Creamy Chicken and Chorizo Pasta
Creamy Chicken and Chorizo Pasta is a delightful dish that can elevate any meal. This recipe combines the rich flavors of chorizo and tender chicken in a creamy, savory sauce that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Whether you’re serving it for a family gathering or a cozy night in, this pasta dish is sure to impress with its bold taste and quick preparation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of chorizo, chicken, and spices creates a rich sauce that tantalizes the taste buds.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand, allowing flexibility in your cooking.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With its creamy texture and hearty components, this dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends.
- One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pan, saving you time on both cooking and cleaning.
Tools and Preparation
Before starting your creamy chicken and chorizo pasta, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment will make the cooking process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large deep pan
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large deep pan: Allows you to cook all ingredients together while providing enough space for stirring without spilling.
- Pot for boiling pasta: Essential for preparing the pasta perfectly al dente before mixing it with the sauce.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
Ingredients
For this delicious creamy chicken and chorizo pasta, gather the following ingredients:
For the Pasta
- 300 g rigatoni (or another type of short pasta)
For the Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 170 g chorizo (sliced)
- 350 g chicken breast (diced)
- 1 small red onion (finely diced)
- 1 small red pepper (diced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried marjoram
- 1/4 tsp red chilli flakes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 200 ml chicken stock
- 200 ml double cream
For Garnish
- 6 leaves fresh basil (roughly torn)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
- 30 g grated Parmesan
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Chorizo Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a pot of water to boil, salt it generously, and cook the rigatoni according to package instructions. Remember to reserve a cup of water before draining.
Step 2: Sauté the Chorizo
In a large deep pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Fry the sliced chorizo for 1–2 minutes until slightly crispy.
Step 3: Add Chicken
Add the diced chicken breast to the pan. Cook for about 4–5 minutes until it’s mostly cooked through.
Step 4: Incorporate Vegetables
Stir in the finely diced red onion and diced red pepper. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until softened. Next, add minced garlic along with dried oregano, marjoram, chilli flakes, and tomato paste. Pour in the chicken stock and let it bubble.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce
Lower the heat before stirring in double cream. Allow it to bubble again for 1–2 minutes before turning off the heat.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Transfer the drained pasta into the pan with your creamy sauce. Toss well to coat all pieces evenly, adding some reserved pasta water if needed.
Step 7: Finish with Fresh Herbs
Mix in freshly torn basil leaves, chopped parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on top if desired.
Enjoy your flavorful creamy chicken and chorizo pasta!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Chorizo Pasta
Creamy chicken and chorizo pasta is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your meal.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Basil and Parsley: Sprinkle additional chopped fresh basil or parsley on top for a burst of freshness.
- Chilli Flakes: Add a pinch of extra red chilli flakes for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
Pair with Bread
- Garlic Bread: Serve slices of warm garlic bread on the side for a perfect dipping companion.
- Crusty Baguette: A crusty baguette complements the creamy sauce wonderfully, allowing you to soak up every last bit.
Serve with a Salad
- Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the pasta.
- Caesar Salad: The crunchiness of romaine lettuce and croutons in Caesar salad pairs nicely with creamy flavors.
Add Extra Cheese
- Grated Parmesan: Offer extra grated Parmesan at the table for guests who want more cheesy goodness.
- Feta Crumbles: Consider adding feta cheese for a tangy twist that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Wine Pairing
- White Wine: A chilled glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, enhances the flavors of this dish.
- Sparkling Water: For a non-alcoholic option, serve sparkling water with lemon wedges for refreshment.
How to Perfect Creamy Chicken and Chorizo Pasta
To make your creamy chicken and chorizo pasta even better, consider these helpful tips. They’ll ensure that every bite is delicious!
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Aim for al dente pasta to maintain texture that holds up well in the creamy sauce.
- Use High-Quality Chorizo: Select good quality chorizo for more flavor; it makes a significant difference in taste.
- Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before serving; adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for balanced flavors.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Keep some reserved pasta water handy; it helps adjust the sauce’s consistency if it becomes too thick.
- Incorporate Vegetables: Feel free to add more veggies like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
- Let It Rest Before Serving: Allow the dish to rest for a couple of minutes after cooking; this helps all flavors meld together beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken and Chorizo Pasta
Complementing your creamy chicken and chorizo pasta with the right sides can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent side dish ideas:
- Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted with garlic make a light and flavorful side.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition while being simple to prepare.
- Caprese Salad: This salad made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offers freshness alongside your hearty dish.
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Oven-roasted Brussels sprouts tossed in balsamic glaze provide a delicious crunch that pairs well.
- Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: Quinoa mixed with cucumber, tomato, olives, and feta offers protein-packed goodness that’s refreshing.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized bring sweetness that balances out creaminess perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making creamy chicken and chorizo pasta, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure a delicious result.
- Using low-quality chorizo: Opt for a good quality chorizo for maximum flavor. Cheaper options may not deliver the rich, smoky taste you desire.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cook the chicken just until it is no longer pink. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough.
- Neglecting to reserve pasta water: Always save some pasta water before draining. This starchy water can be added to the sauce to enhance creaminess.
- Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh basil and parsley add brightness to the dish. Don’t skip them; they elevate the flavors significantly.
- Not seasoning properly: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper throughout cooking to ensure well-seasoned pasta.
- Allowing the sauce to boil too aggressively: A gentle simmer is best for sauces with cream. Boiling can cause the cream to separate and lose its velvety texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the pasta to cool before sealing it in the container.
Freezing Creamy Chicken and Chorizo Pasta
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- For best results, freeze without fresh herbs and cheese. Add them when reheating.
Reheating Creamy Chicken and Chorizo Pasta
- Oven: Preheat to 180°C (350°F). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in short intervals, stirring between each until heated evenly.
- Stovetop: Heat gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about creamy chicken and chorizo pasta.
What can I serve with Creamy Chicken and Chorizo Pasta?
A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this dish, balancing its richness.
Can I make Creamy Chicken and Chorizo Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator or freezer as noted above.
Is there a vegetarian version of Creamy Chicken and Chorizo Pasta?
Absolutely! Substitute chicken with mushrooms or chickpeas, and use plant-based chorizo for a delightful vegetarian version.
How can I customize my Creamy Chicken and Chorizo Pasta?
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition. You can also adjust spices based on your heat preference.
Final Thoughts
Creamy chicken and chorizo pasta is not just a meal; it’s a comforting dish that brings joy at any time of day. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this recipe is perfect for quick dinners or special occasions. Customize it with your favorite veggies or herbs for an even more delightful experience!
Creamy Chicken and Chorizo Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x
Description
Creamy Chicken and Chorizo Pasta is a quick and satisfying meal that combines the bold flavors of spicy chorizo and tender chicken in a luscious cream sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, this one-pan dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. With its rich taste and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to impress anyone at the dinner table. Serve it garnished with fresh herbs and your favorite cheese for an extra touch of flavor.
Ingredients
- 300g rigatoni (or any short pasta)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 170g chorizo (sliced)
- 350g chicken breast (diced)
- 1 small red onion (finely diced)
- 1 small red pepper (diced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 200ml chicken stock
- 200ml double cream
- Fresh basil, parsley, and grated Parmesan for garnish
Instructions
- Boil salted water in a pot and cook the rigatoni according to package instructions; reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large deep pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Fry chorizo slices for 1–2 minutes until slightly crispy.
- Add diced chicken to the pan and cook for about 4–5 minutes until mostly cooked through.
- Stir in red onion and red pepper; cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic, oregano, marjoram, chilli flakes, and tomato paste, followed by chicken stock.
- Reduce heat and stir in double cream; allow to bubble gently for 1–2 minutes.
- Combine drained pasta into the sauce, mixing well to coat evenly; add reserved pasta water if needed.
- Finish with fresh basil, parsley, and grated Parmesan.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (250g)
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
