Garden Alfredo with Chicken

Tried a new recipe last week from my Cooking Light June 2013 magazine. It was so easy to make and surprisingly light. The kids enjoyed it for the most part; I generally separate everything on their plates, but this time I didn't. They ate the noodles and chicken and only tried one bite of the veggies. Next time I will place them on the side...presentation is everything with my two! I also like that you can keep the chicken out and you have meatless recipe that is nutritious and filling. Have fun with the veggies if these aren't your favorite. I did not change one thing about the recipe. Enjoy!

Ingredients:
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, pounded thin
salt and pepper to taste
cooking spray
6 oz uncooked pappardelle pasta
2 medium zucchini
2 medium yellow squash
2 tsp olive oil
5 oz thin asparagus spears
1 red bell pepper, cut into thin strips
6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
3/4 cup low-sodium broth
1/2 cup half-and-half
2 tsp flour
2 oz Parmesan cheese, grated

Directions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper. Coat pan with cooking spray. Add chicken; cook 4 minutes on each side or until done. Remove from pan and cover with aluminum foil. Will use pan with drippings in it!

2. While the chicken cooks, cook the pasta according to package. Drain and keep warm. I cooked the pasta once I stated the veggies and timing worked out perfect.

3. Cut each zucchini and squash in half crosswise. Cut 1/2 inch slices from the outer "walls" of the zucchini and squash; discard cores. Slice the pieces lengthwise into thin strips.

4. Heat oil in a non-stick skillet. Add all veggies and saute for 3 minutes. Season with salt and add garlic and saute an additional 2 minutes. Remove from pan.

5. Combine broth, half-and-half, and flour; stir with a whisk. Add broth mixture to pan with chicken drippings and bring to a boil. Use a wooden spoon to scrap up the brown bits. Cook about 2 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and add cheese. Stir until it melts. Add pasta, chicken and veggies and toss with sauce.