Valentines Day Pasta with Chicken
A delicious pasta dish featuring chicken, creamy sauce, and fresh vegetables, perfect for a romantic dinner.
Ingrédients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz Pasta (preferably fettuccine or spaghetti)
- 2 pieces Chicken Breast, boneless and skinless
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Use high-quality olive oil for richer flavor.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream Can be substituted with skim milk for a lighter option.
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated Nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free option.
- 1 cup Assorted Vegetables (bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or spinach) Incorporate seasonal vegetables for freshness.
- 1 handful Fresh Basil, chopped Can substitute with dried basil if fresh is unavailable.
- to taste Salt and Pepper Season to your preference.
- 1 cup Red Wine (optional) For cooking or pairing.
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by gathering all your ingredients. Wash and chop the vegetables and mince the garlic. Ensure everything is measured out to make cooking smoother.
Cooking Pasta
- Boil a pot of water, add a pinch of salt, and toss in the pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, approximately 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Cooking Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let rest.
Sautéing Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add a touch more olive oil if needed and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, then add the assorted vegetables. Cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
Making the Sauce
- Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the vegetables. Stir while bringing it to a gentle simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and creamy.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta into the skillet and toss well to combine, ensuring the pasta is coated with the sauce. If you prefer a thinner sauce, feel free to add some pasta water.
Plating
- Slice the chicken breasts into strips and serve the creamy pasta on plates. Top with sliced chicken and sprinkle fresh basil over the dish.
Notes
To store leftovers, keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For optimal texture, freeze pasta and sauce separately. When reheating, add a splash of water or cream to restore creaminess.