If you’re anything like me, figuring out what to cook for dinner can sometimes feel like a big task, especially when you’re short on time or ingredients.
That’s where my go-to chicken pasta recipe comes in handy.
It’s quick, easy, and you probably have most of the ingredients in your kitchen already.
In this guide, I’m going to walk you through how to whip up a delicious chicken pasta dish that’s perfect for any day of the week.
It’s a straightforward recipe that doesn’t require any fancy cooking skills, making it ideal for beginners or anyone looking for a hassle-free meal option.
Let’s get cooking!
Understanding Your Ingredients
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s familiarize ourselves with the ingredients.
This recipe serves 4 people, making it perfect for a family dinner or gathering with friends.
Main Ingredients:
- Chicken Breast: 500 grams, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces. Chicken breast is lean and cooks quickly, making it ideal for pasta dishes.
- Pasta: 400 grams, choose shapes like penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. Pasta is the foundation of this dish, so pick a shape that holds sauce well.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, for cooking. Olive oil adds a rich flavor and helps in sautéing the chicken and vegetables.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced. Garlic adds a punch of flavor and aroma, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
- Onion: 1 large, finely chopped. Onions provide a sweet, caramelized base flavor.
- Bell Peppers: 1 cup, diced. You can use a mix of colors for a vibrant dish.
- Mushrooms: 1 cup, sliced. Mushrooms add an earthy flavor and meaty texture.
- Tomato: 2 large, diced or a can of chopped tomatoes. Tomatoes add acidity and moisture, forming a base for the sauce.
- Chicken Stock: 1 cup, adds depth and enriches the sauce’s flavor.
- Cream: ½ cup, for a rich and creamy sauce.
- Salt and Pepper: to taste, for seasoning.
- Dried Herbs: 1 teaspoon (such as Italian seasoning or oregano), for an aromatic touch.
- Fresh Basil or Parsley: a handful, chopped, for garnish.
Kitchen Tools:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Colander for draining pasta
- Large skillet or frying pan for cooking chicken and sauce
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Chopping board and knife
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
Preparing the Pasta:
- Boil the Water: Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a rolling boil.
- Cooking the Pasta: Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Draining: Once cooked, drain the pasta using a colander and set aside. Drizzle a little olive oil and toss to prevent sticking.
Cooking the Chicken:
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Making the Sauce:
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pan, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Sauté the onions and garlic until soft and fragrant. Add the bell peppers and mushrooms and cook until tender.
- Add Tomatoes: Stir in the diced tomatoes (or canned tomatoes) and cook until the tomatoes break down and become saucy.
- Pour in Liquids: Add the chicken stock and bring to a simmer. Let it reduce slightly, then stir in the cream.
- Seasoning: Add the dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
- Combine with Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the pan and simmer together for a few minutes to let the flavors meld.
Bringing It All Together:
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss well to ensure each piece is beautifully coated.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley over the top for a fresh, herby finish.
Tips for Success:
- Pasta Cooking Water: Save a cup of pasta cooking water before draining. If your sauce needs thinning, add a splash of this starchy water for a silky, well-embraced sauce and pasta.
- Chicken Preparation: Make sure the chicken is cut into even-sized pieces for uniform cooking.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings according to your preference, keeping in mind that flavors will intensify as they cook down.
There you have it—a detailed guide to making a mouthwatering Chicken Pasta dish.
This recipe not only serves as a hearty meal but also as a canvas for you to experiment with and make your own.
Enjoy the process, and relish the delicious results of your hard work. Happy cooking!