If you’re looking for a comforting yet elegant meal, chicken pasta is the way to go. This dish combines juicy chicken with perfectly cooked pasta, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that promises to satisfy your taste buds and impress your family or guests.
Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 200g pasta (fusilli or penne)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup spinach
– Olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, while cooking time is approximately 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 500 calories, 25g of protein, 40g of carbohydrates, and 30g of fat. This is based on standard ingredients and may vary.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Start by boiling a large pot of salted water for the pasta.
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet.
5. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove the chicken and let it rest before slicing it into strips.
7. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until translucent.
8. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine.
9. Add the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, and spinach to the skillet, mixing everything together.
10. Return the sliced chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce, and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option like half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative such as coconut milk. Additionally, any pasta shape can be used, and you can include vegetables like bell peppers for extra flavor.
Serving and Pairings
Chicken pasta pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread. For a refreshing touch, consider serving it with a glass of white wine or a light sparkling water.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover chicken pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. This dish can be frozen, but the cream sauce may change texture upon thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente.
– Avoid crowding the skillet when cooking chicken for even browning.
– Use low heat when adding cream to prevent curdling.
– Don’t skip seasoning; it enhances the overall flavor.
– Let chicken rest before slicing to retain juices.
Helpful Tips
– Marinate the chicken for extra flavor.
– Add cheese to the sauce for a richer taste.
– Use fresh herbs for a burst of freshness.
– Adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more broth or cream.
– Experiment with different vegetables based on seasonality.
FAQs
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover chicken works great. Just add it to the sauce towards the end to heat through.
What type of pasta is best for chicken pasta?
Fusilli and penne are excellent choices as they hold the sauce well, but feel free to use your favorite type.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead and combine them just before serving to maintain the best texture.
Is chicken pasta healthy?
While it can be higher in calories, you can make it healthier by using whole-grain pasta and reducing the cream.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers can enhance the dish while adding nutrition.
Conclusion
Chicken pasta is a versatile, satisfying dish that can be customized to your taste. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this delightful meal any night of the week!
Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
- 200 g pasta fusilli or penne
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 small onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup spinach
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of salted water for the pasta.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken and let it rest before slicing.
- In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until translucent.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stir well.
- Add the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, and spinach, mixing everything together.
- Return the sliced chicken to the skillet, toss to coat, and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
