Pasta With Chicken

Name: Pasta With Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 200 g pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine); 2 chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved); 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves for garnish; Parmesan cheese (grated (optional)); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Indulge in the delightful combination of tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta in this easy-to-follow recipe. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this dish will surely impress everyone at the table. With a creamy sauce and vibrant vegetables, your taste buds are in for a treat. Let’s dive into the details and create a masterpiece together!

Ingredients

200g pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine)
2 chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 25 minutes, totaling 40 minutes from start to finish.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 450 calories, 25g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. This is based on a standard serving size and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Start by boiling a pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing it into strips.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine, letting it simmer for 2 minutes.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
Top with sliced chicken, garnish with fresh basil, and serve with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Alternative Ingredients

You can easily substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein source. Additionally, use whole grain or gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary preferences. Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

Serving and Pairings

This pasta with chicken pairs beautifully with a side salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette or roasted vegetables. A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce. The dish can be frozen, but it’s best to consume it fresh for optimal taste.

Cooking Mistakes

Overcooking the pasta can lead to a mushy texture.
Not seasoning the chicken properly will result in bland flavor.
Using too much cream can make the dish overly rich.
Skipping the resting time for chicken can lead to dry meat.
Forgetting to reserve some pasta water can hinder sauce consistency.

Helpful Tips

Always taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safety.
Consider marinating the chicken beforehand for deeper flavor.
Experiment with different herbs to customize the dish.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and safety.

What type of pasta works best?

Spaghetti and fettuccine are excellent choices, but you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time, but it’s best to combine and heat just before serving to maintain the pasta’s texture.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes to the sauce or use spicy chicken seasoning to kick up the heat.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge and reheats nicely, making it perfect for meal prep.

Conclusion

Pasta with chicken is a versatile and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the delightful experience of cooking and savoring each bite!