Delicious Chicken and Chorizo Pasta Recipe: A Flavorful Family Favorite
Imagine a dinner that brings together the smoky depth of chorizo and the tender juiciness of chicken, all enveloped in a rich, creamy tomato sauce. This Chicken and Chorizo Pasta recipe promises to deliver just that—a hearty, flavorful meal perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing guests, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Fun Fact About Chicken and Chorizo Pasta
Chorizo, a staple in Spanish and Mexican cuisines, dates back to the Roman Empire when it was first introduced as a method of preserving meat. Traditionally, it is made with pork and a blend of spices, including paprika, which gives it its distinctive red color and smoky flavor. The inclusion of chorizo in pasta dishes brings a delightful twist, adding a touch of Spanish flair to a classic Italian staple.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken and Chorizo Pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad of mixed greens and a light vinaigrette, balancing the rich flavors of the dish. A crusty garlic bread is also an excellent accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. For a touch of freshness, garnish with a generous sprinkle of chopped basil and parsley. A glass of chilled white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements this meal beautifully.
Storing Instructions
To store leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days. If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing the pasta. Place it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags, where it will last for up to three months. When freezing, it’s helpful to separate the pasta into individual portions for easier reheating.
Reheating Instructions
When ready to enjoy your leftovers, you can reheat the pasta in several ways:
Stovetop: Place the pasta in a pan over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken stock or water to help loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
Microwave: Transfer the pasta to a microwave-safe dish. Add a little chicken stock or water, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for about 20 minutes or until thoroughly heated.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy this delightful Chicken and Chorizo Pasta as much as we do! Don’t forget to leave a comment below to share your experience or any tweaks you made to the recipe. If you loved this dish, be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes delivered straight to your inbox. Happy cooking! See the recipe below.
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Delicious Chicken and Chorizo Pasta Recipe: A Flavorful Family Favorite
Description
Experience a delightful blend of Mediterranean flavors with this Chicken and Chorizo Pasta. This dish combines the smoky, spicy notes of Spanish chorizo with tender chicken and a creamy tomato sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. Finished with fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese, it's a hearty and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.
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Cook the Chorizo
Heat the olive oil in a large, deep pan over medium-high heat. Add the diced chorizo and cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly crispy and it releases its oil.
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Cook the Chicken
Add the chicken pieces to the pan and cook for 4-5 minutes until mostly cooked through.
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Add Vegetables
Add the diced red onion and red bell pepper to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Prepare the Sauce
Add the chopped tomatoes, smoked paprika, oregano, and marjoram to the pan. Stir well to combine. Pour in the chicken stock and bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Add Cream
Lower the heat and stir in the double cream. Allow the sauce to bubble gently for 1-2 minutes, then turn off the heat.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss well to coat in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
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Finish and Serve
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.
Equipment
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Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 838kcal
- Calories from Fat 441kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 49g76%
- Saturated Fat 23g115%
- Cholesterol 191mg64%
- Sodium 1200mg50%
- Potassium 820mg24%
- Total Carbohydrate 51g17%
- Dietary Fiber 5g20%
- Sugars 8g
- Protein 45g90%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Pasta Variations: Feel free to use your favorite pasta shape. Penne, fusilli, or farfalle work wonderfully with this dish.
Herb Substitutions: If you don't have marjoram on hand, thyme is a great alternative.
Vegetable Additions: Enhance the dish with additional vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
Spice Level: Adjust the spice level to your preference by using a spicier chorizo or adding red pepper flakes.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the double cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or a cashew-based cream for a dairy-free version.
Cheese Substitute: If Parmesan isn't available, Pecorino Romano or a similar hard cheese can be used.
Cooking Chicken: Ensure the chicken pieces are cooked through but not overcooked to keep them juicy and tender.
Pasta Water: Reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency as needed. It helps to thicken the sauce and adds flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely! This recipe works well with various types of pasta such as penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Use whatever you have on hand or prefer.
Yes, you can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter as a lighter alternative. Keep in mind, however, that this may alter the creaminess of the sauce.
To add more heat, consider using a spicier variety of chorizo or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Certainly! Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to the dish. Just sauté them along with the red onion and bell pepper.
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or a meat substitute, and use vegetarian chorizo to create a delicious vegetarian version of this pasta.
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Fiona O'Sullivan
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