Italian Chicken Pasta Recipe

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Ingredients

  • Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless; cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
  • Pasta: Penne, rigatoni, or any preferred type of pasta.
  • Olive Oil: For sautéing the chicken and vegetables.
  • Garlic: Minced, for aromatic flavor.
  • Onion: Chopped, for a savory base.
  • Bell Peppers: Sliced or chopped, for added color and sweetness.
  • Canned Tomatoes: Diced or crushed, for the sauce.
  • Tomato Paste: Adds depth and richness to the sauce.
  • Chicken Broth: For deglazing and adding liquid to the sauce.
  • Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated, for a finishing touch.
  • Salt and Pepper: To taste.
  • Fresh Basil: Optional, for garnish and extra flavor.

Kitchen Equipment

  • Large Pot: For boiling the pasta.
  • Large Skillet: For cooking the chicken and sauce.
  • Wooden Spoon: For stirring.
  • Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping vegetables and chicken.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
  • Colander: For draining the pasta.

Recipe Directions

  1. Cook the Pasta:
    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
    • Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Chicken:
    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
    • Add the diced chicken pieces to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
    • Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Make the Sauce:
    • In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed and sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
    • Add the sliced bell peppers and cook for another 3 minutes until they start to soften.
    • Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
    • Pour in the canned tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
  4. Combine Everything:
    • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the Italian seasoning. Stir to combine.
    • Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
    • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
  5. Finish and Serve:
    • Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
    • Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
    • Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
  6. Enjoy:
    • Serve the Italian Chicken Pasta hot, with extra Parmesan cheese on the side if desired.

Notes and Tips

  • Pasta Cooking: Make sure to cook the pasta until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the hot sauce.
  • Chicken Variations: You can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a more flavorful option. Just make sure to cook them thoroughly.
  • Vegetable Add-Ins: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to the dish for extra nutrition and flavor.
  • Make-Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Food and Drink Pairings

Italian Chicken Pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a well-rounded meal. For drinks, a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Pinot Noir, complements the rich flavors of the dish. Alternatively, a sparkling water with a slice of lemon offers a refreshing contrast.

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