Enjoy the flavors of Creamy Chicken Tagliatelle, a decadent pasta dish combining succulent chicken, rich sauce, and cheesy delight in every bite. Perfect for a comforting meal.
Creamy Chicken Tagliatelle Recipe
Make the luscious Creamy Chicken Tagliatelle, where perfectly seared chicken meets a velvety sauce and tender pasta. This dish promises a delightful melding of rich, cheesy flavors with the comforting textures of classic tagliatelle, creating a memorable meal for any pasta enthusiast.
Ingredients:
- Tagliatelle Pasta: Serves as the base, known for its sturdy yet delicate texture.
- Chicken Breast: The primary source of protein, providing a hearty element to the dish.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Butter: Used for cooking the chicken and building flavors.
- Garlic and Onion: Aromatic ingredients which add essential flavors to the dish.
- Half and Half: This creamy element binds everything together for a smooth sauce.
- Freshly Grated Parmesan: Adds a rich and tangy taste that elevates the entire dish.
Instructions:
- Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil.
- Cook the tagliatelle in the boiling water according to package directions, minus 2 minutes for a slightly al dente texture. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water.
- While the pasta is cooking, season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Cook the chicken in a large pan with some extra virgin olive oil until it is nicely browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken, keep it warm, and set it aside.
- In the same pan, sauté the garlic and onion for about 3-4 minutes, until aromatic and tender.
- Pour in the half and half along with the reserved pasta water. Scrape any garlic or onion that might be stuck to the bottom of the pan.
- Let the mixture simmer for about 2 minutes, then add the parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the tagliatelle to the pan, tossing it in the sauce. Continue to cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Decide whether to slice the cooked chicken and stir it into the pasta, or to serve it on top of the pasta.
- Serve the tagliatelle and chicken topped with more parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Tips and Variations:
- For a lighter sauce, you can substitute some of the half and half with chicken broth.
- For a richer sauce, use heavy cream instead of half and half.
- Add mushrooms, such as button or cremini, for an earthy flavor.
- Incorporate vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or asparagus for added nutrition.
- Swap out the chicken for shrimp or prawns if preferred.
- Introduce bacon for a smoky taste.
Pair this dish with a side salad to complete your meal and enjoy a filling, creamy pasta dinner!
