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Creamy Zucchini and Chicken Pasta Recipe

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4.7 from 93 reviews

This Creamy Zucchini and Chicken Pasta is a comforting and nutritious dish combining tender pasta, sautéed chicken, and a luscious creamy sauce made from fresh zucchini and cottage cheese. With a hint of garlic, onion, and herbs, this meal is both flavorful and easy to prepare, perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 250 g pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine)

Protein

  • 2 chicken breasts, diced (≈400 g / 14 oz)

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 2 medium zucchinis (courgettes), cubed (≈300 g / 10.5 oz)
  • 1 small onion, chopped (≈70 g / 2.5 oz)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

Dairy

  • 1 cup cottage cheese (240 g / 8 oz)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (50 g / 1.8 oz, optional)

Oils, Spices and Garnish

  • 2–3 tbsp olive oil or butter (30–45 ml / 1–1.5 oz)
  • ½ tsp dried thyme or sage
  • Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.
  2. Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent and soft, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Add the diced chicken breasts to the skillet. Season with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme or sage. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned, about 6-8 minutes.
  4. Prepare the Zucchini Sauce: Add the cubed zucchini to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes until slightly softened. Transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor. Add the cottage cheese, Parmesan (if using), and pinch of nutmeg. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Return the creamy zucchini and chicken sauce to the skillet over low heat. Add the cooked pasta and toss gently to coat evenly. Warm through, adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  6. Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • For a richer sauce, you can substitute some cottage cheese with cream or use full-fat cottage cheese.
  • If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit chicken and add mushrooms or other vegetables.
  • Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if it becomes too thick.
  • The Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a nice nutty flavor; omit for a lighter dish.
  • Fresh herbs like basil or parsley add freshness and a pop of color to the finished dish.

Find it online: https://amandafood.com/creamy-zucchini-and-chicken-pasta-recipe/