Pasta Primavera with Grilled Chicken

Name: Pasta Primavera with Grilled Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 carrot, julienned; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; Red pepper flakes, optional

Highlighted under: Instant Meals Recipes

I absolutely love making Pasta Primavera with Grilled Chicken during the spring when vegetables are at their freshest. The vibrant colors and variety of textures make this dish not only visually stunning but also delicious. By grilling the chicken, I infuse a smoky flavor that complements the crisp veggies perfectly. Tossing everything with a light garlic and olive oil sauce elevates the dish without overpowering the natural freshness of the ingredients. This is a meal my family enjoys, and I can whip it up in no time!

Created by

Ninas

Last updated on 2026-02-12T13:54:18.910Z

When I first tried making Pasta Primavera, I was amazed at how easy it was to create such a vibrant and flavorful dish. The key is to use seasonal veggies and to grill the chicken just until cooked through, so it remains juicy. I recommend adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the oil for a hint of heat, which balances the sweetness of the vegetables beautifully.

Another important tip is to reserve a little pasta water when you drain the pasta. This starchy water can help bind the sauce to the pasta perfectly. It’s a trick I learned from my grandmother, and it never fails!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Fresh seasonal vegetables create vibrant flavors and textures
Grilled chicken adds a smoky depth to the dish
Light garlic oil dressing maintains a healthy profile while providing flavor

      

Maximizing Flavor with Seasoning

Properly seasoning your chicken is essential for enhancing the overall flavor of the dish. I recommend marinating the chicken breasts in olive oil, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy chicken. If you want to elevate this even further, consider adding herbs such as thyme or rosemary to your marinade for an aromatic punch.

When grilling the chicken, make sure your grill is at medium-high heat. This temperature allows for a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside moist. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, but be aware to watch for those telltale grill marks; they indicate that it's time to flip. Overcooking can lead to dry chicken, so a meat thermometer can help you achieve the perfect doneness at 165°F.

Perfecting the Pasta

Cooking the pasta to the right texture is crucial for integrating all the elements of this dish harmoniously. I find that cooking the penne pasta al dente yields the best results. This usually takes about 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions suggest. To check, you should taste the pasta—there should be a slight firmness in the bite while still being tender. Remember to reserve a cup of the pasta water before draining, as it will come in handy later to adjust the sauce consistency.

To prevent the pasta from sticking together, toss it with a little olive oil immediately after draining. This keeps the noodles separate and allows the light sauce to cling better during the tossing stage. If you prepare the pasta in advance, just be sure to add it to the skillet with enough reserved water so the dish doesn't dry out during the final steps.

Vegetable Varieties and Cooking Techniques

In Pasta Primavera, the variety of colors and textures is key. You can certainly swap in seasonal vegetables according to your preference. For instance, asparagus or green beans can be delightful substitutes for broccoli, while snap peas offer a lovely crunch. Just make sure to cut all vegetables into uniform sizes to promote even cooking; this way, they will be tender yet still vibrant and crisp when served.

Sautéing the vegetables in olive oil over medium heat allows them to develop flavor beautifully. Keep an eye on them while they cook; you want them tender but not mushy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes, and you can tell they're done when they become bright and glossy. If you prefer a bit of char, consider adding a minute or two on high heat to enhance that smoky, grilled flavor.

Ingredients

For the Pasta and Chicken

8 oz penne pasta
2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Vegetables

1 bell pepper, sliced
1 zucchini, diced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 carrot, julienned
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

For the Sauce

3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Red pepper flakes, optional

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.

Grill the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Remove from grill and let rest before slicing.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat another tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the bell pepper, zucchini, broccoli, carrot, and cherry tomatoes. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until veggies are tender.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta, minced garlic, and grilled chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding a little reserved pasta water to create a light sauce. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, try to use a mix of seasonal vegetables. You can also substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Pasta Primavera with Grilled Chicken is a fantastic candidate for meal prep. You can grill the chicken and chop all vegetables ahead of time, storing them separately in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to serve, simply heat the veggies in a skillet, toss with the pasta, and add the warm chicken to create a fresh meal in minutes.

If you're short on time during the week, consider making a larger batch of the pasta and vegetable mixture. This will hold well in the refrigerator; just be cautious not to overcook the vegetables when reheating to preserve their bright appearance and crunch.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to get creative with the flavors in this dish. You can add a splash of lemon juice or zest when combining everything for a fresh brightness that complements the garlic oil sauce beautifully. A dash of balsamic vinegar while sautéing your veggies can also introduce a lovely depth that contrasts well with the sweetness of the cherry tomatoes.

Another easy way to adapt this recipe is to switch up the cheese. If you're not a fan of Parmesan, consider alternatives like feta or goat cheese to bring a different creaminess. Nut allergies? You can easily omit the cheese altogether or replace it with a plant-based alternative to maintain that creamy component.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge where they will last for about 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of olive oil or a bit of broth to revive the sauce, ensuring it doesn’t dry out. Aim for a gentle reheat either in the microwave or over low heat on the stove to maintain the integrity of the ingredients.

For longer storage, consider freezing the pasta and vegetables separately. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. Just be cautious with the reheating process; the chicken may need a little extra time to remain juicy, and freshly sautéed veggies should ideally be added after the pasta is heated through.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with any seasonal vegetables you love.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

You can replace the chicken with grilled tofu and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan substitute.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components ahead and combine them just before serving to keep everything fresh.

→ What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Penne works well, but you can use any pasta shape you have on hand, such as fusilli or farfalle.