What makes the perfect weeknight dinner? A hearty serving of homemade pasta smothered in juicy chicken, cooked to perfection with sautéed garlic and herbs. This easy, quick recipe is a family favorite that’s sure to please, made with tender chicken and al dente pasta. Save this idea for a delicious meal anytime.

two plates filled with pasta covered in chicken

Introduction

Imagine sitting down to a meal that’s both comforting and impressive, made with ingredients you likely have on hand. Our “two plates filled with pasta covered in chicken” recipe is exactly that – a dish that combines the simplicity of everyday ingredients with the creativity of a gourmet meal. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, and the best part is, it’s incredibly easy to make. With a focus on balanced flavors and accessible ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, you’ll love the ease and versatility of this dish.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: This recipe strikes the perfect balance between rich, savory flavors and light, fresh notes, all using ingredients that are easily found in most supermarkets.
• Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive presentation, this dish requires minimal preparation and cooking time, making it perfect for busy evenings or special occasions.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The combination of tender pasta, juicy chicken, and a blend of spices and herbs creates a dish that looks and tastes like it was made in a professional kitchen, but requires surprisingly little effort.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients in this recipe include pasta of your choice (linguine, fettuccine, or penne work well), boneless, skinless chicken breasts, olive oil, garlic, onion, bell peppers, tomatoes (canned or fresh), chicken broth, and a mix of Italian seasonings such as basil, oregano, and thyme. For added flavor, you can also use grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Practical substitutions include using different types of pasta, swapping chicken for turkey or shrimp, and adding other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini to the sauce.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preparing your ingredients. Chop the onion, bell peppers, and garlic. Measure out the chicken broth, olive oil, and spices. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it’s translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Add the sliced bell peppers and cook until they start to soften, about 3 minutes.
3. Step 3: Add the chicken to the skillet, seasoning with salt, pepper, and your mix of Italian spices. Cook the chicken until it’s browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Add the canned tomatoes, chicken broth, and reserved pasta water to the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened slightly.
4. Step 4: Slice the cooked chicken into strips and add it back to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat the chicken in the sauce. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the chicken and sauce. Season with additional salt, pepper, and spices as needed. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.

Handy Tips

• Use high-quality ingredients: While this recipe is forgiving, using the best ingredients you can find will elevate the flavors and textures of the dish.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta holds the sauce better and has a nicer texture than overcooked pasta.
• Customize to taste: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, spices, or cheeses to make the dish your own.

Heat Control

For this recipe, it’s essential to control the! heat to prevent burning the garlic or overcooking the chicken. Medium-high heat is ideal for browning the chicken and cooking the vegetables quickly, while medium heat is better for simmering the sauce. Use a thermometer if possible, and adjust the heat based on your stovetop and the size of your skillet. Signs of doneness include the chicken being cooked through (it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F), the vegetables being tender, and the sauce having thickened slightly.

Crunch Factor

This dish should have a nice balance of textures, from the tender pasta and chicken to the crunch of fresh parsley and the slight crispness of cooked bell peppers. To achieve this, don’t overcook the vegetables, and add fresh herbs at the end of cooking. If you prefer a crunchier top, you can also sprinkle some grated cheese on top of the pasta and place it under the broiler for a minute or until the cheese is melted and slightly browned.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use a mixture of olive oil and butter for added richness and flavor.
• Acidity balances flavor: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the dish and balance the richness of the cheese and chicken.
• Cook pasta al dente and reserve pasta water to achieve the perfect sauce consistency.

Storage Tips

• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a bit of chicken broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much.
• For longer storage, cool the dish completely and then freeze it. Frozen leftovers can be reheated in the oven or on the stovetop.
• Best containers for storage are glass or plastic airtight containers. Avoid using metal as it can react with the acidity in the tomatoes.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting this dish, it’s best to package it in a way that keeps it fresh and appealing. Use a decorative glass or ceramic container, and garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. You can also include a baguette or garlic bread on the side for a complete meal. For a more rustic look, use a wooden crate or a wicker basket, lined with a checkered tablecloth or a piece of parchment paper.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Try adding some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or using smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
• Creative toppings: Add some roasted vegetables, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or dill.
• Ingredient swaps: Use turkey or shrimp instead of chicken, or add some sautéed mushrooms or zucchini to the sauce for added flavor and nutrition.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of chicken broth or water. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes or add a bit of tomato paste.
• Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth or even water as a substitute. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and be sure your chicken broth and spices are gluten-free.
• Over/undercooking signs: Check the chicken for doneness by cutting into it; it should be white and juicy. Pasta should be al dente, and vegetables should be tender but still crisp.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, this dish can be frozen. Cool it completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep for up to 3 months. Reheat thawed leftovers in the oven or on the stovetop.
• Is it gluten-free? This recipe can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and ensuring that the chicken broth and spices used are gluten-free.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled or tripled for larger crowds. Just be sure to use a large enough skillet and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Conclusion

This “two plates filled with pasta covered in chicken” recipe is a versatile and delicious meal solution that’s perfect for any occasion. With its balanced flavors, easy preparation, and impressive presentation, it’s sure to become a favorite. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and spices to make it your own, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need further substitutions or variations. Happy cooking, and enjoy the journey of culinary exploration and sharing meals with loved ones!