe that can be adapted to personal preferences.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients you need:

- 200 g pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli - the choice is yours)
- 500 g chicken breast (or boneless thighs if you prefer juicier meat)
- 1 medium zucchini (about 250 g)
- 2 medium tomatoes
- 200 g tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought - make sure it is of good quality)
- 2 cloves of garlic (for intense flavor)
- 1 small bunch of parsley (must be fresh for a vibrant taste)
- 2 tablespoons of sour cream (for a creamy sauce)
- 1 teaspoon of peperoncino (or to taste)
- Olive oil (for cooking and seasoning)
- Salt (to taste)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Recipe story:

It is said that pasta was invented out of a desire to bring comfort and pleasure to everyday meals. Regardless of their origin, pasta has managed to integrate into numerous culinary cultures. This recipe is a perfect combination of traditional and modern, with fresh vegetables adding extra nutrients and a touch of freshness. It is a perfect choice for a comforting yet healthy meal.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. When the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. It is important not to overcook them, as they will continue to cook in the sauce.

2. Preparing the ingredients: While the pasta is boiling, wash the chicken breast and cut it into cubes of about 2-3 cm. This will ensure even cooking. Clean and wash the zucchini, then slice it thinly. You can peel the tomatoes (if you wish) and cut them into cubes.

3. Cooking the chicken: In a large skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil. When the oil is hot, add a whole clove of garlic (to infuse the flavor) and the cut chicken breast. Cook the chicken until it is golden on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Adding the vegetables: Remove the garlic clove from the skillet and add the sliced zucchini and tomatoes. Stir everything and cook over medium heat for 5 minutes, until the zucchini is slightly soft.

5. Preparing the sauce: Add the tomato sauce over the chicken and vegetables, along with your preferred spices (dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper). Mix well and let it simmer on low heat for 5 minutes. Add the chopped parsley and sour cream, stirring gently to create a creamy sauce.

6. Finalizing the dish: When the pasta is ready, drain it and drizzle with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Add the chicken and zucchini sauce over the pasta and mix well so that the pasta is evenly coated.

7. Serving: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and, if you wish, grated parmesan on top. Offer a glass of white wine or a cold lemonade alongside to complete the meal.

Practical tips:

- Choosing the pasta: Spaghetti or penne are the most popular, but you can also experiment with whole grain or gluten-free pasta, depending on your dietary preferences.
- Vegetarian option: If you want a vegetarian option, you can replace the chicken breast with tofu or mushrooms, which absorb the sauce's flavors very well.
- Tricks for a more flavorful sauce: Add a few drops of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to the tomato sauce for an umami note.
- Storage: If you have leftover pasta, you can keep it in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water or oil to avoid drying out.

Nutritional benefits:

This recipe is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. Chicken breast provides lean protein, essential for building muscle mass, while zucchini brings an important supply of vitamins and minerals, being low in calories. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, and the sour cream adds a bit of creaminess without being overly fatty.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use whole grain pasta? Yes, whole grain pasta is a healthy option and adds extra fiber.
- How can I reheat leftovers? The best method is to reheat them on low heat in a skillet, adding a little oil or water to make them juicy.
- Can I add other vegetables? Sure! Bell peppers, eggplant, or mushrooms would perfectly complement the recipe.
- Is this recipe suitable for vegans? If you replace the sour cream with a plant-based alternative and the chicken with tofu or vegetables, yes!

Unique variation:

To add a touch of originality, you can try adding a few slices of lemon to the tomato sauce to give it a pleasant acidity. This will balance the flavors and make the dish even more delicious.

Enjoy this simple yet delicious recipe, and let your loved ones indulge in a meal cooked with love!