Pasta with chicken

Pasta with Chicken in Creamy Tomato and Basil Sauce

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Introduction

Pasta with chicken is a comforting and versatile dish, perfect for a quick yet delicious dinner. This recipe combines the rich flavors of tomato sauce with cheese, the creaminess of sour cream, and the juiciness of chicken, resulting in a meal that will delight the whole family. There are many stories surrounding pasta, but their essence remains constant: they are a symbol of comfort and conviviality. Let's discover together how to prepare this savory dish!

Ingredients

- 1 chicken breast (approximately 400-500g)
- 500g pasta (spaghetti, penne, or any preferred type)
- 200g cheese tomato sauce (or plain tomato sauce, to which you add cheese at the end)
- 1 clove of garlic
- 2 tablespoons of sour cream
- 1 egg (only the yolk)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 30g butter
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Boiling the pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a teaspoon of salt and then the chosen pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8 and 12 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold running water to stop the cooking process. Toss it with a tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking.

2. Preparing the chicken: Meanwhile, cut the chicken breast into strips about 1 cm wide. In a deep skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and add the crushed garlic clove. Sauté for one minute, being careful not to burn it. Add the chicken strips and cook until golden and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Creating the sauce: Once the chicken is cooked, pour the cheese tomato sauce over the meat, stirring well. Let it simmer on low heat for 2-3 minutes, then add the sour cream and egg yolk, stirring continuously to avoid curdling. Season with salt, pepper, and dried basil to taste.

4. Mixing the ingredients: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken sauce and mix well, ensuring each piece of pasta is coated with the creamy sauce. Let it cook for a few minutes to meld the flavors, then turn off the heat.

5. Serving: Plate the pasta and, if desired, sprinkle some grated cheese on top, along with a few fresh basil leaves for added freshness. This dish can be served with a simple green salad or warm focaccia.

Practical Tips

- Choosing pasta: Use whole grain pasta for added fiber and nutrients. This will add a richer taste and pleasant texture.
- Tomato sauce: If you want a richer sauce, add some black olives or mushrooms. You can use homemade tomato sauce, which will provide an authentic taste.
- Variations: Experiment with vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, adding them to the skillet after the chicken is cooked. This will add extra flavor and nutrients.
- Recommended drinks: This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of dry white wine or freshly squeezed lemonade.

Nutritional Information

This chicken pasta recipe offers a balanced ratio of protein (from chicken and sour cream), carbohydrates (from pasta), and healthy fats (from olive oil). Each serving contains approximately 500-600 calories, depending on the amount of sauce and oil used. This is an excellent choice for a nutritious meal that will satisfy both hunger and the body's nutritional needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Turkey is a healthy and equally delicious alternative.

2. How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can skip the meat and add tofu or mushrooms to create a vegetarian dish.

3. What is the best type of cheese for the sauce?
Parmesan or mozzarella cheese works great in the tomato sauce, adding a creamy texture.

This chicken pasta recipe is not only simple but also full of flavors, ideal for a quick and tasty dinner. Try it and you will discover a dish that you will repeat again and again. Enjoy your meal!