Chicken Pasta
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 10 ounces penne pasta
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 teaspoons garlic minced
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes drained
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil for garnish
chicken pasta:
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain it and set it aside while you move on to prepare the chicken and sauce.
Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, around 1 inch each, and season them generously with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for 6-8 minutes until they are fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
sauce:
In the same skillet, add butter and melt it over medium heat. Once melted, sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant.
Add flour to the skillet and stir continuously to form a smooth paste.
Gradually pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese while whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
Stir in the drained sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Stir well to ensure that the chicken and pasta are evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
Garnish with chopped basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired, before serving.
Chicken Selection: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. Ensure the chicken is cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.
Pasta Options: While penne pasta is commonly used, feel free to substitute with your favorite pasta shape such as fettuccine, spaghetti, or rigatoni.
Seasoning: Adjust the amount of salt and pepper to suit your taste preferences. You can also add additional herbs and spices to the chicken for extra flavor.
Creamy Sauce: For a richer sauce, you can increase the amount of heavy cream or add a splash of white wine for depth of flavor.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Opt for sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for a more intense flavor. If using sun-dried tomatoes that are not packed in oil, you may need to soak them in warm water to soften before using.
Garnish: Fresh basil adds a vibrant touch to the dish, but you can also use parsley or chopped green onions for garnish.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Variations: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrients.
Serve with: Serve the Chicken Pasta with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. A glass of white wine pairs nicely with the creamy sauce.
Enjoy: Enjoy this delicious Chicken Pasta recipe with your family and friends for a satisfying and comforting meal!
Calories: 646kcal | Carbohydrates: 51g | Protein: 41g | Fat: 31g | Saturated Fat: 17g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 145mg | Sodium: 962mg | Potassium: 1248mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 1260IU | Vitamin C: 9mg | Calcium: 278mg | Iron: 3mg