Discover the essence of Italian cuisine with this cherished family recipe passed down through generations. Straight from the heart of Italy, this Chicken Pasta dish embodies the rich flavors and comforting aromas of traditional Italian cooking. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe will transport you to the rustic kitchens of Italy with every bite. Let’s dive into the culinary journey of creating this soul-warming dish!
Ingredients:
- 3 chicken fillets
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- 200g pasta
- 3 eggs
- Basil
- 100g cheese (grated)
- 50g butter
- Dill (chopped)
- 2 cucumbers (sliced)
- 1 yellow pepper (sliced)
- 200g cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1/2 iceberg lettuce (chopped)
- 200g feta cheese (cubed)
- Pepper
Instructions:
Cooking the Chicken:
- Preparation: Cut the chicken fillets into bite-sized pieces. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Seasoning: Add the chicken pieces to the pan and season with salt, paprika, and garlic powder. Cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
Cooking the Pasta:
- Boiling Water: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Season with salt and a splash of vegetable oil to prevent the pasta from sticking.
- Cooking Pasta: Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, usually 7-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Preparing the Egg Mixture:
- Mixing: In a bowl, crack the eggs and season with salt, paprika, garlic powder, and basil. Whisk until well combined.
- Combining with Pasta: Place the cooked pasta in a separate bowl and pour the egg mixture over it. Add grated cheese (reserving some for later) and mix until the pasta is evenly coated.
Assembling the Dish:
- Frying with Chicken: In the same pan used for cooking the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add the pasta mixture and fried chicken pieces. Fry covered for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Adding Remaining Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked and the flavors are melded, sprinkle the remaining grated cheese over the top. Cover and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Preparing the Salad:
- Mixing Vegetables: In a large salad bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, yellow pepper, cherry tomatoes, iceberg lettuce, and cubed feta cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Toss until well combined.
Serving:
- Plating: Serve the delectable Chicken Pasta alongside the fresh salad. Garnish the pasta with chopped dill for an extra burst of flavor.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Italian Herb Blend: Enhance the flavor profile of the dish by adding an Italian herb blend or fresh herbs such as parsley, oregano, or thyme.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add more vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
- Spice Level: Adjust the level of paprika and garlic powder according to your preference for a milder or spicier taste.
Keto and Low-Carb Version:
To create a keto and low-carb version of this recipe, substitute the pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles. Replace the sugar-containing ingredients with keto-friendly alternatives such as erythritol or stevia.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
- Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape such as penne, spaghetti, or fusilli for this recipe.
- What can I substitute for feta cheese? Ricotta, Parmesan, or goat cheese are suitable alternatives to feta cheese if preferred.
- How can I make this dish more spicy? Increase the amount of paprika or add a pinch of chili flakes for an extra kick of heat.
In conclusion, this Authentic Italian Chicken Pasta recipe is a celebration of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds and warm your soul. With its tender chicken, creamy pasta, and vibrant salad, this dish offers a symphony of Italian-inspired goodness that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed with family or shared with friends, this recipe invites you to savor the essence of Italy with every delicious bite. Buon appetito!
