Why make this recipe
This Quick and Easy Dinner is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something tasty but don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. With minimal ingredients and a simple process, you can whip up a satisfying meal in no time. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover vegetables or chicken you have on hand.
How to make Quick and Easy Dinner
Ingredients:
- Pre-cooked chicken
- Pasta
- Vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, broccoli)
- Olive oil
- Garlic
- Salt
- Pepper
- Parmesan cheese (optional)
Directions:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add pre-cooked chicken and vegetables, sautéing until heated through.
- Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package directions.
- Drain pasta and add it to the skillet, mixing everything together.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve with grated parmesan cheese if desired.
How to serve Quick and Easy Dinner
Serve this dish warm. You can plate it on individual dishes or keep it in the skillet for a family-style meal. Sprinkle some extra parmesan cheese and fresh herbs on top for added flavor.
How to store Quick and Easy Dinner
If you have leftovers, let the dish cool down and then store it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat or use the microwave.
Tips to make Quick and Easy Dinner
- Use different types of pasta, like penne or fusilli, to change up the texture.
- Feel free to mix in any vegetables you like, such as spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes.
- For added flavor, try adding some Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes.
Variation
You can make this dish vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding more vegetables, like mushrooms or chickpeas, for protein. Another option is to use shrimp or tofu as a protein source.
FAQs
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes! Frozen vegetables are a quick and easy substitute. Just add them to the skillet with the garlic and cook until heated through.
Do I need to use pre-cooked chicken?
While pre-cooked chicken saves time, you can cook raw chicken in the skillet first. Just ensure it’s fully cooked before adding the vegetables.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time and then combine them when you are ready to eat. Just keep them stored separately in the fridge until then.
