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Prepare the pasta: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water.
Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and cook for about 7-8 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened. Pour in the heavy cream, and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the parmesan cheese, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Continue to cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
Combine the pasta and chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta, stirring gently to combine everything. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Serve: Plate the pasta and chicken mixture. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of parmesan if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving: This dish is perfect when paired with a light green salad and crusty bread to soak up the extra sauce.
Storing: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
Freezing: You can freeze the cooked pasta and chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, defrost in the fridge overnight and reheat as needed.
Variants:
Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. You can also add a can of drained chickpeas for some added protein.
Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small chopped chili pepper to the sauce for an extra kick.
Seafood Option: Use shrimp or scallops instead of chicken for a delicious seafood twist.
FAQ:
Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes! This recipe works with any type of pasta you prefer. Penne, fettuccine, or even spaghetti are all great options.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free? Absolutely! You can substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream and use a dairy-free parmesan cheese.
How can I make this recipe spicier? To add more heat, you can include some red pepper flakes in the sauce or mix in finely chopped fresh chilies.
Is this recipe good for meal prep? Yes! It makes a great meal prep dish. Just store the leftovers in individual portions for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week.
Can I add more vegetables? Definitely! Feel free to include spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or peas for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.
Enjoy making this dish that has become a favorite in our home, and I’m sure it’ll win over your loved ones too!
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