Preparing a hearty, flavorful, and nutritious lunch doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With this one-pan recipe, you can whip up a complete meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes. Packed with pasta, vegetables, and protein, this dish is perfect for a quick weekday meal or a lazy weekend lunch. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a delicious and satisfying meal with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups rotini pasta (or any short pasta of your choice)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup green olives, pitted and halved
- 1 cup cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preparing the Ingredients:
- Chop and Dice: Start by finely chopping the onion, mincing the garlic, and dicing the red bell pepper. Halve the green olives and shred the cooked chicken if not already done.
2. Cooking the Base:
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pan. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Bell Pepper and Corn: Stir in the diced red bell pepper and corn kernels. Cook for another 3 minutes until the bell pepper starts to soften.
3. Combining Ingredients:
- Add Chicken and Olives: Add the shredded chicken and halved olives to the pan. Mix well to combine with the vegetables.
- Season: Sprinkle the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Stir to evenly distribute the seasonings.
4. Cooking the Pasta:
- Add Pasta and Liquids: Pour in the rotini pasta, chicken broth, and tomato sauce. Stir everything together to ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pan and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and the liquid has reduced to create a sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Adding the Final Touches:
- Cheese (Optional): If you like, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese over the top of the dish. Cover the pan again and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese has melted.
- Garnish: Once done, remove the pan from the heat. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a burst of color and freshness.
6. Serving:
- Serve Hot: Serve the one-pan meal hot, straight from the pan. It’s perfect as is, but you can also pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a more substantial meal.
Tips for the Best One-Pan Meal:
- Use Quality Broth: The flavor of your broth will greatly impact the overall taste of the dish. Use a good quality chicken broth or make your own if possible.
- Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the meal.
- Stirring: Stir the pasta occasionally while it’s cooking to ensure even cooking and to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Parmesan, gouda, or a blend of cheeses can add a different flavor profile to the dish.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach. You can also add beans or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeno for some heat.
- Seafood Twist: Replace the chicken with shrimp or diced fish for a seafood variation.
This one-pan complete lunch is a quick, easy, and delicious solution for a busy day. The combination of pasta, vegetables, and protein ensures a balanced meal that can be prepared in just 30 minutes. With minimal cleanup required, it’s a great option for any home cook. Enjoy this versatile and satisfying dish, and don’t be afraid to tweak it to suit your taste preferences!
