Description
This recipe combines tender, glazed teriyaki chicken with a vibrant medley of roasted vegetables and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a flavorful and balanced meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy. The sweetness of the teriyaki sauce complements the savory chicken and the slightly caramelized vegetables, creating a delicious harmony of flavors. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 large chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 10 oz (280 g) pasta (penne or spaghetti)
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1 small red onion, cut into wedges
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup low-sodium teriyaki sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion on a baking tray. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast for 20–25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
Step 2: While the vegetables are roasting, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and cook until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: In the same pan, sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), and sesame oil. Stir and simmer until the sauce slightly thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Add the cooked pasta, roasted vegetables, and cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to ensure everything is evenly coated with the teriyaki glaze.
Step 6: Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.
Why you’ll love this recipe:
- Flavorful and satisfying: The combination of teriyaki chicken, roasted vegetables, and pasta creates a delicious and balanced meal.
- Easy to make: The recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any complicated cooking techniques.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the vegetables and pasta to your liking.
- Healthy: This recipe incorporates lean protein, plenty of vegetables, and whole grains.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve immediately as a main course.
- Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Garnish with extra sesame seeds and green onions for added flavor and visual appeal.
Tips:
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the teriyaki sauce.
- To save time, you can use pre-cut vegetables.
- If you don’t have teriyaki sauce on hand, you can make your own by combining soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic.
- Make it vegetarian by swapping the chicken for tofu or tempeh.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition Information:
- Calories: 470 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Sodium: 600mg (Note: Sodium content can vary depending on the teriyaki sauce used. Opt for a low-sodium version to reduce the sodium levels)
Conclusion
This Teriyaki Chicken with Roasted Vegetable Pasta is a fantastic and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its balanced flavors and nutritional benefits, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers about this recipe:
- Can I use different vegetables?
- Yes, you can definitely substitute the vegetables with your favorites or whatever you have on hand. Broccoli, carrots, and mushrooms are great alternatives.
- Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
- Absolutely! Simply replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh. You may need to adjust the cooking time for the tofu or tempeh to ensure it’s cooked through.
- Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the roasted vegetables and the teriyaki sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, cook the pasta and chicken, and then combine everything together.
- What kind of pasta works best with this recipe?
- Penne or spaghetti are great choices, but you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Rotini or farfalle would also work well.
- How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free teriyaki sauce or tamari. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
