Are you craving a warm, hearty meal that’s both delicious and easy to prepare? Look no further than this recipe for pasta fazool made with chicken. This comforting Italian dish, also known as pasta e fagioli, has been a family favorite for generations. Traditionally made with beans, pasta, and a savory broth, we’ve given it a healthy upgrade by swapping out the usual pork or beef for lean, protein-packed chicken. The result? A lighter, nutritious version that still delivers the rich, satisfying flavors you love. Whether you’re a busy home cook looking for a quick weeknight dinner or someone eager to try a wholesome twist on a classic, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s get cooking!
Table of contents
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Pasta Fazool Recipe
Quick and Easy Pasta Fazool Made with Chicken: Ready in Just 30 Minutes
This recipe for pasta fazool made with chicken is the perfect solution for busy nights. It comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a quick and easy dinner option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Whether you’re short on time or craving a comforting meal, this dish is a go-to favorite.
Healthy Chicken Pasta Fazool: Packed with Protein and Nutritious Ingredients
Incorporating lean chicken into this classic pasta fazool recipe provides a boost of protein while still keeping it light and healthy. The addition of vegetables and beans adds fiber, making it a wholesome meal that supports your health while being delicious and filling.
Family-Friendly Chicken Pasta Fazool: A Dish for Everyone
This pasta fazool recipe made with chicken is a hit with kids and adults alike. Its savory, mild flavors appeal to picky eaters, while still offering a hearty, satisfying meal. It’s also easy to customize, so you can adjust the ingredients to cater to your family’s preferences.
One-Pot Pasta Fazool: Minimal Cleanup, Maximum Flavor
One of the best things about this chicken pasta fazool recipe is that it’s a one-pot wonder. Everything cooks together in one pot, creating a rich, flavorful dish with minimal mess. Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal, making it a practical and tasty choice for any weeknight dinner.
Ingredients for Pasta Fazool Made with Chicken
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | For sautéing |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium | Adds sweetness to the base |
| Garlic (minced) | 4 cloves | Enhances the flavor |
| Chicken breast | 1 lb | Cut into bite-sized pieces |
| Cannellini beans | 1 can (15 oz) | Drained and rinsed |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 can (14 oz) | Adds richness to the broth |
| Chicken broth | 4 cups | Low-sodium preferred |
| Dried pasta | 1 cup | Small shapes like ditalini work best |
| Fresh spinach | 2 cups | Optional, for added nutrients |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp | For authentic flavor |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Adjust as needed |
| Parmesan cheese | For garnish | Optional but recommended |
Preparing the Ingredients for Pasta Fazool Made with Chicken
Chop, Dice, and Prepare: Get Your Onion, Garlic, and Chicken Ready
Start by dicing the onion, chopping the garlic, and cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Make sure everything is chopped evenly to ensure consistent cooking throughout the pasta fazool made with chicken. Proper preparation helps the ingredients cook evenly and enhances the flavor.
Drain, Rinse, and Prepare: Wash Cannellini Beans to Reduce Sodium
Before adding the cannellini beans to your pasta fazool, drain and rinse them thoroughly. This step helps remove excess sodium and ensures your dish stays healthy and balanced, keeping the focus on wholesome ingredients like beans and chicken.
Measure and Organize: Gather All Spices and Liquids for Easy Access
Next, measure out all the spices and liquids you’ll need for the recipe. Having everything ready and within reach makes the cooking process smoother and quicker. This ensures you can add the ingredients in the right order without interruptions, allowing your pasta fazool made with chicken to come together seamlessly.
Cooking Your Pasta Fazool Made with Chicken
1 – Sauté the Flavor Base for Pasta Fazool:
Start by warming olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until fragrant and translucent (about 3 minutes). This step creates a flavorful base for your pasta fazool made with chicken.
2 – Cook the Chicken for Pasta Fazool:
Next, add the chicken pieces to the pot. Cook until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides, and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. The chicken adds protein to the dish while absorbing the wonderful flavors of the seasonings.
3 – Build the Savory Broth for Chicken Pasta Fazool:
Stir in the cannellini beans and diced tomatoes, creating a rich and hearty base. Then, pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This broth infuses all the ingredients with a savory, comforting flavor that makes this pasta fazool recipe shine.
4 – Add the Pasta and Simmer to Perfection:
Stir in the dried pasta and reduce the heat to low. Let the mixture simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. The pasta absorbs the flavorful broth, making each bite comforting and delicious in your pasta fazool made with chicken.
5 – Add Spinach and Final Touches for Pasta Fazool:
Toss in the fresh spinach and stir until wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. This final step adds a burst of freshness and color to your pasta fazool, completing the dish with vibrant flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Your Pasta Fazool Made with Chicken
Top with Parmesan: Ladle the Chicken Pasta Fazool into Bowls and Garnish:
Once your pasta fazool made with chicken is ready, ladle it into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese adds a rich, savory finishing touch that enhances the flavors of the dish.
Complete the Meal: Serve with Crusty Bread or a Fresh Side Salad:
For a well-rounded meal, serve your pasta fazool with hearty crusty whole-grain bread or a light side salad. These sides balance the flavors of the dish and offer a satisfying, nutritious complement.
Pair with a Refreshing Beverage: Try White Wine or Sparkling Water with Lemon:
To elevate your meal, pair the pasta fazool with a light white wine or sparkling water with a slice of lemon. These drinks are refreshing and perfectly complement the savory, comforting flavors of your chicken pasta fazool.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken Pasta Fazool
Use Fresh Ingredients for the Best Chicken Pasta Fazool:
Using fresh garlic, spinach, and high-quality chicken can significantly elevate the flavor of your pasta fazool made with chicken. Fresh ingredients make a noticeable difference, giving the dish a vibrant, authentic taste.
Make Your Pasta Fazool Gluten-Free:
For a gluten-free option, simply substitute the regular pasta with gluten-free varieties. This makes your chicken pasta fazool suitable for those with dietary restrictions, while still maintaining the delicious flavors and textures of the original recipe.
Double the Chicken Pasta Fazool Recipe for Easy Meal Prep:
This recipe for pasta fazool made with chicken is perfect for meal prep. It freezes well, so you can double the recipe and store extra portions for later. Whether for lunch or dinner, having a pre-made meal on hand makes busy days much easier.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 7g |
Conclusion:
This quick and healthy recipe for pasta fazool made with chicken is the perfect blend of tradition and innovation. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and nourishing, making it ideal for any day of the week. Whether you’re serving it to your family or enjoying a bowl solo, this recipe is bound to become a favorite. Try it tonight and taste the magic!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use canned chicken instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned chicken for convenience. However, fresh chicken will provide better flavor and texture.
What other beans can I use?
You can substitute cannellini beans with great northern beans or chickpeas if desired.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth for a hearty vegetarian option.
How long does this dish keep?
Stored in an airtight container, pasta fazool with chicken can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator or 3 months in the freezer.
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Chicken Pasta Fazool
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 lb chicken breast diced
- 1 can 15 oz cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups dried pasta small shells or elbow pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
Sauté the Base:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3 minutes.
Cook the Chicken:
- Add the diced chicken to the pot, cooking until lightly browned on all sides. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Build the Broth:
- Stir in the cannellini beans and diced tomatoes. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
Add Pasta and Simmer:
- Stir in the dried pasta and reduce heat to low. Let the mixture simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
Add Spinach and Finish:
- Toss in the fresh spinach and stir until wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle the pasta fazool into bowls, topping with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve with crusty whole-grain bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 28g
- Vitamin A: 25% of the Daily Value
- Vitamin C: 15% of the Daily Value
- Calcium: 10% of the Daily Value
- Iron: 15% of the Daily Value