Description
Grilled Chicken Pasta
Ingredients:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
300g fettuccine or pasta of your choice
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Heat a grill pan over medium heat, add 1 tbsp olive oil, and grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Remove from heat and let it rest before slicing.
2. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In a skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and cook until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and more Italian seasoning if desired.
4. Combine:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce evenly.
5. Assemble:
Serve the pasta in bowls, topped with sliced grilled chicken. Garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Enjoy your creamy and flavorful Grilled Chicken Pasta!
#PastaRecipe #ComfortFood
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect results. First, pound your chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure they cook uniformly. While the grill pan heats, season the chicken generously. After grilling, let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing to retain juices. For the sauce, keep the heat at a gentle simmer after adding the cream to prevent it from breaking or scalding. Add the Parmesan cheese off the direct heat at first, stirring constantly until it melts smoothly into the cream. Finally, reserve 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining. When combining, add this water a little at a time to help the sauce cling to the pasta beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
This rich pasta dish pairs wonderfully with simple, fresh sides. Serve with a crisp arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. For a vegetable side, roasted asparagus or broccoli florets are excellent. To elevate the meal, offer crusty garlic bread or a warm, seeded baguette for soaking up the extra sauce. For a wine pairing, choose a medium-bodied white like Chardonnay or a light red such as Pinot Noir.
How-to Summary
In summary: Grill seasoned chicken and let it rest. Cook pasta in salted water, saving some pasta water. Sauté garlic, simmer cream, and melt in Parmesan to create the sauce. Toss drained pasta with the sauce, using reserved pasta water to adjust consistency. Slice the chicken, top the pasta, and garnish with parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different protein? Absolutely. Grilled shrimp, sliced steak, or even sautéed mushrooms make great substitutes for the chicken.
How can I make this recipe lighter? Substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat evaporated milk. You can also use a lighter pasta like chickpea or lentil pasta.
My sauce is too thick. How do I fix it? Thin it out by gradually stirring in your reserved pasta water, milk, or a bit more cream until you reach the desired consistency.
Can I prepare any components ahead of time? Yes. You can grill and slice the chicken, and even prepare the sauce a day ahead. Store separately in the fridge. Reheat the sauce gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or milk.
Why did my sauce curdle or separate? This usually happens if the heat is too high when cooking the cream or if the cheese is added too quickly. Always simmer gently and add cheese off direct heat, stirring constantly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the chicken, which leads to dryness—use a meat thermometer and aim for 165°F. Do not discard the starchy pasta water; it’s essential for creating a silky, cohesive sauce. Never add Parmesan cheese to boiling liquid, as high heat can cause it to clump. Finally, do not rinse your cooked pasta, as this washes away the starch needed for the sauce to adhere.
Conclusion
This Grilled Chicken Pasta recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a truly decadent and satisfying meal. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can avoid common pitfalls and master a creamy, restaurant-quality dish at home. It’s a versatile recipe perfect for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests. Remember to pair it with a fresh side, and don’t forget that crucial pasta water for the perfect sauce. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!