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Chicken Minestrone Pasta Skillet

Chicken Minestrone Pasta Skillet


  • Author: OliviaBennett

Description

A cozy, one-skillet meal packed with chicken, veggies, beans, and pasta simmered in a flavorful tomato broth. Perfect for weeknight dinners with minimal cleanup.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Skillet:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)

  • 1 small onion, chopped

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 2 carrots, diced

  • 2 celery stalks, diced

  • 1 zucchini, chopped

  • 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or cubed

  • 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed

  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (juice included)

  • 4 cups chicken broth

  • 3/4 cup ditalini pasta (or small pasta of choice)

  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano

  • 1/2 tsp dried basil

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 12 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional)

  • Grated Parmesan and fresh parsley, for serving


Instructions

  • Sauté Aromatics:

    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.

    • Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté 5–7 minutes until onions are translucent and carrots begin to soften.

  • Build the Broth:

    • Stir in zucchini, chicken, white beans, and diced tomatoes.

    • Pour in chicken broth, add oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir and bring to a boil.

  • Cook the Pasta:

    • Add ditalini pasta directly to the skillet.

    • Reduce heat to a gentle simmer and cook 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and liquid thickens slightly.

  • Wilt the Greens:

    • Turn off heat and stir in spinach or kale, if using. Let wilt from residual heat.

  • Adjust Seasoning:

    • Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

  • Serve:

    • Spoon into bowls and top with grated Parmesan and parsley. Serve with crusty bread if desired.

Notes

  • Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or Italian sausage instead of chicken.

  • Vegetarian: Omit chicken and use vegetable broth; add extra beans or chickpeas.

  • Pasta Options: Small shells, orzo, or broken spaghetti work well.

  • Add Heat: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes with the herbs.

  • Seasonal Veggies: Swap carrots and zucchini for yellow squash or green beans in summer.