Grilled Chicken Pasta in Red Wine Cream Sauce (Dairy-Free)

A Weeknight Delight: Dairy-Free Grilled Chicken Pasta

As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and healthy dinner can feel like a Herculean task. Between school pick-ups, after-school activities, and the ever-present mountain of laundry, a simple, yet satisfying, meal is a lifesaver. This recipe for Grilled Chicken Pasta in a Red Wine Cream Sauce is my go-to when I need a quick, flavorful dinner that doesn't compromise on taste or nutrition. The best part? It's completely dairy-free, making it a perfect option for those with dietary restrictions or simply looking for a lighter alternative.

The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability. I often swap out the bow-tie pasta for whatever I have on hand – penne, rotini, even farfalle work wonderfully. The sauce is incredibly forgiving, too. If I'm short on time, I sometimes skip the caramelizing step with the onions, and it still turns out fantastic. And let’s be honest, sometimes a little shortcut is exactly what a busy weeknight calls for! The key is to use high-quality ingredients – fresh herbs make a world of difference. I always keep a small pot of fresh basil growing on my kitchen windowsill, and snipping a handful for the pasta is a little touch that elevates the whole dish.

This recipe is not just about efficiency; it's about creating a comforting and delicious meal for my family. The aroma of the garlic, herbs, and red wine fills the kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. It's a recipe that's as much about the experience as it is about the food itself. It's a testament to the fact that even amidst the chaos of daily life, we can still find time to create something delicious and special for ourselves and those we love. So, take a deep breath, put on some music, and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients You'll Need

This recipe comes together with pantry staples and fresh ingredients, making it perfect for a weeknight meal. The quantities listed are approximate; adjust according to your preference and the number of servings.

• Chicken: I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for ease of cooking and grilling.
• Pasta: Bow-tie pasta is my personal favorite, but any shape works well.
• Onion and Garlic: These aromatic base ingredients add depth and flavor to the sauce.
• Red Wine: A dry red wine, like Malbec, adds a rich complexity to the sauce. Don't be afraid to experiment with different varieties!
• Almond Milk: This is the secret ingredient for creating a creamy, dairy-free sauce.
• Tomatoes: Petite-diced tomatoes are convenient, but you can also use crushed tomatoes.
• Herbs: Fresh basil and Herbs de Provence add a vibrant and aromatic touch to the dish.
• Seasoning: Chicken seasoning, salt, and pepper are essential for enhancing the flavor of the chicken.

Tips for Success

To make this recipe even easier, I have a few tips that will help you create a truly delicious and impressive dish:

• Caramelize the Onions: Taking the time to properly caramelize the onions adds a wonderful sweetness and depth of flavor to the sauce. Be patient and let the onions cook slowly over medium heat.
• Don't Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Adjust the Creaminess: The amount of almond milk you'll need will depend on your preference. Add more if you want a thicker, creamier sauce.
• Fresh Herbs are Key: Fresh basil really elevates the flavor of this dish. If you can, use fresh herbs rather than dried ones.
• Make it Your Own: This recipe is a great starting point. Don't be afraid to experiment with other vegetables, herbs, or spices to create your own signature dish!

This Grilled Chicken Pasta in Red Wine Cream Sauce is more than just a recipe; it's a testament to the power of simple, fresh ingredients and a little bit of love. It's a reminder that even on the busiest of days, we can still take the time to create something nourishing, delicious, and deeply satisfying for ourselves and our families. Enjoy!

Step-by-step

• Sautee the onion and garlic in the olive oil on high heat.
• Add the sugar and continue sautéeing until the onion caramelizes.
• Add the drained can of tomatoes and let warm, then add the wine and reduce about five minutes.
• Add broth, almond milk, and pasta, and then reduce to a simmer about 20 minutes.
• Season and grill the chicken until done.
• Add the herbs de province to the pasta.
• Chop half the basil and also add to the pasta.
• Add more almond milk as needed to ensure creaminess, and then serve hot with the chicken.