Chicken, chorizo, and sundried tomato pasta is a dish that blends bold flavors, hearty ingredients, and a creamy texture into a satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner or an impressive dish to serve guests, this recipe checks all the boxes. Pressed with protein, bursting with Mediterranean flavors, and improved by the smoky goodness of chorizo, this pasta formula is simple to plan and exceptional in taste
Table of Contents
Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors
Before diving into the preparation, gather these ingredients to ensure your cooking process is smooth and enjoyable:
- For the Pasta:
- 300g pasta (penne, fusilli, or rigatoni work best)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt for boiling water
- For the Sauce:
- 200g chicken breast, diced
- 150g chorizo, sliced
- 100g sundried tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 200ml heavy cream (or substitute with crème fraîche)
- 100ml chicken stock
- 50g grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional for spice lovers)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- For Garnishing:
- Fresh basil leaves
- Additional grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Pasta
- Fill a huge pot with water, include a liberal squeeze of salt, and bring it to a boil.
- Cook the pasta concurring to the bundle enlightening until al dente.
- This ensures the pasta remains firm and holds the sauce well.
- Drain the pasta, toss it with a drizzle of olive oil, and set aside.
Step 2: Sautéing the Chicken and Chorizo
- Warm a huge skillet over medium warm and include one tablespoon of olive oil.
- Once the oil is hot, include the diced chicken. Season lightly with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Cook the chicken for about 5–7 minutes until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced chorizo. Cook for 3–4 minutes until it’s marginally fresh and discharges its flavorful oils. Take out the chorizo and place it alongside the chicken.
Step 3: Building the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and toss in the diced onion. Sauté for 3–5 minutes until translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an extra diminutive, blending always to avoid burning.
- Stir in the sundried tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes to release their intense flavor.
- Pour in the chicken stock and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
Step 4: Creamy Perfection
- Lower the warm and include the overwhelming cream in the skillet. Stir well to combine with the stock.
- Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce.
- Add the cooked chicken and chorizo back to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the sauce.
- Sprinkle in dried oregano, and red chili flakes, and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Combining Pasta with the Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce.
- Allow the mixture to simmer for 2–3 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully.
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Tips for the Best Chicken, Chorizo, and Sundried Tomato Pasta
- Use High-Quality Sundried Tomatoes: Opt for those packed in oil, as they tend to have a richer flavor.
- Choose the Right Chorizo: Spanish chorizo, with its smoky paprika profile, works best for this recipe.
- Balance the Cream: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute cream with a mix of milk and cream cheese or use half-and-half.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an added burst of freshness.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Component | Amount |
Calories | 520 |
Protein | 28g |
Carbohydrates | 45g |
Fat | 25g |
Saturated Fat | 10g |
Fiber | 4g |
Frequently Asked Questions
What sort of pasta works best for this recipe?
Short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli is ideal as it holds the sauce well, but feel free to use spaghetti or linguine if that’s what you have.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the pasta and sauce separately. Combine and heat them together just before serving to maintain the dish’s freshness.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Crème fraîche, evaporated milk, or a mix of Greek yogurt and milk are excellent substitutes.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use gluten-free pasta and double-check that the chorizo and other ingredients are gluten-free.
How can I add vegetables to this dish?
You can toss in spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms while sautéing the onions for a veggie boost.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
The dish can be frozen, but the texture of the sauce may change slightly. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream and warm gently on the stove.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this pasta with a crisp side salad, such as arugula and Parmesan with a balsamic glaze, to lighten the meal. A crusty loaf of garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables complements this dish beautifully. For drinks, a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water infused with lemon enhances the flavors.
Conclusion
Chicken, chorizo, and sundried tomato pasta is a recipe that showcases the harmony of smoky, creamy, and savory flavors in one bowl. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish promises to impress. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, it’s perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself to this mouthwatering creation!
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