If you have leftover roasted chicken, this creamy chicken pasta is a perfect way to turn it into a delicious meal that the whole family will love. Combining tender chicken, fresh herbs, and a rich, creamy sauce, this dish is both comforting and bursting with flavor. The combination of tomato paste, garlic, and spices creates a savory base, while the cherry tomatoes add a slight sweetness that perfectly balances the dish. The creamy texture from milk and cream, along with the subtle kick of red chili flakes, makes each bite irresistible. Whether you’re using up leftovers or starting fresh, this pasta is quick to make and guaranteed to satisfy. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite herbs or pasta. Enjoy this creamy, flavorful meal on a busy weeknight or as a special treat for loved ones.
Ingredients (Serves 4-6):
• 500g penne pasta (or any pasta of choice)
• 1 finely chopped onion
• 2 tsp finely chopped garlic
• 1 heaping tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, cut in half
• 1 cup milk
• ½ cup cream
• ½ tsp red chili flakes
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp fresh or dried thyme (optional)
• 1 tsp fresh or dried oregano (optional)
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 2-3 tsp sugar (to taste)
• 2 chicken fillets
Instructions:
- Cook 500g of penne pasta according to package instructions, then set aside.
- In a large pan, heat butter and olive oil. Add chopped onion, garlic, and chili flakes.
- Add the cherry tomatoes and mash them with the back of your spoon. Stir in the tomato paste, and then add salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cook on low heat for a few minutes.
- Add sugar to taste, and if needed, a small splash of water. Pour in the milk and cook with the lid off until the sauce thickens slightly. Add the cream and mix well.
- In a separate pan, pan-fry the sliced chicken fillets with the same spices used in the pasta sauce. Once cooked, chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Add the chicken to the sauce and combine it with the pasta. Garnish with fresh or dried thyme and oregano.
- Serve and enjoy!
Nutritional Insight & Dietary Notes:
This creamy chicken pasta is a rich and satisfying dish, offering a good source of protein from the chicken and a hearty serving of carbohydrates from the pasta. The cream and milk contribute healthy fats, while the tomatoes provide a boost of vitamins. However, due to the creamy base, this dish may be higher in calories, so those watching their fat or calorie intake might consider using lighter dairy options. For a gluten-free version, you can swap the pasta for gluten-free alternatives. The dish is versatile, making it easy to adjust to suit various dietary needs by adding or omitting certain ingredients like the herbs or using a dairy-free cream.
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