Chicken Pasta Primavera

Jump to Recipe

Chicken Pasta Primavera stands out as a delightful fusion of tender chicken, crisp seasonal vegetables, and silky pasta bathed in a light, creamy sauce. This celebrated Italian-American dish captures the spirit of spring (“primavera” means “spring” in Italian) but works beautifully year-round, giving you a vibrant meal any time you crave a balance of protein, veggies, and comforting carbs.

Whether you’re looking to sharpen your weeknight dinner rotation or impress friends with a restaurant-quality meal, this chicken pasta primavera recipe delivers delicious results with flexibility and ease.

Why Make Chicken Pasta Primavera?

At its heart, chicken pasta primavera is versatile, quick, and crowd-pleasing. Here’s why it deserves a spot on your dinner table:

• Fast and Fuss-Free: This one-pot main dish comes together in about 30 minutes. It’s ideal for busy weeknights.
• Healthy and Colorful: Packed with a mix of crisp-tender vegetables like zucchini, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and snap peas, this recipe gets you a full spectrum of nutrients and flavor.
• Adaptable Ingredients: Use whatever fresh produce you have, switch up the pasta shape, or make it dairy-free by adjusting the sauce.
• Balanced, Satisfying Meal: Chicken provides lean protein, mixed vegetables bring vitamins and texture, while the pasta adds comfort and heartiness.

Ingredients for Chicken Pasta Primavera

Here’s everything you’ll need for a classic yet customizable chicken pasta primavera. Consider these as starting points, with plenty of room to swap and experiment:

*Asparagus can be switched for green beans or omitted if you’re adjusting to preference or availability.

How to Make Chicken Pasta Primavera

Bringing this dish together is straightforward and rewarding. Here’s a step-by-step guide that ensures every bite bursts with fresh flavor:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook until just al dente according to the package instructions—usually 9-11 minutes. Before draining, reserve a half cup of the starchy cooking water; it helps adjust your sauce later. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces all over with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the pan, cooking in an even layer. Brown well on all sides, about 5 to 7 minutes, until cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside, loosely covered to keep warm.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet. Toss in the garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add zucchini, bell pepper, and asparagus (or green beans), stirring occasionally for about 2 to 3 minutes. When the vegetables are just starting to soften but still bright, scatter in the cherry tomatoes and snap peas or peas. Cook everything for another 2 minutes. The vegetables should stay slightly crisp and colorful.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Deglaze

Return the cooked chicken (with any juices) to the skillet. Stir everything together, gently scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat to medium-low. Stir in the heavy cream and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix until you have a smooth, glossy sauce that coats all the chicken and vegetables. If the sauce feels thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water—you want a silky texture that glides over the pasta, not a gloppy coating.

Step 6: Toss with Pasta and Finish

Add your cooked pasta to the skillet. Using tongs or two forks, toss with the sauce and chicken-vegetable mixture until well combined. Add the fresh basil threads (saving some for garnish) and, if you like, squeeze in the juice of half a lemon for a touch of brightness. Taste and adjust seasoning—add a bit more salt, black pepper, or lemon juice as needed.

Plate immediately, shower with the remaining Parmesan, and garnish with extra basil.

Tips and Customizations for the Best Primavera

• Choose Your Pasta Wisely: Long shapes like linguine or spaghetti twirl beautifully with the creamy sauce, while short pasta like penne or rotini hold bits of chicken and veggies in every bite.
• Vary the Vegetables: Swap zucchini for yellow squash; sub spinach or kale for asparagus; try mushrooms, carrots, or broccoli florets for more depth. Use fresh produce at its peak for best results.
• Make It Lighter: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free version, try canned coconut milk or a splash of unsweetened oat or almond milk; just note the flavor will change.
• Add-Ins Worth Trying: Sun-dried tomatoes, pitted olives, artichoke hearts, or toasted pine nuts all give Primavera extra complexity and color.
• Punch Up the Protein: Swap chicken breast for boneless, skinless chicken thighs, shrimp, or sliced turkey breast; make it vegetarian with chickpeas or cannellini beans.
• Flavor Boosts: A small splash of dry white wine can be added to the pan just before the cream for subtle acidity. Freshly cracked black pepper at the end adds warmth.

How to Serve Chicken Pasta Primavera

Turn your pasta into a full meal with a few thoughtful sides:

• Pair with a simple mixed green salad, dressed with olive oil and lemon.
• Serve warm slices of crusty bread or garlic knots to soak up extra sauce.
• For wine, a light-bodied white like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc works beautifully.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Chicken pasta primavera holds up well for lunch the next day, and the flavors often deepen overnight.

• Storing: Place leftovers in airtight containers, separating into individual portions if possible. Refrigerate within two hours. Eat within 3-4 days for best taste and texture.
• Reheating: For stovetop reheating, add a splash of water, milk, or cream to loosen up the sauce. Heat gently over medium-low, stirring often. In the microwave, place the pasta in a covered, microwave-safe dish and use short (30-second) blasts, stirring in between.
• Freezing: This recipe isn’t great for freezing as the cream sauce can break and the vegetables soften too much after thawing.

Common Questions

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking fresh chicken?
Absolutely. Dice or shred rotisserie chicken and add it to the skillet with the vegetables, just to heat through before stirring in the cream and cheese.

How can I make pasta primavera gluten-free?
Use your favorite gluten-free pasta. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but check labels if you’re buying pre-made sauces or seasonings.

Is there a way to make this vegan?
Yes. Omit the chicken or use your preferred plant-based protein. Use vegan heavy cream (such as a cashew-based version) and replace Parmesan with a dairy-free option or nutritional yeast.

Chicken Pasta Primavera, Any Way You Like It

What sets chicken pasta primavera apart is how endlessly adjustable it is. Let what’s in your fridge or on your farmers’ market stand inspire you. A mix of flavor, nutrition, and color all add up to a wholesome, satisfying meal you’ll return to all year long.

Cook it fresh. Plate it hot. And enjoy every vibrant forkful—your spring-inspired dinner, anytime.