Name: Chicken Pasta Delight: Easy Recipe with Turkey Bacon Twist
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces uncooked pasta; 2 tablespoons butter; 1/2 tablespoon flour; 3-4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1/3 cup dry white wine or chicken broth; 1 cup heavy/whipping cream; 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 2 cups cooked/rotisserie chicken, shredded; 1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (plus more for serving); 1 small handful fresh basil (torn/chopped); Salt & pepper (to taste)

Introduction to Chicken Pasta

Discover the joy of homemade chicken pasta

There's something simply delightful about a warm bowl of chicken pasta. This dish combines the heartiness of tender chicken with the comforting embrace of perfectly cooked pasta, creating a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. Not only is it satisfying, but it's also incredibly versatile, allowing you to whip up a stunning dinner with minimal fuss.

Imagine sautéing fragrant garlic and tossing in luscious sun-dried tomatoes, all while the pasta cooks to perfection. You’ll love knowing that you can customize each bite to your liking—add more spice, toss in some vegetables, or experiment with different cheeses. A recipe for chicken pasta shines with possibilities!

In today's fast-paced world, cooking at home can feel like a luxury. Yet, preparing a dish like this can be almost meditative, letting you unwind after a busy day. You’ll even find that cooking not only nourishes your body but also your soul. As you learn to navigate through each step, you'll be amazed at how easy—and enjoyable—it is to create something so delicious.

Ready to get cooking? Let's dive into this chicken pasta recipe that’s sure to impress! For some additional tips and tricks on cooking pasta perfectly, check out resources from The Pasta School and Food Network.

Ingredients for Chicken Pasta

Creating the perfect chicken pasta dish starts with gathering the right ingredients. Here's what you'll need for a flavorful experience that’s both comforting and satisfying.

List of Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Dish

8 ounces uncooked pasta: Your choice of pasta, like penne or fettuccine, really makes a difference.
2 tablespoons butter: For a rich, creamy base.
½ tablespoon flour: This helps thicken your sauce perfectly.
3-4 cloves garlic, minced: Packed with flavor, garlic is a must-have!
1 tablespoon tomato paste: Adds depth and a hint of sweetness.
⅓ cup chicken broth: A fantastic alternative to wine, enhancing the flavor.
1 cup heavy/whipping cream: For that luscious creaminess.
⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes: They bring a delicious tang.
½ teaspoon dried oregano: A touch of herbaceous flavor.
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: For a slight kick.
2 cups cooked/rotisserie chicken, shredded: Easy and quick protein.
⅓ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: Essential for that cheesy goodness.
1 small handful fresh basil, torn: Freshens up the dish.
Salt & pepper to taste: Simple yet crucial.

Feel free to experiment with variations to make it your own! For more cooking tips and tricks, you can check out Serious Eats or The Kitchn. Enjoy whipping up your chicken pasta!

Step-by-step Preparation of Chicken Pasta

Cooking can often feel daunting, especially after a long day at work. But I promise you, making chicken pasta is not only simple but also incredibly rewarding! Let’s break it down step-by-step.

Boil the pasta

Start by boiling a generously salted pot of water. This step is crucial because it enhances the flavor of the pasta as it cooks. Once the water comes to a rolling boil, add 8 ounces of uncooked pasta of your choice (I love using penne or fusilli for this recipe!). Cook according to package directions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. It’s a perfect time to tidy up the kitchen or prepare your other ingredients!

Prepare the creamy sauce

While your pasta is boiling, grab a skillet and heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, sprinkle in ½ tablespoon of flour, stirring often for about a minute to form a roux. Add 3-4 minced cloves of garlic and 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, stirring until the garlic becomes fragrant. To deglaze, pour in ⅓ cup of chicken broth—this not only adds depth but also gives you a rich, creamy sauce. Let it bubble away for about a minute.

Incorporate chicken and seasonings

Now it’s time to elevate your sauce! Whisk in 1 cup of heavy cream, then stir in ⅓ cup of sun-dried tomatoes, ½ teaspoon of dried oregano, and ¼ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to introduce a little heat. The star of the show—2 cups of shredded or rotisserie chicken—can be added next. Stir this mixture and let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens to your liking. This step is where your chicken pasta starts to truly take shape.

Combine pasta and sauce

By this stage, your pasta should be done. Drain it well but don’t rinse, as you want the starch to help the sauce cling on beautifully. Toss the drained pasta into the skillet with the creamy chicken mixture. Stir well to ensure each piece is generously coated.

Final touches and plating

To give your dish that final burst of flavor, mix in ⅓ cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese and a small handful of torn or chopped fresh basil. Don’t forget to season your creation with salt and pepper to taste! Now, scoop your delicious chicken pasta onto plates, garnish with extra parmesan, and perhaps a sprinkle of fresh basil for that restaurant-style flair.

Give it a try tonight and watch your culinary confidence soar! If you’re interested in perfecting your pasta skills, check out this pasta cooking guide. Enjoy!

Variations on Chicken Pasta

Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

Transform your classic chicken pasta by adding a vibrant creamy pesto sauce. Blend fresh basil, garlic, parmesan, and a splash of cream for a delightful twist. It’s like a hug in a bowl! Drizzle olive oil and toss in some pine nuts for added texture. Discover more unique pesto recipes here.

Spicy Chicken Pasta with Red Pepper

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, try a spicy chicken pasta with red pepper. Sauté red bell peppers and toss them with your chicken and pasta. Add a kick with crushed red pepper flakes—perfect for a cozy evening in. Want to spice things up? Check out these tips on incorporating spicy ingredients here.

Chicken Pasta with Seasonal Vegetables

Embrace the freshness of the season with a chicken pasta featuring seasonal vegetables. Think zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus, sautéed to perfection. This variation not only boosts nutrition but also adds vibrant colors to your plate, making it an Instagram-worthy dish! Learn more about seasonal ingredients here.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Chicken Pasta

Cooking chicken pasta can be a delightful experience, especially when you keep a few essential tips in mind. First, remember to cook your pasta al dente; it adds a satisfying texture to your dish. Use a high-quality chicken broth in place of wine for a rich flavor—your taste buds will thank you!

If you're using rotisserie chicken, be sure to shred it beforehand and warm it in the sauce for maximum juiciness. Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley to elevate the dish. For a bit of zing, consider adding some lemon juice at the end.

For more tips on cooking with chicken, check out this guide. You’ll be a chicken pasta pro in no time!