Easy Chicken Pasta
A quick and hearty chicken pasta dish featuring creamy soup, seasoned vegetables, and tender chicken, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner for the whole family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of oil.
- Add the chicken and brown it on all sides.
- Stir in the cream of chicken soup, water, and frozen seasoned pasta vegetable mix.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cover and cook over low heat for 5 minutes until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic and onions while browning the chicken. You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with a homemade version or a different cream soup if desired. For added nutrition, toss in some fresh spinach or kale just before serving. If you want a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes. This dish is similar to 'Casserole For The Crowd' for its simplicity and heartiness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this easy chicken pasta with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with 'Lemony Chicken Cutlets' for a delightful chicken-themed dinner. For added flavor, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over low heat until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. If it seems dry, add a splash of water or broth while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Chicken Pasta contains roughly 90 calories, with 2g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 703mg per serving (31% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pasta instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh pasta can be used, but cooking times may vary. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure the pasta is fully cooked. Just keep an eye on the texture, and add the fresh pasta a few minutes after adding the other ingredients.
What vegetables can I add to the dish?
You can customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables. Consider bell peppers, broccoli, or zucchini, which all complement the flavors well. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly, adding them early enough to cook through but not so early that they become mushy.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. Cook everything as directed, let it cool, and then store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).