Bow Tie Pasta Chicken Confetti Recipe: A Delicious and Colorful Dish
Servings: 4-6 people
**Required Ingredients:**
For the pasta:
* 12 oz (340g) bow tie pasta (farfalle)
* Salt, for cooking
For the chicken:
* 1 1/2 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch (2.5cm) pieces
* 1 tsp (5ml) olive oil
* 1 tsp (5ml) garlic powder
* 1 tsp (5ml) paprika
* 1/2 tsp (2.5ml) salt
* 1/4 tsp (1.25ml) black pepper
For the confetti:
* 1 cup (115g) frozen peas and carrots
* 1 cup (115g) frozen corn kernels
* 1 cup (115g) chopped fresh bell peppers (any color)
* 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 tsp (5ml) grated fresh ginger
* 1/4 tsp (1.25ml) red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
For the sauce:
* 2 cups (475ml) chicken broth
* 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
* 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter
* 1 tsp (5ml) Dijon mustard
* 1 tsp (5ml) dried thyme
* Salt and pepper, to taste
**Cooking Steps:**
1. **Cook the pasta:** Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. **Prepare the chicken:** In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. **Make the confetti:** In the same skillet, add the butter, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook over medium heat until the butter is melted and the mixture is fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the peas, carrots, corn, and bell peppers. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. **Make the sauce:** In a medium saucepan, combine the chicken broth, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and let cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes. Stir in the thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. **Assemble and serve:** In a large serving dish, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and confetti mixture. Pour the sauce over the top and toss until the pasta is well coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water. Serve immediately, garnished with additional thyme and grated Parmesan cheese (if desired).
**Tips and Variations:**
* To make this dish more substantial, add some cooked bacon, prosciutto, or pancetta to the confetti mixture.
* Substitute the chicken with shrimp, scallops, or tofu for a different protein option.
* Add some diced onions, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the confetti mixture for extra flavor and texture.
* Use different colored bell peppers or peppers in various stages of ripeness to create a rainbow effect.
* For a creamier sauce, add more heavy cream or use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.
* Experiment with different spices, such as cumin, paprika, or chili powder, to give the dish a unique flavor profile.
* To make ahead, cook the pasta, chicken, and confetti mixture separately, then reheat and assemble just before serving.
**Correct Cooking Techniques:**
* Cook the pasta al dente to ensure it retains its texture and doesn't become mushy.
* Don't overcook the chicken, as it can become dry and tough. Cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
* Stir constantly when cooking the confetti mixture to ensure the vegetables cook evenly and prevent burning.
* Don't rush the sauce-making process, as it needs time to thicken and develop its flavors.
* Taste and adjust the seasoning as you go to ensure the dish is well-balanced and flavorful.
By following these steps and tips, you'll create a delicious and colorful Bow Tie Pasta Chicken Confetti recipe that's sure to impress your family and friends!
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