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Family-friendly dishes for busy people — quick prep, delicious results.
Grab yours for $4Whether you’re preparing a casual family dinner or hosting a special celebration, this Simple Chicken Pasta delivers impressive results with straightforward preparation.
The harmonious balance of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a creamy sauce creates a memorable dining experience that will have everyone asking for your secret.
I discovered this recipe during my travels through Italy, where local chefs have perfected it through generations of careful refinement.
Its appeal lies in its simplicity and the rich, comforting flavors that come together effortlessly.
This dish is a perfect way to bring the warmth of Italian cuisine to your family table.
The History and Cultural Significance
• Simple Chicken Pasta traces its origins to Italy, where it was originally created by home cooks looking to make the most of simple ingredients.
• The dish evolved over decades as pasta became more widely available, eventually becoming the beloved version we know today.
• In Italian culture, this dish traditionally appears at family gatherings, symbolizing warmth and togetherness.
• While many variations exist across different regions, the authentic version maintains a creamy sauce that sets it apart from imitations.
Recipe Overview
Nutritional Information
Essential Equipment Guide
Large Pot: Essential for cooking the pasta to ensure it has enough space to move freely and cook evenly. Alternatives include a Dutch oven, but ensure it is large enough.
Non-stick Skillet: Important for cooking the chicken without sticking, allowing for a nice sear. Cast iron can work as an alternative but requires more oil.
Fine Grater: Useful for grating Parmesan cheese finely, which aids in even melting and distribution. A microplane is an excellent alternative.
Ingredients
For the Base
|
|
| Amount | Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 8 oz | chicken breast | sliced into thin strips |
| 10 oz | penne pasta | cooked al dente |
For the Sauce
| Amount | Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 cup | heavy cream | adds richness |
| 1 cup | Parmesan cheese | freshly grated for best flavor |
Vegetables
| Amount | Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2 cloves | garlic | minced |
| 1 medium | onion | finely chopped |
Seasonings
| Amount | Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 teaspoon | salt | enhances flavor |
| 1 teaspoon | black pepper | freshly ground |
Optional Garnish
| Amount | Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 tablespoon | parsley | chopped for freshness |
Preparation Methods
Sautéing: This method involves cooking the chicken and vegetables quickly in a small amount of oil. This technique is crucial for locking in juices and building layers of flavor. Ensure the pan is hot before adding ingredients to achieve a quick sear.
Deglazing: After sautéing, deglazing involves adding liquid to the hot pan to lift browned bits from the bottom. This step is key for enhancing the sauce's flavor.
Emulsifying: This technique involves combining the cheese and cream until smooth. It ensures the sauce remains creamy without separating.
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients and equipment.
Slice the chicken breast into thin strips.
Chop the onion finely and mince the garlic.
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for even cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil.
Add a pinch of salt to the boiling water.
Cook the penne pasta until al dente, about 10 minutes.
Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.
Step 3: Sauté the Chicken
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
Add a tablespoon of oil and let it heat up.
Sauté the chicken strips until browned and cooked through.
Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add more oil if necessary.
Sauté chopped onion until translucent.
Add minced garlic and continue to sauté for another minute.
Ensure garlic does not burn for optimal flavor.
Step 5: Deglaze the Pan
Pour a splash of pasta water into the skillet.
Scrape the bottom of the skillet to lift any browned bits.
This step enhances the flavor of the sauce.
Allow the liquid to reduce slightly.
Step 6: Prepare the Sauce
Add heavy cream to the skillet.
Bring the cream to a gentle simmer.
Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Continue stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 7: Combine Pasta and Chicken
Return the chicken to the skillet with the sauce.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet.
Toss everything together until well combined.
Ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
Step 8: Season and Serve
Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Transfer the pasta to a serving dish.
Garnish with chopped parsley for freshness.
Serve immediately while hot.
Critical Timing and Temperature Guide
Cooking Pasta: Cook for exactly 10 minutes or until al dente; overcooking leads to mushy pasta.
Sautéing Chicken: Ensure the skillet is hot before adding chicken; look for a golden-brown color as an indicator of doneness.
Simmering Sauce: Maintain a gentle simmer to avoid curdling; a smooth, thick consistency indicates readiness.
Pro Tips for Simple Chicken Pasta
• Ingredient Selection: Choose high-quality Parmesan cheese and fresh cream for the richest sauce.
• Preparation Secret: Rest pasta for a few minutes after cooking to improve texture absorption of the sauce.
• Temperature Management: Use room temperature ingredients to ensure even cooking and prevent sauce separation.
• Texture Enhancement: Finish pasta in the sauce for the last few minutes to achieve a cohesive texture.
• Flavor Layering: Incorporate browned bits from the pan for depth of flavor.
• Make-Ahead Strategies: Prepare sauce components in advance; store separately and combine when ready to serve.
• Restaurant-Quality Finishing Touches: Add a drizzle of olive oil and a touch of lemon zest before serving for enhanced freshness.
• Equipment Optimization: Use a high-quality non-stick skillet to achieve the best sauté results.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
• Sauce Too Thick: If sauce becomes too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until desired consistency is reached.
• Chicken Overcooked: Avoid overcooking by removing chicken from heat as soon as it turns golden.
• Pasta Sticking: Prevent sticking by stirring pasta occasionally during boiling and tossing with oil after draining.
• Sauce Separating: Keep sauce at a gentle simmer; avoid boiling to prevent separation.
• Flavors Unbalanced: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper; add a dash of lemon juice for brightness.
Variations and Regional Differences
• Italian Style: Often includes sun-dried tomatoes and spinach for added color and flavor.
• American Version: Typically uses a thicker cream-based sauce and may include mushrooms.
• Mediterranean Twist: Incorporates olives and feta cheese for a tangy, savory profile.
• Spicy Variation: Adds red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Food Science Behind the Recipe
• Emulsification: Combining cheese and cream creates a stable sauce; understanding this prevents separation.
• Maillard Reaction: Sautéing chicken at high heat develops rich flavors through browning.
• Starch Release: Cooking pasta releases starch, which aids in sauce adhesion and thickening.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the most common mistake people make when preparing Simple Chicken Pasta? Overcooking the pasta is the most common mistake, leading to a mushy texture.
Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, any pasta shape can work, but adjust cooking time as needed.
How can I make this dish healthier? Substitute cream with a lighter option like half-and-half and use whole wheat pasta.
Is there a vegetarian option? Yes, you can omit chicken and add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? You can prepare components in advance but combine them just before serving.
Why does my sauce separate? Maintaining a gentle simmer and using room-temperature ingredients prevents separation.
How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving and Presentation Guide
• Traditional Presentation: Serve in a large, shallow bowl with a sprinkle of Parmesan and parsley on top.
• Family Style: Present in a large serving dish, allowing guests to serve themselves.
• Elegant Plating: Nest pasta in individual bowls, topping with freshly grated cheese and a sprig of parsley.
• Casual Setting: Serve directly from the skillet for an authentic, rustic feel.
Conclusion
I hope this Simple Chicken Pasta recipe becomes a favorite in your household.
Its blend of rich flavors and simple preparation makes it perfect for any occasion.
Give it a try and bring a taste of Italy to your table.
