Here's a classic recipe for Creamy Chicken Pasta that serves 4-6 people:
Ingredients:
**For the creamy sauce:**
* 2 tablespoons butter
* 1 medium onion, finely chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 teaspoon dried basil
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* Salt and pepper, to taste
**For the chicken:**
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
* 1 teaspoon olive oil
* Salt and pepper, to taste
**For the pasta:**
* 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine, linguine, or penne)
**Optional ingredients:**
* 1 cup steamed broccoli florets or chopped bell peppers for added color and nutrition
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
* 1/4 cup chopped cooked bacon for added smokiness
* 1/4 cup roasted red bell pepper for a pop of color
* Different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, provolone, or ricotta, for variety
* Sun-dried tomatoes or dried tomato flakes for added flavor
Cooking Steps:
1. **Cook the pasta:** Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. **Cook the chicken:** In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. **Make the creamy sauce:** In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add the butter and let it melt. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. **Add the cream and cheese:** Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt, pepper, basil, and oregano to taste.
5. **Combine the pasta, chicken, and sauce:** In a large serving dish, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and creamy sauce. Toss to combine, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
Tips to Make Creamy Chicken Pasta Tastier:
* Use high-quality cheese for the creamiest sauce.
* Don't overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook slightly after draining.
* Add a splash of white wine or chicken broth to the sauce for added depth of flavor.
* Use fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added brightness and freshness.
* Experiment with different protein options, such as shrimp or turkey, for a unique twist.
* Add some heat with red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Other Versions:
* **Spicy Creamy Chicken Pasta:** Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
* **Italian-Style Creamy Chicken Pasta:** Add some Italian seasonings like oregano, thyme, and basil to the sauce. Top with some grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley.
* **Sun-Dried Tomato Creamy Chicken Pasta:** Add some sun-dried tomatoes or dried tomato flakes to the sauce for a pop of color and added flavor. Top with some chopped fresh parsley and shaved Parmesan cheese.
* **Creamy Chicken and Bacon Pasta:** Add some cooked bacon, diced, to the sauce for a smoky flavor. Top with some chopped fresh parsley and shaved Parmesan cheese.
Feel free to get creative and experiment with different ingredients and flavor combinations to make this recipe your own!
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