Pasta with chicken

Pasta with Chicken in Tomato and Cheese Sauce – Delicious and Simple Recipe

I invite you to discover a recipe that perfectly combines flavors and textures, offering you a savory and comforting dish: pasta with chicken in tomato sauce, topped with mozzarella and parmesan cheese. This dish is ideal for a quick yet delicious dinner, perfect to be enjoyed alongside a glass of chilled white wine. Before we begin, let’s take a brief look at the history of this dish.

The History of Chicken Pasta

Chicken pasta represents a classic example of comfort food, combining simple yet flavorful ingredients. The origins of this dish are deeply rooted in culinary traditions, where each ingredient has its place and role. Chicken, rich in protein, pairs perfectly with pasta, while the tomato sauce adds a note of freshness and acidity. This recipe proves to be not only tasty but also very versatile, allowing you to experiment with various ingredients and spices.

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

Ingredients:
- 400 g pasta (preferably penne or fusilli)
- 250 g chicken breast (about half a breast)
- 1 cup tomato juice (about 250 ml)
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper (or to taste)
- 100 g mozzarella (sliced)
- 50 g grated parmesan
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1-2 tablespoons margarine (optional)

Preparation Technique:

1. Boiling the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add 1-2 tablespoons of salt and a splash of olive oil. When the water starts to boil, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes). Make sure the pasta is al dente, meaning it should be slightly firm to the bite. After boiling, drain the pasta and quickly rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.

2. Preparing the Chicken
Meanwhile, cut the chicken breast into evenly sized cubes for uniform cooking. In a large skillet, heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic will give a bitter taste to the dish.

Then, add the chicken cubes to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden and cooked through. Add the tomato juice, rosemary, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes to blend the flavors.

3. Assembling the Dish
In a baking dish, add the cooked pasta. Pour the chicken and tomato sauce mixture over the pasta. Gently mix to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with sauce. Add the margarine on top for extra creaminess (optional).

Cover everything with the mozzarella slices and sprinkle the grated parmesan on top. This layer of cheese will melt and form a delicious crust.

4. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly. It’s the perfect time to get ready to enjoy a delicious meal!

5. Serving
Remove the dish from the oven (be careful, it’s hot!) and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve the pasta hot, sprinkled with a little fresh basil if you have it on hand. A fresh green salad and a glass of chilled white wine pair perfectly with this dish.

Practical Tips:
- You can use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option, which will also add extra nutrients.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or gouda, to give it a personalized touch.
- Add vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to the tomato sauce to enrich the dish.
- If you like spicy food, add a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen chicken breast? Yes, but make sure to completely thaw it before cutting and cooking.
- How can I make the recipe quicker? You can use pre-cooked chicken or leftover rotisserie chicken to save time.
- What are the vegan options? Replace the chicken with tofu or mushrooms and use vegan cheese.

Nutritional Benefits:
This chicken pasta recipe is an excellent source of protein due to the chicken breast, while the tomato juice provides important antioxidants like lycopene. Additionally, the pasta contributes complex carbohydrates, offering long-lasting energy.

Calories:
A serving of chicken pasta (approximately 250 g) contains between 500 and 600 calories, depending on the type of cheese and oil used.

Serving Suggestions:
This pasta pairs perfectly with a simple green salad or a tomato and cucumber salad. A glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, will perfectly complement this meal.

Enjoy every bite and savor the moments spent in the kitchen, turning each recipe into an unforgettable memory!