Description
Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta
Ingredients:
8 oz spaghetti
2 chicken breasts, cubed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions, drain, and set aside. 2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add chicken, season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until golden brown. Remove and set aside. 3. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. 4. Pour in diced tomatoes and simmer for 5 minutes. 5. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes. 6. Add cooked chicken and spaghetti, tossing to coat in the sauce. 7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
#ChickenPasta #CreamyTomatoPasta
Step-by-Step Guide
Begin by gathering all ingredients. Cook the spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water. Meanwhile, pat the chicken breasts dry and cube them into uniform, bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer, cooking undisturbed for 4-5 minutes per side until deeply golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside. Reduce heat to medium, add the minced garlic to the skillet, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy pasta is best served immediately. For a complete meal, pair it with a simple side salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette or some garlic bread. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes on the table allows guests to customize their plate. For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Cook and drain pasta. Sear seasoned chicken cubes until golden, then remove. Sauté garlic, add tomatoes and simmer. Stir in cream, Parmesan, and optional red pepper flakes. Combine sauce with the cooked pasta and chicken, tossing everything together. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely. Boneless, skinless thighs will yield a juicier, more flavorful result. Just ensure they are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.
How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny? Let it simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes to reduce. Alternatively, add a slurry of 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water, stirring until thickened.
What’s the best substitute for heavy cream? Full-fat evaporated milk or a mix of milk and cream cheese are good alternatives that will still provide a creamy texture.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? You can prep the components (cook chicken, make sauce) separately, but combine them just before serving to prevent the pasta from absorbing all the sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Chicken: This leads to dry, tough meat. Remove it from the pan as soon as it’s cooked through.
- Burning the Garlic: Garlic burns quickly. Sauté it on medium heat for only 30-60 seconds.
- Using Pre-Grated Parmesan: These products contain anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. Always grate fresh Parmesan for the smoothest melt.
- Not Reserving Pasta Water: The starchy water is a key tool for adjusting sauce consistency at the end.
Conclusion
This Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta is the perfect balance of comforting, flavorful, and quick to prepare. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality dish that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite. Its creamy tomato sauce, tender chicken, and al dente pasta come together for a truly satisfying meal. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!