Taglierini with chicken, Cirio tomatoes, and basil

Taglierini with Chicken, Cirio Tomatoes, and Basil

A dish from Italian cuisine that will win you over from the very first bite! This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the juiciness of chicken with fresh tomatoes and aromatic basil. It's perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. Let's embark together on this culinary journey!

Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 35 minutes
- Total time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4

Ingredients
- 1 box of taglierini (approximately 250 g)
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 1 handful of fresh basil
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 5 cloves of garlic
- 1 glass of Italian Chianti wine (approximately 150 ml)
- 1/4 glass of olive oil
- 1/2 box of Cirio passata (approximately 200 g)
- 1 can of Cirio chopped tomatoes (approximately 400 g)
- Salt and white pepper to taste

A Brief History
Taglierini, a type of long, thin pasta, originates from northern Italy. They are often associated with light sauces, and the combination with chicken and tomatoes is a classic choice. This recipe blends culinary tradition with fresh ingredients, providing you with a hearty and flavorful meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Chicken
- Start by cutting the chicken breast into small, even-sized pieces for even cooking.
- In a large skillet, heat 1/4 glass of olive oil over medium heat. Add two tablespoons of water to prevent excessive frying, which will help retain the juiciness of the chicken.

2. Cooking the Chicken
- Place the chicken pieces in the skillet and let them cook for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
- Add the 5 crushed garlic cloves (you can finely chop them if you prefer) and continue to cook on low heat for 5 minutes. The garlic will add a fantastic aroma!

3. Adding the Tomatoes and Wine
- Now it's time to add the Cirio chopped tomatoes. Stir gently and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- Pour in the Chianti wine and half of the chopped fresh basil. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix well and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.

4. Transferring to the Baking Dish
- Transfer the chicken mixture to a baking dish, add the remaining Cirio passata and the rest of the basil on top. Cover with aluminum foil or leave uncovered, depending on your preference.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven at 250°C (or maximum) and let it bake for 30 minutes. This step will intensify the flavors and help caramelize the chicken.

5. Boiling the Pasta
- While the chicken is baking, bring water to a boil in a large pot. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt.
- When the water starts to boil, add the taglierini and let them cook for 4 minutes. Turn off the heat, cover the pot, and let the pasta swell for 5 minutes.

6. Serving
- Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Place the pasta on a plate, and in the center, add the chicken with sauce.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an attractive appearance and an extra burst of flavor.

Practical Tips
- Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh ingredients for the best results. Cirio tomatoes are known for their quality and are ideal for sauces.
- Variations: You can add vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra color and nutrients. If you prefer a spicier sauce, you can add chili flakes.
- The Wine: If you don't have Chianti, you can use any dry red wine you like. The wine adds depth to the sauce but is optional.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits
This recipe has approximately 600-700 calories per serving, depending on the amount of oil and pasta portion. It is a balanced meal, rich in protein from the chicken and carbohydrates from the pasta. Additionally, tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C and antioxidants.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use whole grain pasta? Yes, whole grain taglierini is a healthy choice and will add a different texture.
- How can I store leftovers? You can store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little water.
- What drinks pair well with this dish? A dry white wine or a gin and tonic cocktail can perfectly complement the flavors.

This recipe for taglierini with chicken, Cirio tomatoes, and basil is not only a delicious option but also a wonderful way to bring a bit of Italy into your kitchen. So, embrace the flavors, enjoy every bite, and most importantly, share this culinary experience with your loved ones! Buon Appetito!