One-Pan Creamy Chicken and Vegetable Pasta Recipe

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was originally created to serve 6. Ingredient amounts adjust automatically, but cooking times and methods remain consistent. Note that scaling may slightly affect texture or doneness.

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 1/2 teaspoons plus a pinch of salt, divided, or to taste
• 3 1/2 cups water
• 12 ounces dried ziti
• 2 cups mixed fresh vegetables (e.g., asparagus, matchstick carrots, sliced onions)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon Italian herb seasoning blend
• 1 teaspoon chicken soup base (such as Better than Bouillon)
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 cups chopped cooked chicken
• 1 packed cup chopped fresh spinach
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh basil sprigs for garnish

Directions

1. Prepare all ingredients so they are ready to use.
2. In a Dutch oven over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the panko breadcrumbs and a pinch of salt, stirring occasionally until golden brown, about 3 to 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. Wipe out the Dutch oven with paper towels. Add 3 1/2 cups water and 1 1/2 teaspoons salt over medium-high heat. Stir in the ziti and bring to a gentle boil, uncovered, stirring occasionally for approximately 6 minutes.
4. Add the vegetables, garlic, Italian herb seasoning, chicken soup base, and black pepper. Return to a boil and cook until the pasta and vegetables are tender but not overcooked and the water is mostly absorbed, about 4 minutes.
5. Mix in the cooked chicken and chopped spinach, cooking for an additional minute.
6. Remove from heat, then stir in the sour cream and grated Parmesan until creamy and well combined.
7. Transfer to a serving bowl, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with the reserved toasted panko, and garnish with fresh basil. Serve warm.

Cooks Tips

• If convenient, use a 12-ounce bag of frozen mixed vegetables instead of fresh.
• Grate Parmesan yourself if possible, as pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent proper melting.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 343
• Fat: 17g (22% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 7g (33% DV)
• Cholesterol: 66mg (22% DV)
• Sodium: 279mg (12% DV)
• Carbohydrates: 28g (10% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 3g (11% DV)
• Total Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 19g (38% DV)
• Vitamin C: 17mg (19% DV)
• Calcium: 144mg (11% DV)
• Iron: 2mg (13% DV)
• Potassium: 310mg (7% DV)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Consult your doctor or dietitian if following a medically restrictive diet.

The Story Behind One-Pan Creamy Chicken and Vegetable Pasta

One-Pan Creamy Chicken and Vegetable Pasta is a relatively modern creation, emerging from the fusion of convenience-focused American home cooking and classic Italian pasta traditions. Its origin lies in the need for quick, wholesome meals that could satisfy busy families without sacrificing flavor. While Italian cuisine has long celebrated rich, creamy pasta dishes, the one-pan approach simplifies the process by combining the pasta, chicken, and vegetables in a single pot, reducing cleanup and cooking time. This style of cooking gained widespread popularity in the early 21st century as one-pot meals became a staple for home cooks seeking efficiency without compromising on taste.

Regional Characteristics

Though rooted in American culinary innovation, this dish reflects a blend of regional influences. The use of Parmesan cheese and Italian herb seasoning nods to classic Italian flavors, while the inclusion of panko breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping reflects Japanese influence on contemporary American cuisine. Vegetables such as asparagus, spinach, and carrots are often chosen for their seasonal availability in the United States, making the dish flexible and adaptable to local produce. This regional customization allows cooks across the country to tailor the pasta to their preferences while maintaining its creamy, comforting character.

Distinguishing Features Compared to Similar Dishes

What sets this dish apart from similar pasta recipes is its one-pan method and the combination of creamy sauce with fresh vegetables and cooked chicken. Unlike traditional baked pasta dishes such as lasagna or casseroles, this recipe is cooked entirely on the stovetop, allowing the sauce to coat the pasta evenly while keeping the vegetables crisp-tender. Additionally, the use of sour cream along with Parmesan cheese creates a distinct tangy richness that differentiates it from the heavier, solely cream-based sauces often found in Italian-American pasta dishes.

Where Its Typically Served

This pasta is commonly served as a family dinner at home due to its simplicity and quick preparation time. It also appears on casual dining restaurant menus, particularly in establishments that focus on comfort food or Italian-American cuisine. Its versatility makes it suitable for weeknight meals, potlucks, and even lunch gatherings. Often, it is presented in a large serving bowl with a garnish of fresh basil and toasted breadcrumbs, emphasizing both visual appeal and texture.

Interesting Facts

• The one-pan cooking technique not only saves time but also intensifies flavors by allowing the pasta to absorb the seasoned cooking liquid.
• Panko breadcrumbs, a Japanese ingredient, are used here to add crunch, illustrating how global influences have shaped modern American comfort food.
• Leftover chicken and vegetables can be seamlessly incorporated, making it an ideal recipe for reducing food waste.
• Although labeled as a pasta dish, the recipes balance of protein, vegetables, and starch aligns it with complete, nutritious meals popular in contemporary home cooking.
• The combination of sour cream and Parmesan cheese gives the sauce a creamy tang that is less common in traditional Italian recipes, making this uniquely American in flavor profile.

FAQ about One-Pan Creamy Chicken and Vegetable Pasta Recipe