Creamy Chicken and Sausage Pasta: A Family Favorite
Discover the ultimate comfort food with this creamy chicken and sausage pasta recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines the savory flavors of Italian sausage and tender chicken, all smothered in a light, creamy sauce. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe promises to delight your taste buds and become a regular in your meal rotation.
Ingredients and Quantities
To whip up this delicious pasta, you’ll need:
- Pasta: 10.5 oz (300 g)
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Italian Sausage: ½ lb (225 g)
- Chicken Breast: 1 lb (450 g), diced
- Shallot: 1 large, diced
- Red Bell Pepper: 1 medium, sliced
- Garlic Cloves: 2 large, finely chopped
- Fresh Thyme: 1 tablespoon
- Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons
- Chicken Stock: 1 cup (250 ml)
- Light Cream Cheese: 1 cup (180 g)
- Parmesan: ⅓ cup (30 g), grated
- Fresh Parsley: A handful
- Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: to taste
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Begin by boiling your pasta in a large pot of salted water until al dente. Remember to reserve 1-2 cups of pasta water before draining.
- In a large, deep pan, heat the olive oil and brown the Italian sausage over medium heat. Once cooked, set aside.
- In the same pan, add the diced chicken breast, cooking until golden. Then, incorporate the shallot and red bell pepper, cooking for a few more minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and fresh thyme, followed by the tomato paste. Mix well.
- Gradually add half of the chicken stock, allowing the sauce to bubble, then reintroduce the sausage.
- Mix in the cream cheese until melted, followed by the remaining chicken stock. Simmer for a minute.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing well. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water.
- Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan and fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
For those looking to explore healthy pasta options, including whole grain or gluten-free alternatives, EatingWell offers a variety of choices that can easily be substituted in this recipe.
Customization Options
This chicken and sausage pasta is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:
- Swap the Italian sausage for a spicier version or use turkey sausage for a lighter dish.
- Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Experiment with different herbs or add a sprinkle of chili flakes for a kick.
FAQs
- Can I use different types of pasta? Absolutely! While penne or rigatoni works well, feel free to use your favorite pasta.
- How can I make this dish spicier? Increase the heat by choosing hot Italian sausage or adding red pepper flakes.
- What are the best side dishes? A simple green salad or garlic bread complements this pasta perfectly.
- Can this recipe be made gluten-free? Yes, simply use your preferred gluten-free pasta.
- Storage and reheating tips? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently, adding a splash of water or stock to loosen the sauce.
Nutritional Information
This dish is not only delicious but also offers a good balance of protein, carbs, and fats. For detailed nutritional information, consider using an online calculator based on the specific ingredients you use.
Tips for Perfect Pasta Every Time
- Choose the right pasta shape for the sauce. Short, tubular pastas like penne are ideal for creamy sauces.
- Cook pasta to al dente to ensure it retains a slight bite.
- Properly salt your pasta water for flavor. It should taste as salty as the sea.
For those eager to master pasta cooking techniques, CookingLight provides valuable tips and tricks to elevate your pasta dishes.
Conclusion
This chicken and sausage pasta recipe is a testament to the delicious simplicity of Italian cooking. With a few basic ingredients and some culinary creativity, you can bring a taste of Italy into your home any night of the week. Don’t be afraid to customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Buon appetito!
Internal Linking Opportunities
While crafting your article on chicken and sausage pasta recipes, consider incorporating internal links to related content on your site to enhance SEO and provide additional value to your readers. Here are some suggested internal links based on the content available at RecipesFish.com:
- For readers interested in exploring more pasta dishes, consider linking to “Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe”, which offers a seafood twist on a classic pasta dish.
- If your audience enjoys chicken recipes, the “One-Pan Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies Recipe” could be a great addition to their recipe collection.
- And for those looking to pair their pasta with a refreshing salad, the “Tomato Cucumber Avocado Salad Recipe” provides a light and healthy side option.
