Flavorful chicken with cream and pasta

Recipe for Aromatic Chicken with Cream and Rigatoni Pasta

If you are a pasta lover, you will adore this simple and delicious recipe for Aromatic Chicken with Cream and Rigatoni Pasta. This enticing combination of fresh and flavorful ingredients transforms an ordinary meal into an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you are cooking for family or friends, our dish will surely be a hit at the table. So, let’s get started!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 3 whole chicken thighs
- 1 medium onion
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow for extra color)
- 1 large beautiful tomato
- 3 tablespoons of thick quality cream
- 1 teaspoon of cornstarch
- Herbs: rosemary, basil, thyme, dill, fresh parsley (the fresher, the better)
- 300 g rigatoni pasta
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water to cover the ingredients

The story behind the recipe

This recipe for Aromatic Chicken with Cream and Pasta has deep roots in culinary traditions, where each ingredient brings a bit of well-being and comfort of home. The chicken thighs, with their juicy texture, combine perfectly with the creamy sauce, while the rigatoni pasta absorbs all the flavors, providing a unique taste in every bite.

Step-by-step preparation technique

1. Preparing the chicken thighs: Start by cutting each chicken thigh in half. This will help cook the meat evenly and quickly. Then, place the thighs in a pot with cold water. Boil them for about 10 minutes until foam forms on top. It is important to remove this foam to achieve a clearer and tastier sauce.

2. Sauté the vegetables: In a separate pan, add a little olive oil and sauté the finely chopped onion and diced bell pepper. Cook them over medium heat until they become translucent, about 5 minutes. The aromas will begin to reveal themselves, and your kitchen will be filled with an inviting fragrance.

3. Add the tomato: When the onion and bell pepper are ready, add the diced tomato. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes until the tomato starts to break down and releases its juice.

4. Combine the ingredients: Add the boiled chicken thighs to the pan, mixing well with the other ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Now is the time to add enough water to cover everything.

5. Simmer the mixture: Let everything simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes. This step is essential to allow the flavors to meld, and for the chicken to become tender and juicy.

6. Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, combine the 3 tablespoons of cream with 1 teaspoon of cornstarch and a few tablespoons of the meat broth. Mix well to avoid lumps. Then, add the mixture to the pan, stirring continuously. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.

7. Finishing the dish: Once the sauce has thickened, turn off the heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for an extra touch of freshness.

8. Cook the pasta: In a separate pot, cook the rigatoni pasta according to the package instructions, in salted water with a little oil. Once cooked, drain and add to plates.

9. Serving: Add the chicken thighs with sauce on top of the pasta and serve immediately. Delicious, isn’t it?

Tips and Tricks

- Choosing the meat: Chicken thighs are ideal for this dish due to their fat content, which makes them juicier. If you prefer chicken breast, be sure not to overcook them to avoid dryness.

- Herbs: You can experiment with different herbs depending on your preferences. Adding oregano can provide an interesting flavor.

- Variations: Instead of rigatoni pasta, you can use fusilli or penne. You can also add vegetables like zucchini or carrots for an even more nutritious meal.

- Serving: This recipe pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or a fresh green salad for a refreshing contrast.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritionally balanced. Chicken thighs provide essential proteins, while cream offers healthy fats, contributing to a feeling of fullness. The vegetables add vitamins and antioxidants, and the pasta is a good source of carbohydrates for energy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, turkey is an excellent and equally tasty alternative.

2. Can I prepare the recipe in advance?
Absolutely! The dish keeps well in the refrigerator and can be reheated.

3. What else could I add to the sauce?
A splash of white wine or a few olives can add an extra note of flavor.

Conclusion

The recipe for Aromatic Chicken with Cream and Rigatoni Pasta is an excellent option for a quick and tasty dinner. Enjoy every bite and cherish the time spent in the kitchen. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your loved ones and enjoy their enthusiastic reactions! Bon appétit!