Pasta with chicken breast

Delicious pasta recipe with chicken breast and melted cheese

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Discover a simple and delicious recipe for pasta with chicken breast and melted cheese, perfect for family meals or a quick dinner with friends. This recipe combines textures and flavors, offering you not only a hearty dish but also an unforgettable culinary experience.

A bit of history
Pasta is a staple food in the cuisine of many cultures around the world, with deep roots in ancient culinary traditions. It is said that their origins can be traced back to Asia, but they quickly became a symbol of Italian gastronomy. Over the years, pasta has adapted to various ingredients and techniques, and the combination with meat and cheese is a classic, loved by many.

Your basic ingredients
- 300 g pasta (preferably penne or fusilli, to hold the sauce)
- 200 g Delaco Sofia cheese (or another cheese with a rich flavor)
- 1 chicken breast (about 300 g)
- 1 medium carrot
- 1 medium onion
- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow, for a splash of color)
- 1 can of tomatoes in puree (about 400 g)
- salt (to taste)
- pepper (to taste)
- 2-3 tablespoons of oil (olive or sunflower)

Useful tips for ingredients
- Make sure the chicken breast is fresh, as the quality of the meat will significantly influence the flavor of the dish.
- You can replace the cheese with mozzarella for a more elastic texture or with parmesan for a stronger taste.
- If you want to add extra flavor, you can add spices such as oregano or basil.

Step by step: Cooking pasta with chicken breast and cheese

1. Boil the pasta: In a large pot, add water and a quarter teaspoon of salt. Bring the water to a boil. When the water starts to boil, add the pasta and let it cook for 10-12 minutes, or according to the package instructions.

2. Drain the pasta: After the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander, setting it aside to cool slightly.

3. Prepare the meat: In a blender or meat grinder, add the chicken breast cut into cubes, the peeled and chopped carrot, along with a few cloves of garlic (if you want a stronger garlic flavor). Blend the ingredients well until you get a smooth mixture.

4. Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become soft.

5. Cook the sauce: Over the sautéed vegetables, add the can of tomatoes with all the juice. Let it simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Then add the ground chicken, carrot, and garlic. Stir continuously and let it cook until the meat is completely white. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Combine the pasta with the sauce: In a large bowl, add the cooked pasta and the meat sauce. Mix well so that the pasta is completely coated with the sauce.

7. Prepare for the oven: Grease a clay or glass baking dish with a little butter to prevent sticking. Place half of the pasta in the dish, sprinkle a generous layer of grated cheese, add the remaining pasta, and top with cheese at the end.

8. Bake the dish: Preheat the oven to 180°C and place the dish with pasta inside. Let it bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese on top becomes golden and melted.

9. Serving: Once the dish is ready, let it cool slightly before portioning. Serve warm, possibly with a fresh green salad on the side.

Personal notes
This pasta recipe with chicken breast and cheese is an excellent choice for days when you don't have much time but want to enjoy something tasty. It can be easily adapted by adding your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli or zucchini. Additionally, if you want a healthier version, you can use whole grain pasta.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Yes, whole grain pasta is an excellent option for a healthier alternative and will add a slightly nutty flavor.

2. How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop before serving.

3. Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Sure! Turkey is a wonderful alternative and will provide the same flavor.

4. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine or fresh lemonade are excellent options that perfectly complement the flavors of this dish.

Nutritional benefits
This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, and the vegetables add essential vitamins such as vitamin A (from the carrot) and vitamin C (from the bell pepper). The pasta contributes complex carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy.

Estimated calories
A serving of pasta with chicken breast and cheese has approximately 450-500 calories, depending on the amount of oil and type of cheese used.

Enjoy this simple, flavorful dish, and don’t forget to share the recipe with your loved ones! Bon appétit!