Ingredients
Scale
Gathering your ingredients should feel like preparing for a cozy evening in — each item a piece of the puzzle that brings warmth and delight.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- A pinch of cinnamon (for that warm, nostalgic touch)
Feel free to substitute the chicken for turkey or the penne for your pasta of choice. Cooking is all about making it your own, a lesson I learned early on, whisking and folding alongside Mum in our warm, flour-dusted kitchen.
Instructions
Let’s dive into the heart of the matter — creating this dish that promises to enchant.
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute, a smell that instantly transports me back to chilly mornings in Devon.
- Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add the pasta and return the chicken to the pot. Stir occasionally, cooking until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened, approximately 12-15 minutes.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, allowing the cheese to melt into the creamy sauce. Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon for that extra layer of warmth and nostalgia.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving, giving the flavors a chance to meld beautifully.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International