Chicken and Veggie Pasta with Rice is a hearty dish combining tender chicken, colorful vegetables, pasta, and rice in a light, flavorful sauce. This fusion meal is both filling and nourishing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is easy to make, versatile, and packed with nutrients from the vegetables. It is perfect for busy evenings and can be adjusted to use what you have on hand.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
chicken breast or thighs
mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
pasta (penne or fusilli)
cooked rice
olive oil
garlic
onion
chicken broth
soy sauce
parsley
Directions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic and onion until fragrant.
- Add chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Stir in vegetables and cook until tender-crisp.
- Add chicken broth and soy sauce; bring to a simmer.
- Add cooked rice and pasta; stir until well combined and heated through.
- Sprinkle with parsley before serving.
Servings and timing
Serves 4
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken.
- Add spinach or kale for extra greens.
- Substitute quinoa or couscous for rice.
Storage/reheating
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water.
FAQs
Can I use leftover rice?
Yes, this is a great recipe for using up leftover rice.
What vegetables work best?
Any quick-cooking vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or snap peas work well.
Is this dish gluten-free?
No, but you can use gluten-free pasta and tamari instead of soy sauce.
Can I freeze this?
It is best enjoyed fresh, but can be frozen for up to 2 months.
How do I add more flavor?
Add a squeeze of lemon juice or sprinkle with Parmesan.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, add it at the end just to heat through.
Does it work as a meal prep?
Yes, it reheats well and makes a balanced meal.
Can I omit the rice?
Yes, simply double the pasta or add another grain.
What sauce alternatives can I use?
Try pesto, tomato sauce, or teriyaki sauce for variety.
Can I make it spicy?
Add red pepper flakes or sliced chili.
Conclusion
Chicken and Veggie Pasta with Rice is a flexible, family-friendly dish that combines comfort with nutrition. It’s a smart way to use pantry and fridge staples.
PrintChicken and Veggie Pasta with Rice
Chicken and Veggie Pasta with Rice is a hearty dish combining tender chicken, colorful vegetables, pasta, and rice in a light, flavorful sauce. This fusion meal is both filling and nourishing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sauté, Simmer
- Cuisine: Fusion
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- chicken breast or thighs
- mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
- pasta (penne or fusilli)
- cooked rice
- olive oil
- garlic
- onion
- chicken broth
- soy sauce
- parsley
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic and onion until fragrant.
- Add chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Stir in vegetables and cook until tender-crisp.
- Add chicken broth and soy sauce; bring to a simmer.
- Add cooked rice and pasta; stir until well combined and heated through.
- Sprinkle with parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different protein option.
- Add spinach or kale for extra greens and added nutrition.
- Quinoa or couscous can be substituted for rice if desired.
- This recipe is great for using up leftover rice.
- Quick-cooking vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or snap peas work well.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and tamari instead of soy sauce.
- If freezing, it can last for up to 2 months, but is best enjoyed fresh.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice or sprinkle with Parmesan for extra flavor.
- If using pre-cooked chicken, add it at the end just to heat through.
- For meal prep, this dish stores well and reheats easily.
- If omitting the rice, double the pasta or add another grain like quinoa or couscous.
- For different sauce options, try pesto, tomato sauce, or teriyaki sauce.
- For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or sliced chili to taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg