In the midst of busy weekdays or cozy evenings at home, a comforting meal that’s both delicious and nourishing is always a welcome addition to the table. One dish that perfectly embodies this blend of flavors and heartiness is the beloved Chicken Walnut Pasta. This recipe brings together tender chicken, crunchy walnuts, and al dente pasta coated in a creamy, savory sauce that will surely delight your taste buds. Let’s dive into creating this satisfying meal that is not only easy to prepare but also sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire!
Chicken Walnut Pasta
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (such as fettuccine or penne)
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the chopped walnuts and toast them for 2-3 minutes until they are fragrant. Remove the walnuts from the skillet and set aside.
5. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
6. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to combine with the garlic. Allow the cream to simmer and thicken slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
7. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well incorporated into the sauce.
8. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, along with the toasted walnuts and cooked pasta. Toss everything together until the sauce evenly coats the chicken, walnuts, and pasta.
9. Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the fresh parsley on top. Give the dish a final gentle stir to incorporate the parsley throughout.
10. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
11. Serve the Chicken Walnut Pasta hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired.
This chicken walnut pasta recipe is a wonderful blend of textures and flavors that is sure to impress your family and guests alike. The creamy sauce with the added crunch of walnuts complements the tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a fantastic dish for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, as it comes together quickly and easily without compromising on taste. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite herbs or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Enjoy the warmth and heartiness of this delightful Chicken Walnut Pasta – a comforting meal that brings joy to every bite!
