Paste love

Pasta Amore – Chicken and Cream Sauce Spaghetti Recipe

When you think of a comforting and flavorful meal, chicken spaghetti with cream sauce undoubtedly comes to mind. This recipe, affectionately named "Pasta Amore," combines the fresh flavors of herbs, the richness of chicken, and the sweetness of tomato sauce, all in a dish that will bring a smile to your loved ones' faces. Get ready to be carried away by the deliciousness of this dish!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 300g pasta (spaghetti or your preferred type)
- 250g chicken breast, boiled and diced
- 100g sliced ham, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 1 bay leaf
- Zest from 1 small lemon (grated)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 4 ripe tomatoes
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Cook the pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. When the water is boiling, add salt and then the pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8-12 minutes. Once cooked, drain and set aside. Save a little pasta water in case the sauce needs thinning.

2. Prepare the sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until golden and tender, about 3-4 minutes. This is the flavorful base of your sauce!

3. Add the chicken: In the skillet, add the boiled chicken pieces and chopped ham. Mix well to combine the flavors and cook until the chicken is lightly browned, about 5 minutes.

4. Deglaze with wine: Pour the white wine into the skillet, then add the lemon zest, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Allow the sauce to simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, until the liquid reduces and the flavors concentrate.

5. Prepare the tomatoes: In a pot of boiling water, let the tomatoes sit for 3 minutes, making sure to cut a cross at the base of the stem. Drain and place them under cold running water to easily peel them. Peel the tomatoes, remove the seeds, and chop them finely.

6. Finish the sauce: Add the chopped tomatoes to the skillet, along with the sour cream. Mix everything well and let the sauce simmer for another 5 minutes until it thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Combine the pasta: In the meat sauce, add the cooked pasta, parsley, basil, and oregano. Mix well so that the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a bit of pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.

8. Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat, serve the pasta hot, topped with grated Parmesan. A garnish of fresh basil leaves will add a pop of color and flavor!

Serving suggestions: These delicious spaghetti pair perfectly with a fresh green salad and a glass of dry white wine. I recommend trying a tomato and basil bruschetta as an appetizer to complete this Italian meal.

Possible variations: You can adapt the recipe by adding vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers for extra color and nutrients. Also, if you prefer a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with mushrooms or tofu.

Nutritional benefits: This pasta recipe contains protein from chicken and sour cream, carbohydrates from pasta, as well as antioxidants from tomatoes. Additionally, fresh herbs bring not only flavor but also health benefits.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use whole grain pasta? Yes, whole grain pasta is an excellent choice for a healthier, fiber-rich option.

2. What type of white wine should I use? Choose a dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which will add a pleasant flavor to the sauce.

3. How can I store leftovers? Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a little water to prevent drying out.

4. Can I freeze the pasta? It is better to freeze the sauce separately from the pasta, as the pasta can become mushy and lose its texture. The sauce can be kept in the freezer for 2-3 months.

This chicken and cream sauce spaghetti recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. Let yourself be carried away by its flavors and enjoy every bite! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: Ingredients (4 servings): 300g pasta Half chicken breast 100g chopped ham 2 cloves chopped garlic 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 cup dry white wine 1 bay leaf Zest of a small lemon 1 teaspoon thyme and rosemary 4 tomatoes 1 cup sour cream 1 cup grated parmesan 1 tablespoon chopped parsley, basil, oregano Salt, pepper