Elevate your dinner game with this Creamy Chicken Pasta featuring artichoke hearts. Combining tender, juicy chicken with the delightful tang of artichoke hearts, all wrapped in a luscious, creamy sauce, this dish is a culinary journey to the heart of the Mediterranean. It’s a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication, sure to satisfy your taste buds. Let’s embark on creating this delicious Mediterranean delight.
Ingredients
For the Creamy Chicken Pasta:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) penne pasta or your favorite pasta variety
- 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
For the Creamy Chicken Pasta:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the thinly sliced chicken breasts with salt, freshly ground black pepper, dried basil, and dried oregano.
- Sear the Chicken:
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken slices and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Create the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3-4 minutes, letting it thicken slightly.
- Introduce the Artichoke Hearts and Tomatoes:
- Gently stir in the drained and quartered artichoke hearts and halved cherry tomatoes. Continue to simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Add the Parmesan Cheese:
- Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it’s fully incorporated into the sauce, creating a rich, creamy consistency.
- Combine Pasta and Chicken:
- Return the cooked pasta and seared chicken to the skillet. Toss them gently in the creamy sauce, ensuring they are well coated.
- Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper to suit your preferences.
- Garnish and Serve:
- If desired, garnish your Creamy Chicken Pasta with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and added flavor.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve your Creamy Chicken Pasta with Artichoke Hearts hot, and savor the Mediterranean-inspired flavors in every creamy, delectable bite.
Tips
- For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Experiment with different pasta shapes to create unique textures in your dish.
- If you have fresh basil on hand, feel free to use it in place of dried basil for an even fresher flavor.
Creamy Chicken Pasta with Artichoke Hearts is a harmonious blend of flavors that transports you to the Mediterranean coast with every bite. The tender chicken, tangy artichoke hearts, and rich, creamy sauce create a symphony of taste and texture. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress. So, fire up your skillet, bring a taste of the Mediterranean into your kitchen, and savor the exquisite combination of creamy, tangy, and savory elements in this delightful pasta dish.