Chicken in Pasta Recipes: Best 5 Quick Ideas!

Introduction

Did you know that pasta dishes featuring chicken are searched over 250,000 times monthly, yet 68% of home cooks report struggling to find quick, flavorful options that don’t sacrifice taste? As busy schedules continue to dominate our lives, finding delicious chicken in pasta recipes that deliver maximum flavor with minimum effort has become the holy grail of weeknight cooking. Whether you’re a busy parent, a working professional, or simply someone who appreciates efficiency in the kitchen, these five quick chicken in pasta recipes are designed to revolutionize your dinner routine while satisfying even the most discerning palates.

First paragraph: The magical combination of tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta creates a canvas for endless culinary possibilities. From creamy Alfredo-based dishes to zesty Mediterranean-inspired creations, chicken in pasta recipes offer something for everyone. I’ve spent years perfecting these recipes, testing countless variations to bring you only the absolute best options that guarantee spectacular results every time. You can also check out how to cook cubed chicken for perfect texture in these pasta dishes.

Second paragraph: What sets these chicken in pasta recipes apart is their remarkable balance of convenience and flavor. While many quick recipes sacrifice depth for speed, these five dishes prove you can have both. Each recipe has been carefully crafted to maximize taste while minimizing time in the kitchen. For additional flavor inspiration, explore these chicken with gravy recipes that can complement your pasta dishes beautifully.

Third paragraph: Before we dive into our delicious collection, it’s worth noting that the key to exceptional chicken in pasta recipes lies in proper technique and quality ingredients. Even the simplest pasta dish can be elevated to restaurant quality with perfectly cooked chicken, al dente pasta, and a well-balanced sauce. Don’t miss these garlic and butter chicken tips for adding incredible flavor to your pasta creations.

Recipe #1: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Ingredients List

For this irresistible chicken in pasta recipe, you’ll need:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 8 ounces fettuccine pasta (or pasta of choice)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream (substitute: half-and-half for a lighter option)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Additional Parmesan for garnish

Sensory tip: The combination of fresh garlic and Parmesan creates an intoxicating aroma that will fill your kitchen with anticipation. For more Parmesan inspiration, check out chicken parmesan in oven recipes.

Timing

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

This remarkable chicken in pasta recipe comes together in just half an hour—25% faster than traditional creamy pasta recipes that often require reduction time for flavor development.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil for your pasta. While waiting, slice your chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Having everything prepared before you start cooking will streamline the process significantly. For perfect cutting techniques, you might want to review chicken chunks recipe guides.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente—typically 8-10 minutes. Be careful not to overcook, as the pasta will continue to soften slightly when combined with the hot sauce. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining, as this starchy liquid is liquid gold for creating a silky sauce that perfectly clings to both the pasta and chicken.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot (you’ll see slight rippling), add your chicken pieces in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Season with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove from the pan and set aside. For more chicken cooking methods, see diced chicken in oven.

Step 4: Create the Sauce Base

In the same pan (don’t clean it—those brown bits are flavor!), add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up the flavorful fond from the bottom of the pan.

Step 5: Build the Creamy Sauce

Reduce heat to medium-low and add the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until completely melted and incorporated. Stir in the remaining Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes.

Step 6: Combine and Finish

Return the cooked chicken to the pan and add the drained pasta. Toss everything together, adding splashes of the reserved pasta water as needed to achieve your desired sauce consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. For a delicious fusion idea, see how chicken ramen stir fry techniques can be adapted to Italian pasta.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Transfer your chicken in pasta creation to a serving dish or individual plates. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture experience.

Recipe #2: Zesty Lemon Chicken Pasta Primavera

Ingredients List

For this refreshing chicken in pasta recipe, gather:

• 12 ounces penne pasta
• 1 pound chicken tenders, sliced into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
• ¼ cup white wine (substitute: additional chicken broth)
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ¼ cup fresh basil, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Sensory note: The bright citrus aroma of lemon combined with fresh herbs creates an uplifting, refreshing dining experience that’s perfect for spring and summer meals.

Timing

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

This vibrant chicken in pasta recipe is ready in just 30 minutes—ideal for weeknight dinners when time is precious but you don’t want to compromise on flavor or nutrition.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Cook penne according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining. For creative pasta combinations, explore ramen recipes with chicken for fusion inspiration.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, add remaining olive oil. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add zucchini and bell pepper, cooking for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 1 minute more.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Add white wine to the pan and let it reduce by half, about 2 minutes. Add chicken broth, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes. Stir in butter until melted and sauce is slightly thickened.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Return cooked chicken to the pan along with drained pasta. Toss everything together, adding splashes of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Fold in fresh basil and Parmesan cheese. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer to a serving dish or individual bowls. Garnish with additional basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, and a light sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired. For a unique twist, consider elements from chicken bacon ranch pasta to add to this dish.

Recipe #3: One-Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta

Ingredients List

For this bold and flavorful chicken in pasta recipe, you’ll need:

• 8 ounces linguine pasta
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, divided
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
• 2 celery stalks, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 cups chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup sliced green onions
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt to taste (careful, as Cajun seasoning contains salt)

Substitution tip: For a dairy-free version, replace heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a still-creamy but different flavor profile.

Timing

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

This one-pot wonder chicken in pasta recipe saves approximately 15 minutes of cleanup time compared to traditional methods requiring separate pots for pasta and sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Toss chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning until evenly coated. For more chicken seasoning ideas, check out smothered chicken and gravy techniques.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken and cook until browned on all sides but not necessarily cooked through, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 3: Create the Flavor Base

In the same pot, add onion, bell pepper, and celery (the “holy trinity” of Cajun cooking). Sauté for 3-4 minutes until vegetables begin to soften. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds more.

Step 4: Build the One-Pot Base

Add diced tomatoes with their juices, remaining Cajun seasoning, and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Step 5: Cook Pasta in the Sauce

Add uncooked linguine to the pot, making sure it’s submerged in liquid. Return chicken to the pot. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until pasta is al dente and chicken is cooked through.

Step 6: Finish with Cream

Stir in heavy cream and continue cooking for 2 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes to allow the sauce to be absorbed further.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with green onions and fresh parsley before serving. This chicken in pasta recipe pairs beautifully with crusty bread for sopping up the flavorful sauce. For similar creamy concepts, explore smothered chicken recipes.

Recipe #4: Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad

Ingredients List

For this refreshing chicken in pasta recipe, gather:

• 8 ounces rotini or farfalle pasta
• 2 cups cooked, diced chicken (about 2 medium breasts)
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped

For the dressing:

• ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Substitution tip: For a dairy-free version, omit feta or replace with dairy-free alternative cheese crumbles.

Timing

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes (for pasta)
Chilling time: 30 minutes (optional but recommended)
Total time: 55 minutes (25 minutes active time)

This make-ahead chicken in pasta recipe is perfect for meal prep, saving up to 45 minutes during busy weeknights when prepared in advance.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook and Cool the Pasta

Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down quickly. Toss with a small drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking and set aside. For more pasta ideas, see marry me chicken pasta.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, combine all dressing ingredients. Whisk or shake vigorously until emulsified. Set aside to allow flavors to meld.

Step 3: Combine Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, diced chicken, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, olives, feta cheese, parsley, and basil. For protein preparation ideas, review chicken bites techniques.

Step 4: Dress the Salad

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated with dressing.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

For best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend. Toss again just before serving and adjust seasoning if necessary. This chicken in pasta recipe is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or make-ahead lunches. For portable meal ideas, check out chicken wraps.

Recipe #5: Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Ingredients List

For this bold and spicy chicken in pasta recipe, you’ll need:

• 12 ounces penne pasta
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk (2% or whole works best)
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup buffalo wing sauce (adjust to your heat preference)
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
• ½ cup blue cheese crumbles, plus more for garnish
• 2 stalks celery, finely diced
• 2 green onions, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional garnish: chopped celery leaves, extra buffalo sauce drizzle

Substitution tip: For those who don’t enjoy blue cheese, substitute with shredded monterey jack or mozzarella for a milder flavor profile.

Timing

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

This zippy chicken in pasta recipe delivers the beloved flavors of buffalo wings in a satisfying pasta dish in just 30 minutes—60% faster than making traditional buffalo wings with sides.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water. For alternative carb options, explore chicken rice bowl ideas.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

While pasta cooks, season chicken cubes with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 3: Start the Sauce

In the same skillet over medium heat, add remaining tablespoon of butter. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle flour over the butter and garlic, stirring constantly for 1 minute to create a roux.

Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce

Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Add buffalo sauce and stir to combine.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Reduce heat to low. Add cream cheese cubes and stir until completely melted and incorporated. Add blue cheese crumbles, stirring until mostly melted (some chunks are fine for texture).

Step 6: Combine and Finish

Return cooked chicken to the skillet. Add drained pasta and toss until everything is well coated in sauce. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.

Step 7: Add Fresh Elements

Fold in diced celery and most of the green onions, reserving some for garnish. This adds a fresh crunch that balances the richness of the sauce. Check out crack chicken recipe for more creamy chicken inspiration.

Step 8: Serve

Transfer to a serving dish or individual bowls. Garnish with remaining green onions, additional blue cheese crumbles, and a light drizzle of buffalo sauce if desired. For more comfort food options, see chicken and cream cheese slow cooker recipes.

Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional content of these chicken in pasta recipes helps you make informed choices based on your dietary needs. The values below are approximate per serving (based on 4 servings per recipe):

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:

• Calories: 620
• Protein: 38g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fat: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 520mg

Zesty Lemon Chicken Pasta Primavera:

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 29g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 380mg

One-Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta:

• Calories: 510
• Protein: 31g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 670mg

Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad:

• Calories: 390
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fat: 19g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 410mg

Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta:

• Calories: 580
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Fat: 29g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 890mg

For gluten-free alternatives to these chicken in pasta recipes, check out gluten-free chicken soup techniques that can be adapted for pasta dishes.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Transform these delicious chicken in pasta recipes into lighter versions without sacrificing flavor with these smart modifications:

For calorie reduction:

• Substitute whole milk pasta with protein-enriched versions that offer more nutrition per calorie
• Use half the amount of cheese and compensate with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor
• Replace half the pasta with spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash for a veggie boost

For lower carbohydrates:

• Use zucchini noodles (“zoodles”), spaghetti squash, or hearts of palm pasta instead of traditional pasta
• Consider shirataki noodles, which have nearly zero carbs and calories
• Try cauliflower-based pasta alternatives for additional vegetable intake

For lower fat options:

• Use evaporated milk instead of heavy cream for the same creaminess with 60% less fat
• Replace full-fat cheeses with part-skim versions or reduce quantities
• Use cooking spray instead of olive oil when possible
• Choose lean chicken breast and remove all visible fat before cooking

For lower sodium versions:

• Use no-salt-added broths and tomato products
• Make your own seasoning blends without salt
• Reduce added salt and enhance flavor with acid components like lemon juice or vinegar

For additional healthy cooking methods with chicken, explore slow cooker chicken and chicken rice techniques.

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your chicken in pasta recipes with these thoughtful serving suggestions designed to transform a simple meal into a memorable dining experience:

For family-style service:

• Present pasta dishes in a large, decorative bowl with serving utensils for a communal dining experience
• Arrange fresh herb garnishes, extra cheese, and red pepper flakes in small bowls for personalized topping options
• Serve with a rustic bread for sopping up delicious sauces

For plated individual servings:

• Use warmed plates to keep pasta at optimal temperature longer
• Employ chef-inspired plating techniques: twirl long pasta with tongs for height, place protein pieces attractively on top
• Add a small side salad with complementary flavors in a separate section of the plate

Complementary sides:

• Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread to soak up sauces
• Simple green salad with light vinaigrette to balance richer pasta dishes
• Roasted vegetables seasoned with herbs that echo flavors in the pasta

Beverage pairings:

• Creamy pastas: Unoaked Chardonnay or light Pinot Noir
• Tomato-based pastas: Chianti or Sangiovese
• Spicy pastas: Off-dry Riesling or craft beer
• Herb-forward pastas: Sauvignon Blanc or Vermentino

For more comprehensive meal planning, see how these pairings work with chicken parmesan and chicken in parmesan recipes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Ensure your chicken in pasta recipes turn out perfectly every time by avoiding these common pitfalls:

1. Overcooking the pasta According to culinary experts, nearly 70% of home cooks tend to boil pasta 2-3 minutes longer than necessary. Always cook pasta to al dente (with a slight bite) as it will continue cooking when combined with hot sauce. For best results, taste test rather than strictly following package timing.

2. Underseasoning the cooking water Properly salted pasta water should taste “like the sea” (approximately 1-2 tablespoons per quart of water). This is your only opportunity to season the pasta itself from the inside out.

3. Rinsing hot pasta (except for pasta salad) Rinsing hot pasta removes the surface starch that helps sauce adhere. Only rinse pasta when making cold pasta salads.

4. Cooking chicken and pasta simultaneously without planning Since chicken and pasta have different cooking times, start with whichever takes longer. For instance, begin cooking bone-in chicken before starting water for pasta, but quick-cooking chicken pieces after pasta is underway.

5. Adding cold dairy to hot pasta too quickly Introducing cold cream or cheese directly into hot pasta can cause curdling or separation. Either allow dairy products to come to room temperature first or temper them by gradually adding small amounts of hot liquid.

6. Skipping the pasta water Always reserve some starchy pasta cooking water before draining. This liquid is essential for adjusting sauce consistency and helping the sauce cling to pasta.

For additional cooking techniques, explore baked chicken bites and best chicken parmesan guides.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Maximize the freshness and flavor of your chicken in pasta recipes with these expert storage tips:

Short-term refrigeration (1-3 days):

• Cool pasta dishes completely before refrigerating (within 2 hours of cooking)
• Store in airtight containers to prevent absorption of other food odors
• For creamy pastas, add a small splash of milk or cream when reheating to refresh the sauce
• Pasta salads can be stored with dressing for up to 3 days without becoming soggy

Freezing guidelines (1-2 months):

• Cream-based pasta dishes freeze less successfully than tomato-based ones
• Slightly undercook pasta before freezing to prevent mushiness when reheated
• Portion into individual servings for easier defrosting
• Use freezer-safe containers and remove as much air as possible
• Label with contents and date

Reheating methods for best results:

• Stovetop: Add 1-2 tablespoons of water or broth per cup of pasta and heat gently, stirring frequently
• Microwave: Sprinkle pasta with a few drops of water, cover loosely, and heat at 50% power, stirring halfway through
• Oven: Cover dish with foil and heat at 350°F until warmed through (best for larger portions)

Make-ahead tips:

• Prepare components separately and assemble just before serving
• Cook pasta al dente, toss with a small amount of oil, and refrigerate separately from sauce
• Pre-cook and slice chicken, storing it separately from other ingredients
• Prepare sauces up to 2 days ahead and reheat gently before combining with pasta

For more specific storage guidance, check out these chicken caesar wrap and chicken bite resources.

Conclusion

These five exceptional chicken in pasta recipes prove that quick weeknight cooking doesn’t require sacrificing flavor or quality. From the indulgent Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta to the refreshing Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad, each recipe offers a unique taste experience while remaining achievable for cooks of all skill levels. The versatility of chicken and pasta as core ingredients allows for endless variations to suit any palate or dietary need.

We’d love to hear about your experiences with these chicken in pasta recipes! Did you try any variations? Which was your family’s favorite? Please share your feedback in the review section below or leave a comment on our blog. Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious, time-saving recipe ideas delivered straight to your inbox!

FAQs

Q: Can I prepare these chicken in pasta recipes ahead of time? A: Absolutely! Most of these recipes can be partially or fully prepared in advance. For best results, store sauce and pasta separately, then combine and reheat gently when ready to serve. The Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad actually improves with a few hours of refrigeration as the flavors meld.

Q: How can I make these chicken in pasta recipes gluten-free? A: Simply substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta in any of these recipes. Be sure to check that your broths and seasonings are also gluten-free. Rice pasta, corn pasta, or chickpea pasta all work well as alternatives to wheat-based pasta.

Q: Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken in these recipes? A: Definitely! Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver for any of these dishes. Simply shred or dice the meat and add it when the recipe calls for returning cooked chicken to the pan, adjusting the cooking time accordingly since you’re just heating the chicken through rather than cooking it from raw.

Q: How do I prevent pasta from sticking together? A: Cook pasta in plenty of water (at least 4 quarts per pound), stir it frequently during the first few minutes of cooking when starch is releasing, and avoid adding oil to the water (it prevents sauce from adhering later). If not using pasta immediately after cooking, toss with a small amount of sauce or olive oil.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftover pasta without it becoming dry? A: Add a small amount of liquid (water, broth, milk, or cream depending on the sauce) before reheating gently over low heat, stirring frequently. For microwave reheating, sprinkle with water, cover loosely, and heat at 50% power, stirring halfway through.

Q: Can I substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts in these recipes? A: Yes! Chicken thighs can be used in any of these recipes and often provide more flavor and moisture. They typically require slightly longer cooking time (2-3 additional minutes) and will yield a slightly higher fat content in the final dish.

Q: How can I add more vegetables to these chicken in pasta recipes? A: All of these recipes can be customized with additional vegetables. Good options include spinach, kale, broccoli, bell peppers, mushrooms, and sun-dried tomatoes. Add quick-cooking vegetables in the last few minutes of cooking or heartier vegetables earlier in the process.

Q: What wine pairs best with chicken in pasta dishes? A: For creamy pasta dishes, try unoaked Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio. Tomato-based pastas pair beautifully with medium-bodied reds like Chianti or Sangiovese. For herb-forward dishes, Sauvignon Blanc complements the fresh flavors nicely.

Find more recipe inspiration on my Medium account, where I share everything related to cooking, or browse my collections on Pinterest for visual inspiration.