Description
Creamy Chicken and Vegetable Pasta Recipe
Ingredients:
2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed
12 ounces fettuccine or tagliatelle pasta
1 cup frozen peas
1 cup sliced carrots
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon salt
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Add the peas and carrots to the boiling pasta water for the last 3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and salt until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
4. Add the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well.
5. Toss the cooked pasta and vegetables with the creamy chicken sauce until evenly coated.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy your creamy chicken and vegetable pasta!
#CreamyPasta #ComfortFood
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for perfect results every time. First, ensure all ingredients are prepped: cube the cooked chicken, mince the garlic, and slice the carrots. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil for the pasta. As the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Sauté the garlic just until fragrant—about 60 seconds—to avoid burning. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Let it come to a gentle simmer before reducing the heat to low. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce is velvety. Season with pepper and salt. Two minutes before the pasta is al dente, add the frozen peas and carrot slices directly to the boiling pasta water. Drain the pasta and vegetables together. Add the cooked chicken to the creamy sauce to warm through. Finally, combine the drained pasta and vegetables with the sauce in the skillet, tossing thoroughly to coat every strand. Let it sit for one minute off the heat to allow the sauce to adhere.
Serving Suggestions
This rich pasta dish pairs beautifully with simple, fresh elements. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. For a textural contrast, offer a basket of warm, crusty garlic bread or breadsticks. A glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or a light Chardonnay complements the flavors perfectly. For a family-style presentation, garnish with extra Parmesan and red pepper flakes for those who prefer a little heat.
How-to Summary
In summary: Cook pasta, adding veggies at the end. Sauté garlic in oil. Create a creamy sauce with simmered cream and Parmesan. Warm chicken in the sauce. Toss everything together and garnish with parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different protein? Absolutely. Shredded rotisserie chicken, cooked shrimp, or even sautéed mushrooms make excellent substitutes.
How can I make this recipe lighter? Substitute half the heavy cream with whole milk or a lower-fat evaporated milk. The sauce will be slightly thinner but still delicious.
My sauce seems too thick. How do I fix it? Reserve about 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining. Add it a tablespoon at a time to the finished dish to loosen the sauce to your desired consistency.
Can I prepare this ahead of time? The components can be prepped, but pasta is best served fresh. If needed, store separately and combine gently with a splash of milk when reheating.
What other vegetables can I use? Broccoli florets, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes are great additions. Adjust boiling time for fresh vegetables accordingly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the garlic: Burnt garlic turns bitter. Sauté it only until fragrant.
- Adding cheese to boiling cream: High heat can cause the cheese to seize and become grainy. Always simmer the cream gently and reduce heat before adding Parmesan.
- Using pre-grated cheese: Pre-grated cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. For the creamiest sauce, grate a block of Parmesan yourself.
- Neglecting pasta water: Not salting the pasta water adequately results in under-seasoned pasta.
Conclusion
This creamy chicken and vegetable pasta is the epitome of satisfying comfort food, combining rich flavors with simple techniques. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home that is both impressive and deeply comforting. It’s a versatile recipe that invites customization, ensuring it can become a cherished staple in your weekly dinner rotation. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!