Introduction
This delightful pasta dish features tender chicken pieces, sun-dried tomatoes, and a hint of basil, all combined with fusilli pasta and topped with whipped ricotta. It offers a rich and comforting flavor that is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. With a combination of simple ingredients, this recipe is versatile and can be tailored to your taste.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Chicken:
– 500g (1 lb) chicken thigh fillets, cut into small bite-sized pieces (or breast or tenderloin)
– 1/2 teaspoon cooking salt/kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Pasta:
– 220g (7 oz) jar sun-dried tomato strips in oil, drained (reserve oil)
– 3 tablespoons oil from the sun-dried tomato jar
– 1 small onion, finely diced
– 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional)
– 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 400g (14 oz) canned crushed tomatoes
– 350g (12 oz) fusilli pasta (or penne, ziti, macaroni, small shells), uncooked
– 1 liter (4 cups) low-sodium chicken stock/broth (or water plus 1/2 teaspoon salt)
– 1/4 teaspoon cooking salt/kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup basil leaves, roughly chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Whipped Ricotta:
– 1/2 cup full-fat ricotta (Paesanella preferred)
– 4 tablespoons milk, preferably full-fat
– 1/4 cup finely grated parmesan (or a pinch of salt)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Total Time
45 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Enjoy your meal!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Whipped Ricotta
In a bowl, combine ricotta, milk, and parmesan. Whisk vigorously for 10–15 seconds until the mixture reaches the texture of softly whipped cream. Add more milk if needed to loosen.
Seal Chicken
Heat 3 tablespoons of the reserved sun-dried tomato oil in a large heavy-based pot over high heat. Add the chicken pieces, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and cook for 3 minutes until the outside is sealed but the inside remains raw. Remove the chicken with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Add the tomato paste and drained sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for an additional minute.
Deglaze
Pour in the white wine and let it simmer rapidly for 1–2 minutes, stirring regularly, until mostly evaporated.
Add Pasta and Chicken
Return the cooked chicken to the pot along with any accumulated juices. Add the uncooked pasta and stir to coat everything in the flavors.
Add Liquids and Seasonings
Pour in the chicken stock and canned crushed tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper.
Cook Pasta
Stir the mixture well, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-high to maintain a rapid simmer. Cook for 15 minutes without a lid, stirring every 2 minutes initially, then more frequently towards the end to prevent sticking. Lower the heat slightly if necessary.
Check Doneness
The pasta should be just cooked (al dente), and most of the liquid should be absorbed, leaving the mixture slightly soupy. Stir in the chopped basil.
Serve
Transfer the pasta into a serving bowl or divide among individual bowls. Dollop the whipped ricotta on top, allowing it to melt into the hot pasta. Garnish with additional basil leaves if desired.
Notes
Cooking the Chicken
Ensure the chicken is sealed on the outside but not fully cooked through, as it will continue to cook during the pasta preparation.
Adjusting Consistency
If the whipped ricotta is too thick, gradually add more milk to achieve the desired consistency.
Pasta Shape Options
Fusilli is recommended, but other small pasta shapes such as penne, ziti, macaroni, or small shells can also be used.
Simplicity in Seasoning
Keep an eye on the salt and pepper as the flavors will develop further from the sun-dried tomatoes and chicken stock. Adjust to taste before serving.
Garnishing Tips
Fresh basil can enhance flavor, so feel free to add extra for a fragrant touch when serving.
Cook techniques
Whipping Ricotta
Whipping ricotta involves combining ricotta cheese with milk and finely grated parmesan, then whisking vigorously until the texture resembles softly whipped cream. This technique enhances the creaminess and lightness of the ricotta, making it an ideal topping or side.
Sealing Chicken
To seal chicken, heat oil in a heavy-based pot and cook the pieces on high heat until the outside is browned. This technique helps to lock in moisture and flavor while preventing the chicken from becoming dry during further cooking.
Sautéing Aromatics
Sautéing aromatics such as onion and garlic means cooking them in a small amount of oil over medium heat until they become translucent and fragrant. This technique builds a flavorful base for the dish.
Deglazing
Deglazing involves adding liquid, such as white wine, to a hot pot to dissolve the browned bits of food stuck to the bottom. This technique captures flavorful residues and enriches the dish.
Cooking Pasta in the Sauce
Cooking pasta in the sauce allows the pasta to absorb flavors from the cooking liquid and other ingredients. This technique results in a more cohesive dish where the pasta becomes infused with the sauce’s taste.
Checking Doneness
Checking for pasta doneness is done by tasting it. The ideal texture is al dente, where the pasta is tender but still has a slight bite. This ensures that the pasta retains its shape and texture when served.
FAQ
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breast can be used in place of thighs. However, thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful.
What type of pasta can I use?
You can use fusilli, penne, ziti, macaroni, or small shells. Feel free to choose based on your preference.
Is it necessary to use white wine?
White wine is optional; it adds depth of flavor but can be omitted if desired.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used, although you may need to adjust the cooking time and liquid content.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To adjust the spice level, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or other spices during the cooking process.
Conclusion
This sun-dried tomato and chicken pasta dish is a delightful combination of flavors, with the creamy whipped ricotta adding a rich finish. The balance of the Mediterranean ingredients brings a burst of taste to each bite, making it a satisfying and comforting meal.
Chicken and Spinach Pasta
Swap out the basil for fresh spinach for a vibrant color and nutritional boost.
Pasta Primavera
Incorporate seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus to create a fresh, colorful dish.
Mediterranean Chicken Pasta
Add olives, capers, and feta cheese for a tangy Mediterranean twist.
Spicy Arrabbiata Chicken Pasta
Incorporate red pepper flakes into the sauce for a spicy kick.
Lemon Herb Pasta
Add lemon zest and juice for brightness along with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a refreshing flavor.
Cheesy Garlic Chicken Pasta
Mix in mozzarella or cheddar cheese along with the whipped ricotta for a cheesy, comforting experience.
Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Pasta
Blend sun-dried tomatoes with fresh basil and nuts for a quick pesto sauce to use in place of the crushed tomatoes.
One-Pan Chicken Alfredo
Use cream and parmesan instead of crushed tomatoes for a creamy Alfredo variation and let the pasta cook in the rich sauce.
