Quick and Easy 15 minute Chicken Pasta
User Reviews
4.7
Quick and Easy 15 minute Chicken Pasta
Description
Quick and Easy 15 minute Chicken Pasta begins with cooking dry pasta in salted water until tender. Meanwhile, chicken breast strips are sautéed with chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic, seasoning with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Once browned, the chicken and vegetables are simmered with marinara sauce, allowing flavors to meld.
After simmering, the drained pasta is added to the pan, combined well with the sauce and chicken mixture. Mozzarella or Italian blend cheese is introduced last, melting from residual heat to create a lightly creamy texture. Optional Parmesan cheese can be sprinkled on top for an additional layer of sharpness.
This simple pasta dish offers a balance of protein, vegetables, and carbs in a saucy, cheesy presentation. It can be served as a quick weeknight meal that covers several nutritional bases in one pan. The method keeps components distinct but unified in flavor, with familiar Italian seasonings.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breast cut in strips
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 yellow onion chopped, medium
- 1/2 bell pepper chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese or Italian blend cheese
- 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese optional
- 3 cups pasta 1.5 cups dry pasta, cooked
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of salted water to boil, pour 1.5 cups of uncooked pasta and 1 tsp salt into the water. Cover and allow to cook for 10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, cut chicken breasts and, onion and bell peppers. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a heavy-duty pan or pot over medium-high heat. Add the onion and bell pepper and saute for 1-2 minutes or until softened. Add the garlic and sautee 30 seconds or until lightly golden. Add the chicken, salt, pepper, & garlic powder and saute until the chicken is browned and almost cooked through.
- Add the marinara sauce and allow to simmer for 5 minutes while the pan is covered. After 5 minutes, drain the water from the pasta and pour pasta on the chicken mixture. Mix well, add the cheese and turn off. The cheese will melt from the heat of the pan. If desired, broil the cheese under the broiler in the oven until bubbly.
- Top with Parmesan and enjoy!