Name: Delicious Roasted Pepper Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 10.5 ounces whole wheat penne; 2 cups diced chicken breast; 2 medium bell peppers (red and yellow), sliced; 1 medium red onion, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon herbes de Provence

Welcome to the delightful world of Roasted Pepper Chicken Pasta, a recipe that perfectly balances flavor and nutrition! This hearty dish features succulent chicken breast combined with the vibrant tastes of roasted bell peppers and onions, all tossed with whole wheat penne pasta. Not only is it a feast for the palate, but it also caters to those looking for a healthy, low-calorie meal option. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a dish to impress your friends, this Roasted Pepper Chicken Pasta is packed with essential nutrients and is a great way to add more vegetables to your diet.

The star ingredients here—roasted peppers and chicken—bring a wonderful depth to the dish. Roasting the peppers enhances their sweetness while infusing the chicken with a smoky, rich flavor that complements the nuttiness of whole wheat penne. With a preparation time of just 35 minutes, you won’t only enjoy a delicious meal, but you’ll also appreciate the ease of putting it all together. Let’s dive into the reason why this recipe has garnered attention and praise from healthy food enthusiasts.

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Pepper Chicken Pasta

Flavorful Complexity: The roasting process gives the bell peppers and onions a caramelized sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory chicken.
Health Benefits: Using whole wheat penne adds fiber to the dish, promoting digestion and keeping you feeling satiated longer.
Quick and Easy: With a total preparation time of just 35 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights!
Customizable: You can easily add additional vegetables or protein according to your taste preferences.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week—perfect for lunch or dinner!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen effectively. Start by gathering all your ingredients: whole wheat penne, diced chicken breast, bell peppers, red onion, olive oil, and herbes de Provence. A large mixing bowl will be crucial for tossing the chicken and vegetables together before roasting. Make sure to have a baking tray or sheet that can hold all the ingredients without overcrowding—this allows for even roasting. You’ll need a good pot for boiling the pasta; one that can handle ample water for cooking the penne properly. Lastly, keep some utensils handy, such as a wooden spoon or spatula for mixing and serving.

Ingredients

10.5 ounces whole wheat penne
2 cups diced chicken breast
2 medium bell peppers (red and yellow), sliced
1 medium red onion, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon herbes de Provence

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the chicken and vegetables will roast properly, achieving that perfect golden color and texture. While the oven heats, you can easily prep the ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken breast with the sliced bell peppers and red onion.

Step 2: Toss and Coat

Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and vegetables, then sprinkle with herbes de Provence. Using your hands or a spoon, toss everything together until the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated with the oil and spices. This coating is essential for achieving a beautiful roast and maximizes flavor.

Step 3: Roast to Perfection

Spread the coated chicken and vegetables onto a baking tray in a single layer. This allows the heat to circulate more evenly around them, resulting in perfectly roasted items. Place the tray in the preheated oven and let it roast for about 20 to 25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through, and the vegetables have taken on a lovely golden hue. Stir halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Boil the Penne

While the chicken and vegetables are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the whole wheat penne and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Generally, this will take around 8-10 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

After draining the pasta, return it to the serving dish. Add the roasted chicken and vegetables on top. Toss everything gently to combine, ensuring the flavors are well distributed. The vibrant colors of the dish will make it an attractive centerpiece for your dining table. Serve immediately and enjoy this nutritious meal!

Variations

Protein: Substitute the chicken with grilled shrimp or diced tofu for a vegetarian option.
Vegetables: Feel free to include additional vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition and flavor.
Spices: If you prefer a spicier kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the mix.

Cooking Notes

Make sure not to overcrowd the baking tray, as this can prevent even cooking.
If using frozen chicken, ensure it is completely thawed before starting.

Serving Suggestions

Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a touch of richness.
Pair with a crisp green salad to complement the hearty flavors of the pasta.

Tips

Always taste the pasta before draining to get that perfect al dente bite!
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approx. 400 per serving
Protein: 30 grams
Sodium: 350 mg

FAQs

Can I use regular pasta instead of whole wheat?

Absolutely! While whole wheat pasta adds more fiber, traditional pasta can be used if preferred.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze the roasted chicken and vegetables in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When reheating, you may want to add a splash of water to retain moisture.

Can I add more spices to this recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs or spices based on your personal taste to add new dimensions to the dish.

What can I substitute for herbes de Provence?

If you don’t have herbes de Provence, you can substitute with a mix of dried thyme, rosemary, and basil for a similar flavor profile.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Roasted Pepper Chicken Pasta not only offers a bright and delicious way to enjoy a healthy meal, but it also provides a perfect opportunity for culinary creativity. With its simple preparation and adaptable ingredients, this dish is destined to become a favorite in your kitchen. We encourage you to try it out, share your thoughts in the comments, or make personal tweaks to fit your tastes. Enjoy the journey of cooking and sharing this delightful recipe with friends and family!