Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata Cheese
A delightful dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful pasta, and creamy burrata in an unforgettable fusion of textures and tastes, perfect for family meals.
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 600kcal
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti Al dente pasta forms the comforting base of this flavorful dish.
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced into strips Tender and juicy chicken adds protein and heartiness.
Cooking Essentials
- 2 tbsp olive oil Provides a rich flavor when cooking the chicken.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Enhances the overall taste.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika Adds a subtle smokiness.
- 1 tsp dried oregano Complements poultry perfectly.
- 1/2 tsp salt Essential for flavor enhancement.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper Provides mild heat.
Vegetables and Accompaniments
- 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved Adds color and sweetness.
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar Balances the sweetness of the tomatoes.
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts Adds texture and richness.
- 1 large burrata cheese ball The star of this dish.
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil For drizzling over the pasta.
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) For extra heat.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped Adds freshness and color.
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente for around 8-10 minutes.
- Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
Searing the Chicken
- In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced chicken breast, minced garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove chicken and set aside.
Roasting the Tomatoes
- In the same pan, add the halved cherry tomatoes and balsamic vinegar.
- Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes soften and burst.
Combining Ingredients
- Return the cooked spaghetti to the pan with roasted tomatoes. Toss gently, adding reserved pasta water for creaminess.
- Add the seared chicken and mix thoroughly to distribute flavors.
Finishing Touch
- Transfer pasta to a serving dish and place burrata in the center.
- Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with pine nuts, red pepper flakes, and fresh basil.
Serving
- Serve hot, encouraging guests to break open the burrata to meld with the pasta.
Notes
For added depth of flavor, marinate chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for 30 minutes. Consider using rotisserie chicken to save time. Add spinach or zucchini for more vegetables.