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Chicken Vegetable Skillet Pasta

Chicken Vegetable Skillet Pasta is a quick 30-minute dinner made with tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and penne pasta.
Finished with balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, and fresh parsley for a light, flavorful sauce.
Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, and family dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces uncooked penne pasta
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil divided
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1- to 2-inch strips
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 medium red bell pepper chopped
  • 1 medium yellow bell pepper chopped
  • 1 medium orange bell pepper chopped
  • 2 medium shallots diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh or dried parsley

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne according to the package directions.
  • Before draining, reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water. Drain the pasta and set aside.
  • Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the chicken strips and cook for 5–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked and no longer pink. Season with the salt and black pepper.
  • Stir in the chopped red, yellow, and orange bell peppers along with the diced shallots. Cook for 4–7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and lightly caramelize.
  • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  • Stir in the balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, remaining tablespoon of olive oil, reserved pasta water, and cooked penne. Toss everything together and cook for 3–4 minutes until the sauce lightly coats the pasta. This Chicken Vegetable Skillet Pasta comes together beautifully as the flavors blend.
  • Transfer to a serving platter and sprinkle with parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Fresh parsley adds the brightest flavor, but dried parsley works well too.
  • For extra protein, stir in white beans before serving.
  • Finish with freshly grated Parmesan or mozzarella for a richer meal.
  • Pair with garlic bread or a crisp green salad.