Description
This comforting dish combines seared chicken, creamy tomato sauce, and pasta for a perfect cozy meal.
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite)
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp butter
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped for garnish
- Optional crunchy topping: 1/2 cup breadcrumbs mixed with 2 tbsp melted butter and 2 tbsp grated Parmesan
Instructions
- Prep and boil pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente according to package directions. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Sear the chicken: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook in batches until golden and cooked through, about 4–5 minutes per side for bite-sized pieces. Remove to a plate.
- Build the sauce: Reduce heat to medium and add remaining olive oil and butter. Sauté onion until soft, 4–5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits.
- Simmer and finish: Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer gently for 5–7 minutes to thicken. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Combine: Return chicken to the skillet and add drained pasta. Toss well, adding reserved pasta water a few tablespoons at a time if you want a looser sauce.
- Optional bake: If you love a bubbly topping, transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top, and broil for 2–4 minutes until golden.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped basil or parsley and extra Parmesan. Enjoy hot.
Notes
Pat the chicken dry before searing for a beautiful golden crust. Use full-fat cream for the best sauce. Stir in reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop and Broiling
- Cuisine: Italian