Introduction
If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal that can be whipped up in no time, this creamy chicken and pasta dish is just the ticket. With tender chicken breasts and perfectly cooked fettuccine or tagliatelle, all enveloped in a rich and silky sauce, this recipe is sure to impress. Add a touch of garlic, nutmeg, and rocket to elevate the flavors, making it a delightful choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
150g dried fettuccine or tagliatelle
Olive oil
2 cloves of garlic
2 x 150g free-range skinless chicken breasts
15g unsalted butter
150ml single cream
40g Parmesan cheese, plus extra to serve
1 whole nutmeg, for grating
1 large handful of rocket
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 2
This simple yet indulgent dish combines the flavors of garlic, creamy sauce, and juicy chicken, topped with fresh rocket and Parmesan cheese. Enjoy it for a cozy meal at home or share it with loved ones for a memorable gathering.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the dried fettuccine or tagliatelle according to the packet instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and reserve a mug of the starchy water.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Place a non-stick frying pan on medium-high heat. When hot, add 1 teaspoon of olive oil. Then, squash the unpeeled garlic cloves and add them to the pan.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Season the free-range skinless chicken breasts generously with sea salt and black pepper. Once the garlic starts to sizzle, place the chicken into the pan. Cook the chicken, turning every minute for 4 minutes.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken Through
Add a small knob of unsalted butter to the pan. Reduce the heat slightly and cook the chicken for an additional minute on each side, or until fully cooked inside. Tilt the pan and spoon the melted fat over the chicken. After cooking, transfer the chicken to a plate to rest.
Step 5: Create the Sauce
In the same pan, add the remaining butter along with the single cream and a generous splash of reserved starchy water. Allow the mixture to simmer until it reduces to a loose silky sauce consistency.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Using tongs, transfer the drained pasta directly into the sauce. Off the heat, finely grate and stir in the 40g of Parmesan cheese, along with a fine grating of nutmeg. Season the sauce with sea salt and black pepper, stirring until it reaches a silky texture. If needed, loosen the sauce with a bit more cooking water.
Step 7: Serve the Dish
Transfer the pasta to two bowls. Slice the rested chicken at an angle into thin pieces and place it on top of the pasta. Add a large handful of rocket and finish with an extra grating of Parmesan and nutmeg, if desired.
Notes
Note 1: Choosing Pasta
Make sure to choose high-quality dried fettuccine or tagliatelle for the best texture.
Note 2: Chicken Cooking Tip
Ensure the chicken breasts are cooked through by checking that the juices run clear when pierced.
Note 3: Cream Sauce Consistency
Adjust the amount of starchy water based on the desired sauce thickness.
Note 4: Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with a light salad or a glass of white wine for a complete meal.
Note 5: Adding Flavor
You can experiment with adding different herbs or spices to the sauce for additional flavor.
Cook techniques
Cooking Pasta
Cook the dried fettuccine or tagliatelle according to the packet instructions, ensuring it reaches an al dente texture. Reserve a mug of the starchy cooking water before draining.
Searing Chicken
In a medium-high heat non-stick frying pan, add olive oil and unpeeled garlic cloves. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the pan once the garlic sizzles. Turn the chicken every minute for four minutes for even cooking.
Basting Chicken
Add a small knob of unsalted butter to the chicken pan. Reduce the heat slightly, cooking the chicken for an additional minute on each side while angling the pan and spooning the melted fat over the chicken to ensure a juicy result.
Making Sauce
In the same pan used for the chicken, add the remaining butter, single cream, and a splash of reserved pasta water. Simmer until it reduces to a silky sauce consistency.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
Transfer the drained pasta straight into the sauce using tongs. Off the heat, stir in finely grated Parmesan cheese and nutmeg. Adjust the sauce’s consistency with additional starchy water as needed.
Presentation
Slice the rested chicken at an angle into thin pieces and serve it atop the pasta. Garnish with fresh rocket and additional Parmesan and nutmeg if desired.
FAQ
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, though cooking times may vary.
Is it necessary to use single cream?
Single cream is preferred for its texture, but you can substitute it with heavy cream for a richer sauce.
How can I make the dish healthier?
Consider using less butter and cream, or substitute with Greek yogurt to reduce calories while maintaining creaminess.
What can I replace the chicken with?
You can use tofu, shrimp, or keep it vegetarian by adding more vegetables like mushrooms or spinach.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it when ready to combine with the pasta. Just be sure to adjust the consistency with some reserved pasta water.
Conclusion
This creamy chicken fettuccine dish is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, with tender chicken, rich sauce, and peppery rocket. The nutmeg and Parmesan add depth, making it a comforting and satisfying meal for any occasion.
Chicken Alfredo with Spinach
Replace rocket with fresh spinach for a vibrant twist on the classic Alfredo. The spinach adds a nutritional boost and a lovely color to the dish.
Mushroom and Chicken Fettuccine
Add sautéed mushrooms to the sauce for an earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy elements of the dish.
Sun-Dried Tomato and Chicken Pasta
Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy and slightly sweet element. Finish with fresh basil for an aromatic touch.
Chicken and Peas Fettuccine
Mix in sweet peas for a pop of color and natural sweetness, enhancing the overall dish’s texture and flavor.
Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta
Add fresh lemon juice and zest to the sauce for a bright, zesty flavor that complements the richness of the cream.
Herbed Chicken and Tomato Fettuccine
Season the chicken with fresh herbs like thyme or oregano, and add cherry tomatoes to the sauce for a fresh, Mediterranean vibe.
Spicy Chicken Fettuccine
Incorporate crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, balancing the creaminess of the sauce with a hint of heat.
