Summer Herb Chicken Pasta

Cooking during the summer months offers an opportunity to embrace the beauty of seasonal ingredients. Fresh produce is at its peak, and incorporating these vibrant colors and flavors into your meals can elevate your dining experience. The essence of summer cooking lies in the use of ingredients that are not only delicious but also nourishing. Seasonal fruits and vegetables are often more flavorful and nutrient-dense than their off-season counterparts, allowing you to create meals that are both satisfying and health-conscious.

Warm weather dining just got better with this vibrant Summer Herb Chicken Pasta. Perfect for sunny days, this dish pairs tender chicken with fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, creating a colorful and flavorful meal. Ideal for picnics or casual dinners, it’s light yet satisfying and can be customized to your taste! Embrace the essence of summer cooking by using seasonal ingredients, and let this delightful recipe refresh your dining experience. Enjoy the simple joys of summer with every delicious bite!

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Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)

2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons

1 bell pepper (any color), diced

1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper, to taste

Zest and juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

Prepare the Pasta:

- In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil.

- Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

- Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Cook the Chicken:

- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.

- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

- Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and golden brown on the outside.

- Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips.

Sauté the Vegetables:

- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.

- Add the minced garlic, followed by the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced zucchini, and diced bell pepper.

- Sauté the mixture for about 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the cherry tomatoes begin to burst.

Combine All Ingredients:

- Add the drained pasta, sliced chicken, chopped basil, parsley, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables.

- Gently toss the ingredients together, incorporating the reserved pasta water a little at a time until a light sauce forms that evenly coats the pasta.

Add the Cheese:

- Evenly sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss gently until everything is well combined.

- Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Serve:

- Plate the pasta into serving bowls and garnish with extra fresh basil and additional Parmesan on top if desired.

- Enjoy your refreshing Summer Herb Chicken Pasta with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 30 min | 4 servings