Italian Chicken Pasta is a delicious, creamy dish that has won the hearts of many with its rich flavors and straightforward preparation. This dish combines tender chicken cutlets, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and a luscious sauce made with white wine, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. The recipe is versatile and can be adapted with various ingredients to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
5 boneless, skinless chicken breast cutlets
½ cup flour
1 teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons oil
For the Pasta:
12 ounces spaghetti noodles
For the Sauce:
4 tablespoons butter
1 onion, chopped
4 teaspoons minced garlic
2 small tomatoes, diced
1 tablespoon flour
1 cup white cooking wine
1 cup heavy whipping cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
Prepare the Pasta:
Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Chicken:
In a Ziploc bag, mix flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken cutlets, seal the bag, and shake to coat the chicken evenly.
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken cutlets and sauté until they are browned on both sides and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt the butter.
Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened.
Add the minced garlic and diced tomatoes, and cook for about 30 seconds.
Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir well.
Pour in the white cooking wine and simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.
Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and red pepper flakes.
Gradually whisk in the heavy whipping cream and Parmesan cheese. Continue to cook until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
Combine and Serve:
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat with the sauce.
Return the chicken cutlets to the skillet, nestling them into the pasta and sauce.
Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. Here are some variations and substitutions you can consider:
Vegetable Additions:
Spinach: Add fresh spinach to the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking for a burst of color and nutrients.
Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions for an earthy flavor.
Bell Peppers: Add diced bell peppers for extra crunch and sweetness.
Protein Alternatives:
Shrimp: Substitute chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist. Sauté the shrimp until pink and opaque, then proceed with the sauce.
Tofu: For a vegetarian option, use firm tofu. Press and cube the tofu, then coat and cook it as you would the chicken.
Sauce Variations:
Tomato-based Sauce: Swap the white wine and heavy cream for a can of crushed tomatoes for a lighter, tomato-based sauce.
Pesto: Stir in a few tablespoons of pesto for a vibrant and herbaceous flavor.
Pasta Alternatives:
Whole Wheat Pasta: For a healthier option, use whole wheat spaghetti.
Gluten-free Pasta: If you need a gluten-free version, choose your favorite gluten-free pasta.
Dairy-free Version:
Use coconut milk or almond milk in place of heavy whipping cream, and opt for a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.
Herb Variations:
Fresh Herbs: Use fresh basil, oregano, or parsley for a burst of fresh flavor.
Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for a spicier dish.
Cooking Tips
Chicken Thickness: Ensure your chicken cutlets are of even thickness to cook uniformly. You can pound them to achieve this.
Wine Substitute: If you prefer not to use wine, substitute with chicken broth or vegetable broth.
Cream Consistency: Adjust the amount of heavy whipping cream to control the sauce’s thickness. More cream will yield a richer, creamier sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Italian Chicken Pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad and garlic bread. A glass of white wine complements the dish well, enhancing the flavors of the sauce. For a complete meal, consider adding a side of roasted vegetables or a light antipasto platter.
This recipe not only promises a delicious meal but also offers the flexibility to cater to various tastes and dietary needs. Whether you stick to the classic preparation or try out some of the variations, Italian Chicken Pasta is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the process of making it, and most importantly, enjoy every bite!