Creamy Chicken and Chorizo Pasta

Creamy Chicken and Chorizo Pasta is the perfect dish to elevate any meal. In just 30 minutes, you can create a comforting and rich bowl of pasta that combines crispy chorizo, tender chicken, and a luscious tomato and cream sauce. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With its vibrant flavors and satisfying textures, creamy chicken and chorizo pasta is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Combination: The pairing of chorizo and chicken creates a delightful savory profile that excites the taste buds.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use any short pasta you have on hand, allowing you to customize the recipe based on your pantry.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its creamy sauce and hearty ingredients, this pasta dish is sure to impress family and friends at any gathering.
• Comfort Food: Rich in flavors and textures, this dish delivers that warm, cozy feeling we all crave.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather the essential tools you’ll need. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large deep pan
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large deep pan: This allows for even cooking of the chicken and chorizo while providing enough space for mixing in the pasta.
• Pot for boiling pasta: A sturdy pot ensures that your pasta cooks evenly without sticking together.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: These utensils are perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 300 g rigatoni (or another type of short pasta)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Protein

• 170 g chorizo (sliced)
• 350 g chicken breast (diced)

For the Vegetables

• 1 small red onion (finely diced)
• 1 small red pepper (diced)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)

For Seasoning & Sauce

• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried marjoram
• 1/4 tsp red chilli flakes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 200 ml chicken stock
• 200 ml double cream

For Garnish

• 6 leaves fresh basil (roughly torn)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
• 30 g grated Parmesan

How to Make Creamy Chicken and Chorizo Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of water to boil, salt it generously, and cook the rigatoni according to package instructions. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Sauté Chorizo

Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large deep pan over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chorizo and fry for about 1–2 minutes until slightly crispy.

Step 3: Add Chicken

Add the diced chicken breast to the pan with chorizo. Cook for approximately 4–5 minutes until the chicken is mostly cooked through.

Step 4: Incorporate Vegetables

Stir in the finely diced red onion and red pepper. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until softened. Then add minced garlic, dried oregano, dried marjoram, red chilli flakes, and tomato paste. Pour in the chicken stock and let it simmer.

Step 5: Create Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat before stirring in double cream. Allow it to bubble gently for about 1–2 minutes before turning off the heat.

Step 6: Combine with Pasta

Transfer your cooked pasta into the pan with sauce. Toss well to combine; if too dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

Step 7: Garnish & Serve

Mix in fresh basil, chopped parsley, and grated Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on top if desired.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Chorizo Pasta

Creamy chicken and chorizo pasta is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with assorted greens, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta.
• Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and Parmesan cheese pair beautifully with the flavors of chorizo.

Add Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Toasted bread spread with garlic butter adds a satisfying crunch that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
• Focaccia: Soft, flavorful focaccia can help scoop up every last bit of sauce.

Garnish Creatively

• Extra Basil: Top servings with fresh basil leaves for an aromatic touch.
• Chili Flakes: A sprinkle of chili flakes can add an extra kick for those who enjoy heat.

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How to Perfect Creamy Chicken and Chorizo Pasta

To achieve the best results for your creamy chicken and chorizo pasta, follow these handy tips. They will help enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh herbs and high-quality chicken for maximum flavor.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy when tossed in the sauce.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Adding reserved water helps adjust the sauce consistency to your liking.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to increase or decrease chili flakes based on your heat preference.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like mozzarella or goat cheese for varied flavor profiles.
• Add Veggies: Incorporating spinach or mushrooms can add nutrition and depth to your dish.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken and Chorizo Pasta

Complement your creamy chicken and chorizo pasta with these delicious side dishes. Each adds something special to your meal.

1. Garlic Spinach: Sautéed spinach in garlic oil is a simple yet nutritious side that brightens up the plate.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds sweetness and color.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil creates a refreshing counterpoint to your pasta.
4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, basil, and garlic offers a burst of flavor that pairs well with creamy dishes.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide crunch and contrast to the creaminess of the main dish.
6. Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges make for a hearty side that everyone loves.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking creamy chicken and chorizo pasta can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Not cooking pasta al dente: Overcooking your pasta can lead to a mushy dish. Cook the pasta until it’s just firm to the bite, as it will continue cooking when mixed with the sauce.
• Using low-quality chorizo: The flavor of your dish hinges on good quality chorizo. Opt for a flavorful, high-quality option to enhance the overall taste of your creamy chicken and chorizo pasta.
• Skipping the reserved pasta water: This water is starchy and helps bind the sauce to the pasta. Don’t forget to reserve a cup before draining; it can make a big difference in texture.
• Adding cream too early: If you add cream too soon, it may curdle or separate. Wait until your sauce is bubbling before stirring in the double cream for a smooth finish.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Tasting your dish as you cook is crucial. Adjust salt and pepper levels based on your preferences after adding all ingredients.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store creamy chicken and chorizo pasta in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Chicken and Chorizo Pasta

• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• The dish can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Creamy Chicken and Chorizo Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals until warm throughout, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about creamy chicken and chorizo pasta that might help you while preparing this delicious meal.

Can I use whole wheat pasta for Creamy Chicken and Chorizo Pasta?

Yes, whole wheat pasta is a nutritious alternative that works well with this recipe. It will add extra fiber without compromising flavor.

What can I substitute for chicken in this recipe?

You can use shrimp or tofu as alternatives. Both options will provide different textures and flavors while complementing the creamy sauce nicely.

Is Creamy Chicken and Chorizo Pasta spicy?

The spiciness mainly comes from red chili flakes. You can adjust this amount based on your heat preference or leave them out entirely for a milder dish.

How do I make my sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, consider adding more double cream or mixing a teaspoon of cornstarch with cold water before adding it to the simmering sauce.

Final Thoughts

Creamy chicken and chorizo pasta is not only quick and easy but also incredibly satisfying. Its rich flavors make it perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding veggies like spinach or mushrooms for an extra twist!