There’s nothing quite like a hearty pasta dish to satisfy your cravings and bring comfort to your soul. Today, we’re elevating the classic pasta with a delicious 5-star twist: grilled chicken. This recipe combines the rich, savory flavors of perfectly grilled chicken with the creamy, luscious pasta, making it an ideal meal for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner, a family meal, or simply treating yourself, this grilled chicken pasta recipe is sure to impress and delight. Let’s dive into the details of creating this culinary masterpiece at home.
Nutritional Value
This 5-star pasta with grilled chicken is not only indulgent but also packed with essential nutrients. Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on one serving of 250 grams):
– Calories: 550 kcal
– Protein: 35g
-Fat: 20g
– Saturated Fat: 6g
– Carbohydrates: 55g
– Fiber: 4g
– Sugar: 6g
– Cholesterol: 95mg
– Sodium: 700mg
– Calcium: 15% of the Daily Value (DV)
– Iron: 20% of the DV
This pasta dish provides a balanced meal with a good amount of protein from the grilled chicken, complex carbohydrates from the pasta, and essential vitamins and minerals from the vegetables and herbs. It’s a nutritious choice that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Ingredients
To create this 5-star pasta with grilled chicken, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Grilled Chicken:
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
– 300 grams pasta (such as penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and coat them evenly. Let the chicken marinate for at least 20-30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill the marinated chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F).
3. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.
4. 
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cherry tomatoes, cooking until the tomatoes start to soften.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce thickens.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste.
7. 
Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Chicken
1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
2. Add the sliced grilled chicken on top and sprinkle with chopped fresh basil.
3. Give everything a final toss to combine all the flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely You can use any pasta you prefer or have on hand. Penne, fettuccine, spaghetti, or even whole wheat pasta all work well with this recipe.
1. What if I don’t have a grill?
If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken in a grill pan or regular skillet on the stove. Just make sure it’s heated to medium-high and cook the chicken as instructed.
1. Can I add other vegetables to the pasta?
Yes, feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to the pasta for extra flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the onions and garlic.
1. How can I make this dish lighter?
To make a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or a light cream instead of heavy cream. You can also use whole wheat pasta and reduce the amount of Parmesan cheese.
1. Is there a dairy-free option?
Yes, you can make a dairy-free version by using a dairy-free cream substitute and vegan Parmesan cheese. Ensure all other ingredients are dairy-free as well.
Conclusion
This delicious 5-star pasta recipe with grilled chicken is a perfect blend of rich flavors and satisfying textures. The juicy, flavorful grilled chicken pairs beautifully with the creamy pasta, creating a dish that’s both comforting and impressive. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply enjoying a delicious meal at home, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the process of making this delightful pasta dish and savor every bite of your homemade culinary masterpiece