This Creamy Tomato Pasta with Chicken, dressed in a rich and velvety pink sauce, combines the tangy zest of tomato pesto with the smooth decadence of fresh cream, resulting in a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. The perfectly cooked pasta, intertwined with succulent pieces of chicken, offers a delightful texture contrast, while the infusion of garlic, chili, and herbs brings a depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
Whether it’s a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress. Its balance of flavors and elegant presentation make it a standout recipe that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Garnished with a sprinkle of parsley and chili flakes, it’s a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. This pasta dish not only satisfies those comfort food cravings but does so with a gourmet twist that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 300g chicken, cubed
- Seasoning of choice (e.g., garlic salt, black pepper, Portuguese seasoning)
- 200g pasta, cooked (reserve ½ cup pasta water)
- 3 tbsp sun-dried tomato pesto or pasta sauce
- 300ml fresh cream
- 2 tbsp chopped onion
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, crushed
- 1 red chili, chopped
- ½ tsp garlic salt (or to taste) for seasoning the sauce
- 3-4 tbsp grated cheese (e.g., cheddar)
- Optional: parsley and chili flakes for garnish
Directions:
- Marinate the Chicken: Season the chicken cubes with garlic salt, black pepper, and Portuguese seasoning. Set aside.
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
- Sauté the Onion: In a pan over medium-high heat, add olive oil, butter, and chopped onion. Sauté until the onion softens.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the pan and fry until cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan and do not overcook the chicken.
- Add Garlic and Chili: Stir in the crushed garlic and chopped red chili, and fry for 30 seconds.
- Combine with Sauce: Stir in 2 tbsp of sun-dried tomato pesto or pasta sauce, followed by the fresh cream. Mix well.
- Add Pasta and Water: Add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water to the pan. Allow the sauce to simmer and thicken slightly.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the grated cheese and the remaining pasta sauce. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Garnish (Optional): Top with parsley and chili flakes for added flavor and presentation.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 590 kcal | Servings: 4 servings