Chicken and tomato tagliatelle
Delicious Recipe for Chicken Tagliatelle with Tomato Sauce
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 2
Today, I invite you to discover a simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the delicate taste of chicken breast with the fresh flavors of tomatoes, all served on a bed of tagliatelle. This is an excellent choice for a quick yet impressive dinner, perfect for those moments when you want to shine in front of family or friends.
A Brief Story About the Recipe
Tagliatelle is a type of pasta with ancient origins, appreciated for its long, flat texture that perfectly holds sauces. The combination of chicken and tomatoes is classic, with deep roots in Mediterranean cuisine, where fresh ingredients are highly valued. This chicken tagliatelle with tomato sauce will surely add a touch of refinement to any meal.
Ingredients Needed
- 200 g whole wheat tagliatelle (for 2 servings)
- 1 boneless chicken breast (approximately 300 g)
- 1 kg well-ripened tomatoes (preferably Roma or cherry)
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried marjoram
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Steps for Preparation
1. Preparing the Ingredients
Start by cutting the chicken breast into small cubes, about 2 cm. This will ensure even and quick cooking. Make sure you have all the ingredients ready at hand for efficient work.
2. Cooking the Chicken
In a large skillet, add the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chicken cubes and season them with thyme, oregano, marjoram, salt, and pepper. Sauté the chicken for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until it turns golden and is cooked through.
3. Preparing the Tomato Sauce
Meanwhile, wash the tomatoes and cut them into cubes. There’s no need to peel them; the skin adds extra nutrients and texture. Place the tomatoes in a blender and blend until you achieve a smooth puree. If you prefer a chunkier sauce, you can blend them only partially. Add the dried basil to the tomato puree.
4. Combining the Ingredients
Once the chicken is cooked, pour the tomato sauce over the meat. Mix well and let the sauce simmer on low heat for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Add the crushed garlic in the last 5 minutes of cooking to preserve its fresh aroma.
5. Boiling the Pasta
In another pot, bring water to a boil and add a pinch of salt. Cook the tagliatelle according to the package instructions (about 8 minutes for whole wheat pasta). After boiling, drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process.
6. Serving
Divide the tagliatelle into deep plates, then add the chicken sauce in the center. You can garnish with a few fresh basil leaves or a fine grating of Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Practical Tips
- Choosing Tomatoes: Opt for seasonal tomatoes, as they have a more intense flavor. Cherry tomatoes can add a touch of sweetness.
- Pasta Variations: Feel free to experiment with other types of pasta, such as fettuccine or spaghetti, depending on your preferences.
- Enriching the Sauce: Add vegetables like bell peppers or diced zucchini to make the sauce heartier and more nutrient-rich.
- Storing the Sauce: If you have leftover sauce, it can be stored in the fridge and used later for other dishes or pasta.
Nutritional Benefits
This recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken and contains a significant amount of vitamins and antioxidants from the tomatoes. Whole wheat pasta provides fiber, essential for healthy digestion. It’s a balanced meal that offers energy and satisfies the tastes of your loved ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, you can substitute the whole wheat tagliatelle with gluten-free pasta, depending on your preferences.
2. How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add a pinch of dried chili pepper or chili sauce during cooking for an extra kick.
3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine or a mint lemonade would be excellent choices to complement the flavors of this dish.
4. How can I adapt the recipe for vegans?
You can replace the chicken breast with tofu or mushrooms, and the sauce will still be delicious.
Serving Suggestion
For a truly special meal, serve this dish alongside a green salad with lemon and olive oil dressing, and a glass of white wine. Finish the evening with a light dessert, such as fruit sorbet, to balance the flavors.
So, enjoy this chicken tagliatelle with tomato sauce recipe, which not only cooks quickly but also brings a touch of joy to every meal! Bon appétit!
Ingredients: Tagliatelle for 2 servings, one boneless chicken breast, 1 kg of well-ripened tomatoes, garlic, thyme, oregano, marjoram, basil, pepper
Tags: tagliatelle paste chicken tomato sauce