Creamy Chicken and Chorizo Pasta
Creamy Chicken and Chorizo Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that brightens any occasion. This dish combines tender chicken and savory chorizo in a rich, creamy tomato sauce that’s simply irresistible. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this quick recipe delivers bold flavors in just 30 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This creamy chicken and chorizo pasta can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of spicy chorizo, tender chicken, and a rich cream sauce creates a dish bursting with flavor.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for family dinners or dinner parties, this recipe adapts well to your favorite ingredients or dietary needs.
- One-Pan Meal: With everything cooked in one pan, clean-up is a breeze while you enjoy your delightful meal.
- Kid-Friendly: The creamy texture and savory taste make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
Tools and Preparation
To make creamy chicken and chorizo pasta, you will need some essential tools to streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Deep frying pan
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling the pasta effectively without sticking.
- Deep frying pan: Allows ample space to cook the chicken and chorizo evenly while mixing in the sauce.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring the ingredients without scratching your pans.
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 pasta according to the instructions on the package. Reserve a cup of water before draining.
Step 2: Sauté Chorizo
Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large, deep pan. Fry the chorizo for 1–2 minutes over medium-high heat until slightly crispy.
Step 3: Add Chicken
Add the diced chicken breast to the pan. Continue to cook for 4–5 minutes until the chicken is mostly cooked through.
Step 4: Incorporate Vegetables and Spices
Next, add the red onion and red pepper to the pan. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic, oregano, marjoram, chilli flakes, and tomato paste. Pour in chicken stock and let it bubble.
Step 5: Mix in Cream
Lower the heat and stir in double cream. Allow it to bubble again for 1–2 minutes before turning off the heat.
Step 6: Combine Pasta with Sauce
Transfer cooked pasta to the pan. Toss well with sauce. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if it looks too dry.
Step 7: Final Touches
Stir in fresh basil, parsley, and grated Parmesan. Season to taste and serve immediately with extra grated Parmesan on top if you like.
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 the dining experience. Here are some tasty serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
With Fresh Salad
- Garden Salad: A simple mix of lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers drizzled with a light vinaigrette.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese for a classic pairing.
Topped with Extra Herbs
- Basil Garnish: Adding fresh basil leaves on top brings a burst of flavor and color.
- Chopped Parsley: For an added touch of freshness, sprinkle chopped parsley over the pasta just before serving.
Accompanied by Garlic Bread
- Toasted Garlic Bread: Serve warm slices of garlic bread for dipping into the creamy sauce.
- Cheesy Garlic Bread: Add some melted cheese on top for a richer flavor that complements the pasta perfectly.
How to Perfect Creamy Chicken and Chorizo Pasta
Perfecting creamy chicken and chorizo pasta involves attention to detail during preparation. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh chicken and high-quality chorizo for the best flavors.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the pasta al dente so it holds up well when mixed with the sauce.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your sauce before serving; you may want to add more salt or pepper according to your preference.
- Use Reserved Pasta Water Wisely: If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water for the perfect consistency.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste or add additional ones like paprika for extra warmth.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh after cooking, as it maintains its creamy texture.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken and Chorizo Pasta
Pairing side dishes with creamy chicken and chorizo pasta can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Consider these options for a complete dining experience.
- Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted with garlic adds color and nutrition.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing side.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomato, basil, and olive oil offers a zesty appetizer or side.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide a crunchy texture that complements the richness of the pasta.
- Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables makes for an enticing starter.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making creamy chicken and chorizo pasta, a few common missteps can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here’s how to avoid them.
- Skipping the Pasta Water: Not reserving pasta water can result in a dry dish. This starchy water helps bind the sauce to the pasta and adds creaminess.
- Underestimating Cooking Time: Rushing the cooking process can leave chicken undercooked or pasta too firm. Always follow timing guidelines for optimal texture.
- Overcooking the Chorizo: Cooking chorizo too long can make it tough. Sauté just until crispy for the best flavor and texture.
- Neglecting Seasoning: Forgetting to taste for seasoning can lead to bland pasta. Adjust salt and pepper as needed to enhance flavors effectively.
- Using Low-Quality Cream: Choosing low-fat cream may compromise creaminess. Opt for double cream for a rich, velvety sauce.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store creamy chicken and chorizo pasta in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Creamy Chicken and Chorizo Pasta
- Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers.
- The dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Creamy Chicken and Chorizo Pasta
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Put the pasta in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and reheat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pan. Add a splash of water or cream to help loosen it up as it warms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about creamy chicken and chorizo pasta that might help you out.
Can I substitute other types of meat?
Yes, you can use turkey or beef instead of chicken. Just ensure they are cooked thoroughly.
What if I don’t have chorizo?
You can replace chorizo with any spicy sausage or even omit it for a vegetarian version by adding more vegetables.
How do I make this dish healthier?
To make creamy chicken and chorizo pasta healthier, use whole wheat pasta and reduce the amount of cream.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs provide a vibrant flavor boost. You could use thyme or oregano instead of dried versions.
How long does this recipe take?
This creamy chicken and chorizo pasta takes about 30 minutes from start to finish!
Final Thoughts
Creamy chicken and chorizo pasta is not just delicious; it’s also versatile! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition. Try it out today and customize it according to your taste preferences!
Creamy Chicken and Chorizo Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Chicken and Chorizo Pasta is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for any occasion. This delightful dish features tender chicken and spicy chorizo enveloped in a rich, creamy tomato sauce that delivers an explosion of flavor in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 300 g rigatoni (or another short pasta)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 170 g sliced chorizo
- 350 g diced chicken breast
- 1 small red onion (diced)
- 1 small red pepper (diced)
- 3 minced garlic cloves
- 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
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- 30 g grated Parmesan
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; reserve a cup of water before draining.
- In a large pan, heat olive oil and sauté chorizo until crispy.
- Add diced chicken and cook until mostly done.
- Stir in onion, red pepper, garlic, oregano, marjoram, chili flakes, and tomato paste; add chicken stock and simmer.
- Mix in double cream and bubble for another minute.
- Combine cooked pasta with the sauce; add reserved water if needed.
- Finish with fresh herbs and Parmesan before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
