Tired of staring at leftover chicken, wondering what to do with it? Don't let those precious protein-packed morsels go to waste! We've got the perfect solution: transforming your leftover chicken into a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious pasta dish. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a healthy and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Get ready to elevate your leftover chicken game!
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
This creamy Tuscan chicken pasta is a fantastic way to use up leftover roasted chicken, grilled chicken, or even leftover chicken from a takeout order. It's packed with flavour, ready in under 30 minutes, and is the perfect example of delicious, homemade cooking made simple.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Sauté the Garlic and Sun-dried Tomatoes: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing the sauce to slightly thicken.
- Combine Everything: Add the shredded chicken and cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir to combine everything evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy your quick and easy dinner!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Veggie boost: Throw in some spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Creamy alternative: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- Cheese please: Experiment with different cheeses like Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or even a blend of cheeses.
- Lemon zest: A little lemon zest adds brightness and a fresh element to the dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
This recipe is a perfect example of transforming simple leftover ingredients into a satisfying and flavourful meal. It's a quick dinner idea that's both healthy and delicious, making it a winner for busy weeknights or a simple yet impressive dish for any occasion. Enjoy!