Pasta with chicken and beans

Pasta with Chicken and Beans: A Hearty and Nutritious Delight

Total Time: 40 minutes
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Number of Servings: 4

Who doesn't love a warm and comforting meal that combines the flavors of fresh ingredients with a perfect texture? The recipe for pasta with chicken and beans is an excellent choice for a quick yet nutritious dinner. This simple recipe is ideal for busy days when we want to feed our family something tasty and healthy. Plus, it can be prepared in a very short time.

A Brief History of the Recipe

Pasta is a staple ingredient in many culinary cultures around the world. Over time, it has evolved to become a symbol of comfort and conviviality. The combination with chicken and beans is not only delicious but also rich in protein and essential nutrients, making this recipe a perfect choice for a balanced meal.

Ingredients

- 300 g pasta (preferably penne or fusilli)
- 200 g chicken breast (cut into cubes)
- 3 slices of bacon (sliced)
- 1 carrot (grated)
- 1 onion (sliced julienne)
- 1 red bell pepper (diced)
- 200 g tomato sauce (preferably homemade or quality canned)
- 200 g cooked beans (can be white or red, according to preference)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (dissolved in a little water)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish and flavor)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or sunflower oil)

Cooking Techniques

1. Boiling the pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a teaspoon of salt (to flavor the pasta) and then the pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This step is essential to prevent the pasta from becoming sticky.

2. Preparing the chicken and vegetables: In a large skillet, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chicken cubes and bacon slices. Cook until golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the onion, carrot, and bell pepper. Sauté the vegetables for 5-6 minutes until slightly soft. This mixture will provide flavor and texture to the final dish.

3. Preparing the sauce: Try to use a quality tomato sauce, as it will significantly influence the final taste of the dish. After the vegetables have sautéed, add the tomato sauce and cooked beans. Let the mixture simmer on low heat, covered, for about 15 minutes. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little water. Finally, add the dissolved cornstarch and mix well. Let it cook for another 5 minutes to thicken the sauce.

4. Finishing the dish: Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir well to coat the pasta in the flavorful sauce. This is the perfect time to adjust the seasonings by adding salt and pepper to taste.

5. Serving: Serve the pasta with chicken and beans hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. A serving suggestion would be to add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top for extra flavor.

Variations and Practical Tips

- For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and bacon and add more vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant.
- If you want a spicier flavor, add chili flakes during cooking.
- For extra crunch, top with some roasted nuts or pumpkin seeds before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Absolutely! Whole grain pasta is a healthy choice and will give a slightly different but absolutely delicious flavor.

2. What sauces can I use instead of tomato sauce?
You can experiment with cream-based sauces or pesto for a different flavor.

3. How can I store leftovers?
The pasta can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken and beans, while also providing complex carbohydrates from the pasta. The carrot and bell pepper add a dose of vitamins and antioxidants, making this dish a balanced and healthy choice.

Conclusion

Pasta with chicken and beans is not only a filling meal but also a culinary experience that brings people together. This simple and quick recipe will transform your ordinary meals into true celebrations of flavors. Start cooking and let yourself be carried away by the delicious aromas!