Description
A creamy, dreamy Vodka Pasta with Chicken and Veggie Delights — a perfect balance of rich tomato sauce, tender chicken, and colorful vegetables. This Italian-inspired comfort dish is easy, flavorful, and weeknight-friendly with a luxurious restaurant-style finish.
Ingredients
12 oz penne pasta
1 tbsp olive oil
1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
1 small onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup bell peppers, sliced (red, yellow, or green)
1/2 cup zucchini, sliced
1/2 cup vodka
1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
1. Cook pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
3. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until lightly browned and cooked through.
4. Stir in bell peppers and zucchini; cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender.
5. Pour in vodka and simmer for 2–3 minutes to let the alcohol cook off.
6. Add crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning; simmer for 8–10 minutes.
7. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until sauce is smooth and creamy.
8. Add cooked pasta and toss until evenly coated.
9. Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.
Notes
For extra flavor, use grilled chicken or add mushrooms.
Swap heavy cream for coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Pairs beautifully with garlic bread and a crisp salad for a full meal.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 760mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: vodka pasta with chicken, creamy tomato pasta, penne alla vodka, weeknight dinner, pasta with vegetables