Italian Chicken Pasta is a delicious and comforting meal that combines tender chicken, flavorful spices, and a creamy sauce, all served over a bed of spaghetti. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in, offering a taste of Italy with its blend of herbs and rich flavors.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 5 Boneless skinless chicken breast cutlets
- 12 oz. Spaghetti noodles
- ½ cup Flour
- 1 tsp. Salt
- ¼ tsp. Pepper
- 1 tsp. Garlic powder
- 2 tsp. Italian seasoning
- 2 Tbsp. Oil
For the Sauce:
- 4 Tbsp. Butter
- 1 Onion, chopped
- 4 tsp. Minced garlic
- 2 Small tomatoes, diced
- 1 Tbsp. Flour
- 1 cup Heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp. Salt
- ¼ tsp. Red pepper flakes
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta: Cook the spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Season the Chicken: In a bowl, combine ½ cup flour, 1 tsp. salt, ¼ tsp. pepper, 1 tsp. garlic powder, and 2 tsp. Italian seasoning. Coat the chicken breast cutlets in the flour mixture.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 2 Tbsp. oil over medium heat. Add the chicken cutlets and cook until golden brown on each side and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 4 Tbsp. butter. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
Step 5: Add Tomatoes: Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet with the onion and garlic. Cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes are softened.
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce: Sprinkle 1 Tbsp. flour over the onion and tomato mixture. Stir and cook for a minute to remove the raw flour taste.
Step 7: Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in 1 cup of heavy whipping cream, stirring continuously. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Add ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tsp. Italian seasoning, ½ tsp. salt, and ¼ tsp. red pepper flakes. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 8: Combine with Chicken: Return the cooked chicken cutlets to the skillet. Coat the chicken with the sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes to reheat the chicken and meld the flavors.
Step 9: Serve: Serve the chicken and sauce over the cooked spaghetti noodles. If desired, garnish with additional Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs.
Cooking Note:
Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety. The sauce should be creamy but not too thick; you can adjust the consistency with a little more cream or some pasta water if necessary.
Serving Suggestions:
Italian Chicken Pasta can be accompanied by a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. It pairs well with a glass of white wine or a light red wine.
Tips:
- Chicken Preparation: If the chicken cutlets are thick, you can pound them to an even thickness for quicker and more even cooking.
- Pasta Water: Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce's consistency if needed.
- Fresh Ingredients: For enhanced flavor, use fresh garlic and ripe tomatoes.
- Cheese Quality: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture in the sauce.
Prep Time:
- 20 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 30 minutes
Total Time:
- 50 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 500-600 calories per serving
- Protein: Roughly 30-35 grams per serving
- Sodium: Estimated 800-1000 mg per serving
Conclusion
Italian Chicken Pasta is a delightful and satisfying dish that combines the comforting taste of pasta with a creamy, flavorful chicken. It's a versatile recipe that you can tweak to suit your tastes, making it a wonderful choice for a hearty family meal or a special occasion dinner. Enjoy the rich flavors and the simple pleasure of a homemade Italian-inspired dish!
Leave a Reply