Looking for a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than this Creamy Zucchini and Chicken Pasta! With its rich flavors and easy preparation, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Great flavors: The combination of creamy zucchini sauce, tender chicken, and savory Parmesan cheese creates a mouthwatering dish.
Quick prep time: This recipe comes together in just under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.

Perfect for meal prep: This creamy pasta dish reheats beautifully, making it an ideal option for meal prepping lunches or dinners for the week.

Ingredient Notes:

Pasta: Choose your favorite type of pasta, such as penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine, as the base of the dish.
Zucchinis: Cubed zucchinis create a creamy sauce that’s both flavorful and nutritious.

Onion and garlic: These aromatics add sweetness and depth to the dish.
Chicken breasts: Diced chicken breasts serve as a lean protein source in this recipe.
Cottage cheese: Makes the sauce creamy and adds a protein boost.

Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan adds richness and nuttiness to the dish.
Olive oil or butter: Used as the cooking fat and for added flavor.
Herbs and seasonings: Dried thyme or sage, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper provide depth of flavor.

Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or basil make for a vibrant garnish.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water and drain the rest.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened.

Add the garlic and diced chicken breasts, cooking until the chicken is no longer pink.
Stir in the cubed zucchinis and cook until they start to soften.
Add the cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, dried herbs, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the sauce is creamy.

Toss in the cooked pasta, adding reserved pasta water as needed to thin out the sauce.
Serve the creamy zucchini and chicken pasta garnished with fresh parsley or basil.

Helpful Tips:

For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Use fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.

Don’t overcook the zucchinis to retain their texture.
Adjust the seasoning to your taste preference.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair this creamy pasta dish with a side salad and a glass of white wine for a complete meal. It also goes well with garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of water or broth to revive the creamy sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use frozen zucchinis instead of fresh? Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the dish.
Is there a substitute for cottage cheese? You can use Greek yogurt or cream cheese as a substitute.

Can I use a different type of protein? Yes, you can use shrimp, tofu, or even chickpeas as alternatives to chicken.

Conclusion:

Creamy Zucchini and Chicken Pasta is a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out! Enjoy!