Chicken Rosa Pasta Recipe

Let’s face it, sometimes a weeknight dinner must be delicious and effortless. Enter Chicken Rosa Pasta, a dish that’s become a staple in my kitchen for its creamy, dreamy sauce and tender, juicy chicken. It’s the recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

What Is Chicken Rosa Pasta?

Chicken Rosa Pasta is a dish combining chicken with a creamy tomato-based sauce. The exact recipe can vary, but generally, it includes ingredients like chicken breast (grilled or sautéed), a creamy tomato sauce (which may consist of tomatoes, cream, garlic, and herbs), and often incorporates pasta such as penne or fettuccine. 

Ingredients:

For The Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or boneless, skinless chicken thighs)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For The Rosa Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can of diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For The Pasta:

• 12 ounces dried pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season generously with oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside to rest on a plate.
2. Make the Rosa Sauce: Heat another tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat in the same skillet (with the leftover drippings from the chicken). Add the chopped onion and cook until softened about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Build the Flavor: Pour in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Creamy Dreaminess: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Finishing Touches: While the sauce simmers, cook your pasta according to package instructions. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/4 cup of the pasta water.
6. Assemble and Serve: Shred or slice the cooked chicken breasts and add them back to the pan with the rosa sauce. Toss in the drained pasta and stir to coat everything evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash or two of the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
7. Garnish and Enjoy! Plate the Chicken Rosa Pasta and sprinkle with freshly chopped basil (or dried basil, if using). Serve with additional grated Parmesan cheese for those who want an extra cheesy experience.

Tips:

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Chicken breasts can dry out quickly. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure juicy perfection.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes with garlic in step 2 for some extra heat.
• Veggie Variations: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the sauce, such as chopped mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
• Leftovers Love You: This dish reheats beautifully. Store leftover Chicken Rosa Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Go Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this recipe a crowd-pleaser for everyone.

What To Serve With

1. Garlic Bread or Breadsticks: A classic choice that complements the creamy texture of the pasta. The crispy exterior and soft interior of garlic bread or breadsticks provide a nice contrast to the pasta.
2. Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette or creamy dressing can balance out the richness of the pasta dish. Choose a mix of greens like lettuce, arugula, spinach, or kale, and add cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and shredded carrots for added texture and flavor.
3. Vegetable Side Dishes: Roasted or grilled vegetables such as asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli are excellent choices. They add color, nutrients, and a different texture to the meal.
4. Antipasto Platter: If you want to offer a more elaborate spread, an antipasto platter with cured meats like prosciutto or salami, olives, marinated artichoke hearts, and cheeses such as mozzarella or provolone can create a Mediterranean-style accompaniment.
5. Focaccia or Bruschetta: Another bread option could be focaccia topped with herbs and olive oil or bruschetta with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil. These options bring additional flavors and textures to the meal.
6. Soup: A light soup such as minestrone or tomato basil soup can precede the pasta dish, providing a comforting and satisfying start.
7. Grilled Chicken or Shrimp: If you want to increase the protein content or offer more variety, grilled chicken breast strips or shrimp can be served alongside or on the pasta.
8. Fruit Salad: For a refreshing contrast, a fruit salad with seasonal fruits like berries, melons, and citrus segments can provide a sweet and juicy complement to the savory pasta dish.

Health Benefits

• Protein from Chicken: Chicken breast, often used in Chicken Rosa Pasta, is a lean source of high-quality protein. Protein is essential for muscle maintenance and repair and overall cellular function in the body.
• Nutrient-Dense Tomatoes: The creamy tomato-based sauce in Chicken Rosa Pasta typically contains tomatoes, which are rich in vitamins C, K, potassium, and folate. Tomatoes also contain antioxidants like lycopene, which may have various health benefits, including reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
• Healthy Fats in Cream and Cheese: While the creamy sauce adds richness to the dish, using moderate amounts of cream or cheese can provide essential fats and fat-soluble vitamins. Opting for lighter cream or alternatives like Greek yoghurt can reduce saturated fat while providing a creamy texture.
• Fiber from Whole Wheat Pasta: Whole wheat pasta, if used, adds dietary fiber to the dish. Fiber promotes digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and contributes to a feeling of fullness, which can aid in weight management.
• Vegetables and Herbs: Many recipes for Chicken Rosa Pasta include vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers, which add vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. Herbs such as basil, oregano, and parsley enhance flavour and provide antioxidants and other health-promoting compounds.
• Controlled Portions and Balanced Macronutrients: When prepared thoughtfully, Chicken Rosa Pasta can provide a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. Controlling portion sizes helps manage calorie intake and can contribute to weight control.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Rosa Pasta is the perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something exceptional. It’s a satisfying and elegant dish, making it ideal for weeknight dinners, weekend gatherings, or even a romantic date night.

More Pasta Recipes:

• BACON TOMATO SAUCE PASTA RECIPE
• CREAMY MOREL PASTA RECIPE

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