Zucchini Chicken Recipe

Welcome! Today, we’re going to explore a delightful and hearty dish that’s perfect for any season – Zucchini Chicken with your Pasta of Choice. This recipe is a twist on the traditional Zucchini Chicken Bowtie Pasta, allowing you to customize it with your favorite pasta. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients:

• 8 oz (225g) Pasta of Choice: You can choose any pasta you like. Each type of pasta will give a different texture and shape to your dish. For example, spaghetti for a classic feel, penne for a good sauce hold, or fusilli for a fun twist. The choice is yours!
• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: Chicken is a great source of lean protein. It has a mild flavor that absorbs the sauce well.
• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half moons: Zucchini adds a fresh, slightly sweet flavor and a soft texture. It’s also packed with nutrients!
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic gives a robust and aromatic flavor that infuses the entire dish.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth: This adds a savory depth to the sauce.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: Cream gives the sauce a rich, velvety texture and a mild, milky flavor.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Olive oil is used for sautéing. It has a fruity, slightly peppery flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste: These basic seasonings enhance the flavors of the other ingredients.
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional): Fresh herbs add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.

Optional Ingredients:

• Sun-dried tomatoes: These can add a tangy, sweet flavor and a chewy texture.
• Mushrooms: They can contribute an earthy flavor and a meaty texture.
• Spinach: This would add a mild, slightly bitter flavor and extra nutrients.
• Red pepper flakes: For those who like it spicy, this would add a fiery kick.

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Start by cooking your pasta of choice according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which means it’s cooked so it’s still firm when bitten. This is important as the pasta will continue to cook later when mixed with the sauce. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prep the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, you can start on the chicken. Season your bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper to taste. This simple seasoning allows the natural flavor of the chicken to shine through.
3. Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet. Cook the chicken until it’s browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. This process helps seal in the juices of the chicken, keeping it moist and flavorful.
4. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. This helps pick up any flavor left behind by the chicken. Add the sliced zucchini and sauté for 3-4 minutes until just tender. The zucchini should still have a slight crunch to provide a contrast to the soft pasta. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter.
5. Combine Ingredients: Now, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet, stirring to combine. The broth and cream create a silky, flavorful base for our sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the cooked chicken back into the skillet. This allows the chicken to soak up the sauce and become even more flavorful.
6. Add Pasta and Cheese: It’s time to add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and gently toss everything together. The heat from the pasta and sauce will melt the cheese, creating a wonderfully creamy and thick sauce. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve: Finally, garnish your dish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. This adds a pop of color and a fresh, herby flavor that cuts through the richness of the dish. Serve your Zucchini Chicken with Pasta of Choice hot, and enjoy!

This recipe serves about 4 people. Adjust quantities as needed for more or fewer servings. Enjoy your meal!

Remember, the beauty of this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta and optional ingredients. Each variation will bring a unique flavor and texture to your dish.