Recipe For Pasta Fazool Made With Chicken: Simple & Satisfying

Craving a comforting and hearty dish? This recipe for pasta fazool made with chicken is a flavorful twist on the classic “pasta e fagioli.” The dish combines tender chicken, beans, and pasta for a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to make.

Pasta fazool is rich, wholesome, and perfect for cozy dinners. It’s simple to prepare and uses fresh, nutritious ingredients. This version adds chicken for extra protein, making it a family-friendly favorite.

Whether you’re new to Italian cooking or want to upgrade a classic recipe, this dish is perfect. Let’s dive into this simple and satisfying pasta fazool with chicken!

What Is Pasta Fazool Made with Chicken?

Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli)

Pasta Fazool, also known as Pasta e Fagioli, is a beloved Italian dish made with pasta and beans. The name “Pasta Fazool” comes from the Neapolitan dialect, where “fazool” is a playful version of fagioli, meaning beans in Italian. This dish has simple ingredients but delivers rich, comforting flavors. Traditionally, it features white beans like cannellini, combined with small pasta, garlic, onions, and tomatoes. The broth absorbs all these ingredients’ flavors, creating a hearty, satisfying meal.

In this version, chicken adds both flavor and protein. The tender chicken blends perfectly with the beans and pasta, making the dish even more filling. Whether you’re looking for a classic comfort food or a more filling meal, Pasta Fazool made with chicken hits the mark.

Difference Between Traditional and Chicken Pasta Fazool

Traditional Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli) highlights pasta and beans as the star ingredients. It usually combines white beans, like cannellini, with small pasta shapes such as ditalini or elbow macaroni. The savory broth comes from garlic, onions, tomatoes, and herbs like rosemary and bay leaves. Some recipes include pancetta or bacon for extra flavor.

Chicken Pasta Fazool adds a hearty protein twist to this classic dish. By incorporating chicken, the dish becomes more filling and substantial. The chicken’s tender meat pairs well with the beans and pasta, boosting the overall flavor. You can add the chicken in different forms, such as shredded or in chunks, to suit your preference. This version maintains the comforting feel of the original while offering a more complete meal with both pasta and protein.

How Chicken Adds a Unique Twist to This Italian Classic

Adding chicken to Pasta Fazool elevates this Italian classic into a hearty, protein-packed dish. Traditionally made with just beans and pasta, the original recipe offers comfort but lacks a rich, filling protein. Chicken, whether shredded or in chunks, complements the mild flavors of the beans and the savory broth, enhancing the dish’s overall depth.

The tender chicken absorbs the aromatic flavors of garlic, onions, and herbs, while adding its own juicy richness to the mix. Unlike other meats, chicken doesn’t overpower the delicate flavors of the pasta and beans, but instead blends seamlessly into the dish. This makes the dish more satisfying without taking away from its original comforting feel.

This twist makes Chicken Pasta Fazool a complete meal, offering the perfect balance of carbs, protein, and veggies, making it even more versatile for a hearty family dinner.

To complement your Chicken Pasta Fazool, check out this Italian Pasta E Fagioli recipe on AllRecipes, which offers additional tips and variations on this classic dish.

Key Ingredients for Pasta Fazool with Chicken

Essential Ingredients: Chicken, Beans, Pasta

The key ingredients in Chicken Pasta Fazool bring together both classic comfort and hearty nutrition. Each element plays an important role in creating a balanced, flavorful dish.

1. Chicken: Adding protein, chicken transforms the dish from a simple soup into a filling, complete meal. The chicken can be shredded or diced, allowing it to absorb the flavors of the broth while remaining tender and juicy.
2. Beans: Traditionally, cannellini beans or navy beans provide a creamy texture that balances the other ingredients. They offer a subtle earthiness and are rich in fiber and nutrients, making them the dish’s nutritious base.
3. Pasta: The small, hearty pasta such as ditalini or elbow macaroni soaks up the flavors of the broth, creating a satisfying bite with every spoonful. The pasta complements the beans and chicken perfectly, helping to fill you up and tie all the flavors together.

Together, these three ingredients make the dish comforting, filling, and satisfying the ideal foundation for this hearty twist on an Italian classic.

Flavor Boosters: Garlic, Onions, Tomatoes, and Herbs

Garlic, onions, tomatoes, and herbs are the secret behind the rich, savory flavor of Chicken Pasta Fazool. These ingredients enhance the dish and create depth, making it more satisfying and aromatic.

1. Garlic: Garlic brings a warm, aromatic foundation to the broth. Its subtle sweetness pairs perfectly with the beans and chicken, infusing the dish with flavor without overpowering it.
2. Onions: Onions add a mild, savory sweetness that intensifies as they cook. They help balance the richness of the chicken and beans, giving the broth a natural depth.
3. Tomatoes: Fresh or canned tomatoes add brightness and a hint of acidity to the dish. Their tangy sweetness cuts through the richness, balancing the creamy beans and tender chicken.
4. Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs, such as rosemary, bay leaves, and thyme, enhance the overall aroma and flavor profile. These earthy, fragrant herbs create a warm, comforting experience that ties all the ingredients together.

Together, these flavor boosters turn a simple dish into a savory, well-rounded meal. Each ingredient enhances the next, building a satisfying and delicious final result.

Optional Add-Ins: Parmesan Cheese, Olive Oil, and Seasoning

To elevate Chicken Pasta Fazool even further, consider adding a few optional ingredients that provide richness, flavor, and extra depth.

1. Parmesan Cheese: A generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a savory, salty finish. It melts into the dish, enriching the broth and complementing the chicken, beans, and pasta with a delightful creaminess.
2. Olive Oil: Drizzling a bit of high-quality olive oil over the finished dish enhances its flavor and adds a silky texture. Olive oil also ties the flavors together, balancing the earthiness of the beans and the richness of the chicken.
3. Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with your preferred seasoning combinations. A dash of red pepper flakes adds heat, while freshly ground black pepper enhances the savory flavors. Additionally, a sprinkle of dried oregano or basil can deepen the herbaceous notes in the dish.

These optional add-ins offer versatility, allowing you to personalize the dish and make it even more satisfying. A few extra touches transform an already comforting meal into something truly special.

For a deeper dive into cooking techniques, check out our guide on how to make perfect diced chicken every time a great way to ensure your chicken is tender and flavorful for your Chicken Pasta Fazool.

How to Cook the Perfect Pasta Fazool with Chicken

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking the Chicken

Cooking the chicken properly ensures it enhances the dish without overpowering the flavors. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to get it just right:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Start by cutting the chicken into chunks or shredding it, depending on your preference. Using boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs ensures tenderness and quick cooking.
2. Season the Chicken: Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs (rosemary or thyme works great). You can also add a little garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor.
3. Sear the Chicken: Heat a bit of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sear them on all sides until they turn golden brown. This locks in the juices and gives the chicken a flavorful crust. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage just get a good sear.
4. Simmer the Chicken in Broth: Once the chicken is browned, pour in your broth (chicken or vegetable) and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 10–15 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and absorb the flavors from the broth.
5. Shred or Chunk the Chicken: After the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and shred it with two forks or cut it into bite-sized pieces. Return it to the pot to reabsorb all the delicious flavors.

Following these steps ensures perfectly cooked chicken that blends seamlessly into your Pasta Fazool, enhancing the dish with tender, juicy pieces in every bite.

Preparing the Beans and Pasta Together

Combining beans and pasta perfectly helps create a harmonious, well-balanced dish. Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing these ingredients:

1. Prepare the Beans: If you’re using canned beans, drain and rinse them to remove excess salt or preservatives. If you’re using dried beans, soak them overnight, then cook them until tender. Cannellini or navy beans are great choices due to their creamy texture.
2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta (small shapes like ditalini work well) and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Avoid overcooking the pasta, as it will continue cooking when added to the broth.
3. Combine Beans and Pasta: Once the pasta is ready, drain it and set it aside. In a large soup pot, gently warm your broth (chicken or vegetable). Add the beans to the pot, and let them simmer for a few minutes so they absorb the broth’s flavors.
4. Add the Pasta to the Soup: After the beans have simmered and softened, add the cooked pasta to the broth. Stir gently and let everything simmer together for about 5–7 minutes. This allows the pasta to soak up the savory broth, becoming flavorful and tender without losing its shape.

By preparing the beans and pasta together, you create a satisfying, cohesive texture that melds beautifully with the chicken and broth. This simple yet crucial step brings out the best in each ingredient, ensuring every bite is full of rich, savory flavors.

Simmering the Dish for Optimal Flavor

Simmering is the key step that allows all the ingredients to come together and develop a rich, unified flavor. Follow these steps to ensure your dish reaches its full potential:

1. Combine Ingredients: After adding the chicken, beans, and pasta to the pot, give everything a gentle stir. Make sure the ingredients are well-mixed and immersed in the broth.
2. Bring to a Simmer: Set the pot over medium heat and allow the dish to come to a simmer. Reduce the heat slightly to maintain a low simmer—not a rolling boil—to preserve the tender texture of the beans and chicken.
3. Let It Cook Slowly: Simmer the dish for 20–30 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together. During this time, the beans will absorb the savory broth, while the pasta soaks up the flavors. The chicken will also continue to cook and infuse the broth with richness.
4. Check the Seasoning: As the dish simmers, taste it and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or herbs to enhance the flavors. A splash of olive oil at this point can further round out the richness.

By simmering slowly, you allow the beans, pasta, and chicken to meld together, creating a comforting, flavorful dish with depth and complexity. The longer you simmer, the more the ingredients will absorb the delicious broth, resulting in a perfectly balanced meal.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Broth Consistency

Achieving the right broth consistency is crucial for a satisfying Chicken Pasta Fazool. You want a broth that’s flavorful, slightly thickened, and comforting. Follow these tips for a perfectly balanced consistency:

1. Use Enough Broth: Start by adding enough broth to cover all your ingredients chicken, beans, and pasta. You want the liquid to help the flavors meld together, so don’t skimp on the amount.
2. Simmer, Don’t Boil: While the dish simmers, avoid boiling it vigorously. A gentle simmer allows the liquid to reduce slowly, thickening the broth without losing too much water. This creates a rich, savory base for your dish.
3. Stir Occasionally: Stir the dish occasionally as it simmers. This prevents the pasta from sticking to the bottom and helps distribute the liquid evenly. If the broth seems too thick, you can add a bit more water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
4. Thicken if Needed: If you prefer a thicker broth, there are simple ways to achieve that. For a heartier texture, mash a small portion of the beans in the pot to release their starch. Alternatively, a quick slurry made from cornstarch and cold water can be stirred into the broth.
5. Check Towards the End: Towards the end of the simmering process, taste the broth again. If it has reduced too much, you can add more liquid to loosen it up. The ideal consistency should be slightly thickened but still soupy enough to pour.

By following these tips, you’ll create a broth that complements the pasta, beans, and chicken, providing the perfect balance of texture and flavor. A carefully simmered broth elevates the entire dish, making each spoonful irresistible.

Variations of Chicken Pasta Fazool

Using Different Pasta Types (e.g., Ditalini, Rotini)

Choosing the right pasta can transform your Chicken Pasta Fazool, adding variety in texture and flavor. Here’s how different pasta shapes enhance the dish:

1. Ditalini: Traditionally used in Pasta Fazool, ditalini is small, tube-shaped pasta that perfectly holds onto the broth. Its shape helps capture the savory flavors, making each bite satisfying. It’s ideal for soaking up the broth without losing its firmness.
2. Rotini: Rotini’s spiral shape works wonderfully for a heartier dish. The twists trap more broth, allowing for a burst of flavor with each forkful. This pasta provides a slightly firmer texture, which some people prefer, especially for a more substantial meal.
3. Penne: Penne offers a larger, ridged option that grips onto both the broth and beans, giving each bite a more substantial feel. It works well if you prefer a chunkier texture to your dish.
4. Shells: Small or medium-sized shells create delightful pockets that capture broth, beans, and meat. This type of pasta can create a more indulgent, hearty texture as they catch more liquid in the folds.
5. Fusilli or Rotelle: If you’re looking for something fun and a little different, spiral-shaped fusilli or rotelle provide both visual interest and texture. The twists allow the broth to cling in more intricate ways, giving every spoonful a satisfying bite.

When selecting pasta, choose one that complements your personal texture preference. While ditalini is classic, feel free to experiment with these alternatives to change up the experience. Pasta is key to balancing the overall dish, giving each mouthful the right combination of flavors and texture.

Vegetarian Versions of Pasta Fazool

For a lighter, vegetarian take on Chicken Pasta Fazool, you can swap the meat with hearty plant-based ingredients while still maintaining the rich, comforting flavors. Here’s how to make a satisfying vegetarian version:

1. Skip the Chicken: Replace the chicken with additional beans to keep the dish hearty. You can use extra cannellini, chickpeas, or even kidney beans for a protein boost. These beans will absorb the flavors of the broth, providing a creamy texture.
2. Use Vegetable Broth: Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a completely vegetarian dish. Opt for a high-quality vegetable broth with a rich, savory base to mimic the depth that chicken broth typically offers.
3. Enhance with Tofu or Tempeh: If you miss the texture of meat, tofu or tempeh can be a great substitute. Both ingredients soak up flavors well. Cube and sauté tofu, or crumble tempeh for a more “meaty” texture that pairs nicely with beans and pasta.
4. Add Extra Vegetables: Bulk up the dish with more vegetables, such as spinach, zucchini, or carrots. Sauté or add them directly into the simmering broth to add both flavor and nutrition.
5. Top with Parmesan or Vegan Cheese: For a cheesy finish, sprinkle traditional Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative to keep the dish vegetarian or vegan-friendly.

With these simple swaps, you can enjoy all the flavors of Pasta Fazool while keeping it completely plant-based. The key is balancing the vegetables and beans to ensure the dish remains as rich, satisfying, and comforting as the original.

Adjusting Seasoning to Suit Your Taste

The seasoning is what brings out the full flavor of your Chicken Pasta Fazool, and adjusting it to your personal preference can make all the difference. Follow these tips for customizing the seasoning:

1. Start Simple: Begin with basic seasonings like salt, pepper, and garlic powder. These create a savory foundation. Always taste as you go to ensure the flavors are balanced before adding more.
2. Boost with Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, rosemary, or thyme add layers of flavor. Add them during the simmering process, or garnish the dish just before serving for a burst of brightness.
3. Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes, chili powder, or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Start with a small amount and adjust, since it’s easier to add more heat than to reduce it once added.
4. Acid Balance: To balance the richness of the beans and broth, consider adding a splash of acid. A squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of balsamic vinegar just before serving brightens up the dish and enhances the flavor complexity.
5. Umami Depth: For an added depth of flavor, try a splash of soy sauce or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast. These provide a savory umami boost without altering the overall dish significantly.
6. Taste and Fine-Tune: Throughout the cooking process, taste and adjust seasoning in layers. Adding spices gradually will help create a more balanced and harmonious flavor profile.

By adjusting the seasonings to your liking, you’ll elevate your Chicken Pasta Fazool to suit your taste perfectly. The key is to build up the flavors step by step and always taste as you go.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple and Quick Chicken Pasta Fazool Recipe for Busy Weeknights

If you’re short on time but want to enjoy a comforting bowl of Chicken Pasta Fazool, this quick and easy recipe delivers all the flavors in less than an hour. Follow these simple steps:

1. Prepare Ingredients: Cut chicken into small pieces, rinse and drain your canned beans (like cannellini or kidney beans), and set aside your pasta (ditalini or rotini works great).
2. Sauté Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and herbs, and sauté until golden brown. This step takes about 5–7 minutes.
3. Add Aromatics: Stir in minced garlic, chopped onions, and a can of diced tomatoes. Let them cook for 2–3 minutes until the onions soften and the garlic becomes fragrant.
4. Add Broth & Simmer: Pour in your chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Add the drained beans. Let the broth simmer for 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
5. Cook the Pasta: While the soup simmers, cook your pasta in a separate pot according to package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta and set aside.
6. Combine & Simmer Together: Add the cooked pasta to the soup and simmer together for 5 more minutes to allow everything to marry. Adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve & Enjoy: Once everything is well-combined and heated through, ladle the Chicken Pasta Fazool into bowls. Top with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.

This recipe lets you create a rich and satisfying dish in a short amount of time without compromising on flavor. By preparing the chicken, beans, and pasta in a simple, step-by-step process, you’ll enjoy a hearty meal that feels like it took much longer to prepare!

The Comforting and Hearty Nature of the Dish

The recipe for pasta fazool made with chicken stands out as a go-to comfort food, offering a filling and satisfying meal that warms the body and soul. Here’s why it’s so comforting and hearty:

1. Rich and Flavorful Broth: The broth is the foundation of this recipe for pasta fazool made with chicken, combining garlic, onions, and herbs for a fragrant and savory base. Slow-simmered with the beans and chicken, it becomes rich and soothing, providing the warmth you crave in a hearty dish.
2. Perfectly Cooked Ingredients: With each bite of chicken, tender beans, and pasta, you experience a balanced texture that complements the comforting broth. This recipe for pasta fazool made with chicken allows the ingredients to meld together, creating an unforgettable, hearty taste.
3. Filling and Nutritious: This dish combines protein-rich chicken and fiber-filled beans with pasta to give you a well-rounded, hearty meal. Whether you’re serving it on a cold evening or after a long day, it will leave you feeling satisfied without being too heavy.
4. A Meal That Warms You Up: When you need something to lift your spirits or soothe a hungry stomach, this recipe for pasta fazool made with chicken is the perfect choice. It’s a soul-satisfying meal that can be shared with family or enjoyed on your own for some quiet comfort.

A Filling, Family-Friendly Recipe for Pasta Fazool Made with Chicken

This recipe for pasta fazool made with chicken is a crowd-pleaser, ideal for feeding a family and providing comfort all in one bowl. The dish is packed with wholesome ingredients that make it both filling and satisfying. Here’s why this meal is perfect for family dinners:

1. Hearty and Balanced: This recipe for pasta fazool made with chicken combines protein-rich chicken with fiber-packed beans and pasta. It creates a well-balanced dish that leaves everyone feeling full and content after just one serving.
2. Easy to Make: Despite its filling nature, this recipe is simple to prepare. From chopping the chicken to simmering the broth, the steps are straightforward, making it an ideal weeknight meal. Plus, it requires minimal cleanup since it’s usually made in one pot.
3. Customizable: Family members can have their way with this meal. Whether someone loves extra beans, another prefers more pasta, or you’d like to adjust the seasoning, this recipe for pasta fazool made with chicken is easily adaptable to suit different preferences.
4. Perfect for Leftovers: The leftovers are just as good, if not better! The flavors continue to meld together overnight, giving you a delicious meal for the next day. It’s a great choice for busy days when you don’t want to cook again.
5. Ideal for Every Member of the Family: This dish is perfect for everyone—from young children to adults making it a go-to for family dinners. You can easily adjust the heat level by omitting spicy ingredients for younger ones, or add extra herbs and seasoning for the adults.

Conclusion

Chicken Pasta Fazool is a truly versatile and comforting dish that effortlessly combines rich flavors with filling ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a hearty family dinner, a quick weeknight meal, or a way to enjoy an Italian classic with a twist, this recipe is sure to satisfy. From the creamy beans and tender chicken to the flavorful broth and pasta, each bite is a warm, nourishing experience. By adjusting seasonings and choosing your favorite pasta, you can easily make this dish your own. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a comforting bowl of Chicken Pasta Fazool with your loved ones today!