Step 1: Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the pasta. Stir occasionally and cook until al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: While the pasta is cooking, prepare the chicken. Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and black pepper. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet.
Step 3: Sauté the chicken in the skillet for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Make sure to stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Step 4: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Next, add the mixed vegetables to the skillet. You can use any combination of vegetables according to your preference; bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots work wonderfully together. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-6 minutes until they are tender but still crisp.
Step 5: Once the vegetables are cooked, return the chicken to the skillet. Stir to combine the chicken and vegetables. If the mixture seems dry, add some of the reserved pasta water, a few tablespoons at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Now, add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together gently, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the chicken and vegetable mixture. If necessary, add more salt and black pepper to taste. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes over low heat, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 7: In a small dry skillet, lightly toast the seeds over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes, shaking the skillet frequently to prevent burning. This step enhances the flavor of the seeds and adds a delightful crunch to your dish.
Step 8: To serve, plate the pasta and vegetable mixture, then generously sprinkle the toasted seeds on top. For an extra touch of richness, add freshly grated parmesan cheese over the top. This adds a savory note that complements the dish beautifully.
Step 9: Enjoy your Chicken and Vegetable Pasta with Seed Topping while it’s hot. This meal not only satisfies your hunger but also provides an array of textures and flavors that will make your taste buds dance. It’s a perfect dinner option that’s easy to prepare, nutritious, and delicious!
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