Description
This Lemon Chicken Pasta Primavera with Balsamic Onions & Cream Sauce is a weeknight dinner dream come true. Imagine tender chicken and vibrant spring vegetables, all tossed in a rich, velvety cream sauce. But what truly sets this dish apart are the sweet, caramelized balsamic onions, adding a layer of sophisticated flavor that elevates every bite. This recipe delivers on both comfort and freshness, making it a perfect choice for a family meal or when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a complete skillet meal that comes together quickly, promising a delicious and satisfying experience.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. 1. Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. 2. Cook the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. 3. Caramelize the Onions: In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced onion. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until softened and lightly golden, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the balsamic vinegar and granulated sugar. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring, until the onions are beautifully caramelized and sticky. Remove the onions from the skillet and set aside with the chicken.
4. 4. Saute the Vegetables and Garlic: Add the mixed fresh vegetables to the skillet. Saute for 3-5 minutes until they are crisp-tender. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. 5. Build the Cream Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce begins to thicken slightly.
6. 6. Combine and Finish: Return the cooked chicken and caramelized balsamic onions to the skillet with the sauce and vegetables. Add the cooked and drained pasta, along with the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley. Toss everything together gently to coat the pasta and ingredients evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: main dish
- Method: skillet
- Cuisine: italian-american
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
Keywords: chicken, pasta, primavera, lemon, cream sauce, balsamic, onions, weeknight, skillet, easy
