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Cheesy Chicken Pasta and Vegetables

Cheesy Chicken Pasta and Vegetables

The ultimate comfort food, Cheesy Chicken Pasta and Vegetables is a quick and easy weeknight dinner that the whole family will love! Packed with protein, veggies, and creamy cheese, it’s a dish that satisfies cravings while being nutritious. Make it tonight for a meal that everyone will ask for again and again!
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces penne pasta
  • 12 ounces broccoli and cauliflower florets
  • 3 to 4 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast
  • 1 ½ cups shredded carrots
  • 4 to 5 green onions
  • 3 to 5 cloves garlic
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 ½ to 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
  • 1 to 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet

Method
 

  1. Boil pasta according to package directions in salted water in a very large skillet or pot. In the final 2 to 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli and cauliflower florets. Drain but reserve 1/2 cup pasta water in case you need it in step 6.
  2. Return the pasta and vegetables to the cooking pot; set aside.
  3. To a large skillet, add the olive oil, chicken, and cook for about 3 minutes.
  4. Add the carrots, onions, salt, pepper, and cook for about 5 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables have softened; stir and flip intermittently to ensure even cooking.
  5. Add the garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant; stir nearly constantly.
  6. Add the chicken and carrot mixture to the large pot with the cooked pasta, broccoli, and cauliflower.
  7. Add the spinach, cheeses, and stir until cheese has all melted and spinach has wilted. Taste and check for seasoning balance and if necessary, add additional salt and/or pepper. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Storage: Recipe will keep airtight in the fridge for up to 5 days.
  • Freezing: Can you freeze this? Yes, store in an airtight container for up to 4 months.
  • Variations: Feel free to substitute vegetables based on your preference or what's in season.
  • Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or garlic bread.
  • Make-ahead: Prep the ingredients ahead of time for a quicker cooking experience.