Creamy Basil Chicken Pasta
This is a rich and creamy pasta that has quickly become a favorite with my family and friends. I like lots of garlic so feel free to cut the amount down to suit your personal tastes.
This is a rich and creamy pasta that has quickly become a favorite with my family and friends. I like lots of garlic so feel free to cut the amount down to suit your personal tastes.
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- â¼ cup olive oil
- 1 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1 pound champanelle or gemelli noodles
- 1 pound (about 2 large) boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- â½ cup breadcrumbs
- 6-8 cloves garlic minced
- 2-3 cups finely shredded fontina cheese
- Carbohydrate 5.43002253839695 g
- Cholesterol 2084.5450003116 mg
- Fat 435.554830148257 g
- Fiber 0.199440705843461 g
- Protein 460.13632644697 g
- Saturated Fat 146.857617167769 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (3543g)
- Sodium 1785.53478213771 mg
- Sugar 5.23058183255349 g
- Trans Fat 34.8129067351088 g
- Calories 5893 calories
Step-by-step
- Boil pasta per package directions. Drain (do not rinse!) and put back into pot. Add about a tablespoon of olive oil and then cover to keep warm.
- While the pasta is boiling chop chicken and place in zip top storage bag. Add breadcrumbs, shake and use your hands to press crumbs into chicken until completely coated and most of the crumbs are no longer loose.
- Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large frying pan. Add chicken and toss occasionally so that all sides get browned. About 7 minutes in add garlic and toss. Try to toss this instead of stirring it, this will help the breadcrumbs stay attached to the chicken. Cook for about 3 more minutes (check largest piece to make sure it's done) and remove chicken from pan.
- If there is a ton of oil left in the pan pour most of it out, if not, add chicken broth, cream, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil then add cheese, bring back to a boil and cook, whisking occasionally for 5 minutes. Add basil and boil, whisking occasionally, for another 5 minutes.
- Pour over pasta and stir until combined. Garnish with basil.
Creamy Basil Chicken Pasta: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious and satisfying meals can feel like a monumental task. But let me tell you, this Creamy Basil Chicken Pasta recipe is a game-changer. It's quick, easy, and absolutely bursting with flavor – a true weeknight winner in my book. Forget complicated recipes and endless prep time; this dish comes together in under 30 minutes, leaving you with plenty of time to enjoy a family dinner without the stress. The rich, creamy sauce perfectly complements the tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave everyone wanting more.
I've always loved experimenting with different pasta recipes, searching for that perfect balance of ease and incredible taste. This one truly hits the mark. The key, I've found, is in the simplicity. The ingredients are readily available, the steps are straightforward, and the result is pure culinary magic. And don't worry if you're not a culinary expert – this recipe is foolproof, even for beginner cooks. The subtle hint of garlic, the fresh basil, and the creamy richness of the sauce blend together to create an unforgettable taste sensation. It's the type of meal that will leave you feeling satisfied without feeling overly full.
Beyond the Recipe: A Taste of Home
This Creamy Basil Chicken Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s a comfort food, a taste of home. It’s the kind of dish that reminds me of cozy evenings spent with family, laughing and sharing stories around the dinner table. The aroma alone is enough to transport me back to those cherished moments, filling my heart with warmth and contentment. The simplicity of the dish allows for easy adaptation, so I often customize it based on what's available in my pantry. Sometimes I add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little kick, other times I swap the fontina cheese for parmesan or a blend of Italian cheeses. The possibilities are endless!
Tips and Tricks for Pasta Perfection:
For the best results, I recommend using high-quality ingredients. Fresh basil is a must – the flavor is unparalleled. Don't be afraid to experiment with different types of pasta; gemelli or farfalle work beautifully. And remember, this recipe is forgiving. Don’t stress about precise measurements; adjust to your liking! I find that using high-quality olive oil adds depth of flavor, and a good pinch of salt enhances the overall taste.
Serving Suggestions:
This Creamy Basil Chicken Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but you can easily elevate it to the next level. Consider serving it with a side salad of fresh greens, tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. A crusty bread for dipping into the creamy sauce is always a welcome addition.
Making it Your Own:
One of the things I love about this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to customize it to your liking. Add vegetables like sauteed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor. If you're a spice lover, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with roasted vegetables or firm tofu. The possibilities are truly limitless! This dish is a canvas for your culinary creativity.
More Than Just a Meal: A Symbol of Connection
In the hustle and bustle of daily life, finding time for simple pleasures is crucial. This Creamy Basil Chicken Pasta is more than just a delicious meal; it’s a symbol of connection – connection to my family, to my heritage, and to the joy of creating something delicious and nourishing. It's a reminder to slow down, savor the moments, and appreciate the simple things in life. And that, my friends, is a feeling worth more than any gourmet meal.
