Chicken Pasta
If you’re looking for a comforting and satisfying meal, chicken pasta is the answer. This dish combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich sauce, making it a favorite for family dinners and gatherings. With its delightful flavors and easy preparation, chicken pasta is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that promises to impress!
Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 200g pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving contains approximately 450 calories, 25g of protein, 35g of carbohydrates, and 20g of fat. This nutritional value is based on a single serving size of 1 cup of chicken pasta.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
6. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
7. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
8. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook until they soften.
9. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for a few minutes.
10. Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet, mixing everything well.
11. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top and stir until melted.
12. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option. Also, try using whole wheat pasta for a healthier choice or replace heavy cream with a plant-based alternative for a lighter dish.
Serving and Pairings
Chicken pasta pairs beautifully with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. For a complete meal, serve with a glass of white wine or sparkling water.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over low heat until heated through. This dish can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze the pasta and sauce separately.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta will make it mushy; always follow package instructions.
- Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors.
- Using too much cream may overpower the dish; balance is key.
- Forgetting to let the chicken rest can result in dry meat.
- Skipping the garnishing step can make the dish less appealing.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Experiment with herbs like oregano or thyme for added depth.
- Cook the chicken in batches if your skillet is small to avoid steaming.
- Adjust the cream quantity based on your desired richness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it beforehand for even cooking.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Chicken pasta can be made in advance and stored for easy lunches or dinners.
What type of pasta is best for chicken pasta?
Spaghetti and fettuccine are popular choices, but you can use any pasta you prefer.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative, and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese.
How can I add more vegetables?
Feel free to add bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to the sauce for extra nutrition and flavor.
Conclusion
In summary, chicken pasta is a versatile and delicious dish that can be customized to your taste. With simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, you can create a meal that is satisfying and delightful for any occasion. Enjoy your culinary adventure with this comforting favorite!
Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 200 g pasta spaghetti or fettuccine
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing.
- In the same skillet, add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes and cook until they soften.
- Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for a few minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken, mixing everything well.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top and stir until melted.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.