Linguine Pasta with Chicken in Tomato Garlic Sauce
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Description: This delightful dish, a treasured recipe from a TV show my daughter discovered a couple of years ago, beautifully combines tender chicken, savory pasta, and a rich tomato-garlic sauce that is simply irresistible. Who could resist such comforting flavors?
Recipe Category: Chicken Breast
Keywords: Chicken, Poultry, Meat, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, Under 60 Minutes
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Linguine | 1 pound |
| Chicken breasts | 1 pound |
| Lemon juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh thyme | ½ teaspoon |
| Fresh basil | 1 teaspoon |
| Diced tomatoes | 2 cups |
| Garlic (minced) | 4 cloves |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 403.1 |
| Total Fat | 11.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.6 g |
| Cholesterol | 46.4 mg |
| Sodium | 56.2 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 51.6 g |
| Fiber | 3.7 g |
| Sugars | 5.4 g |
| Protein | 24.1 g |
Instructions
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Marinate the Chicken: Begin by placing the chicken breasts in a bowl and adding the lemon juice, thyme, and basil. Gently mix the ingredients together until the chicken is well-coated. Cover the bowl and allow it to marinate in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse into the meat.
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Cook the Chicken: After the marinating period, heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken breasts and cook them for approximately 10 minutes, turning occasionally until they are cooked through and have a golden-brown exterior. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a moment.
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Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it briefly for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant, taking care not to let it burn, as this will impart a bitter taste to the sauce.
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Add the Tomatoes: Incorporate the diced tomatoes into the skillet, stirring well to combine with the sautéed garlic. Reduce the heat to low and allow the mixture to simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. During this time, the tomatoes will break down, creating a luscious sauce. Stir occasionally, adjusting the consistency to your liking. If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer.
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Combine Chicken and Sauce: Once the sauce has reached your desired consistency, season it with salt and pepper to taste. Slice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and add it to the sauce, gently mixing to ensure the chicken is coated and heated through.
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Serve Over Linguine: Cook the linguine according to package instructions in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente. Drain the pasta and transfer it to serving plates. Generously ladle the chicken and tomato garlic sauce over the linguine, ensuring a delightful mix of flavors in every bite.
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Optional Cheese Addition: For an extra touch of indulgence, consider adding ½ cup of brie cheese (without the rind) in small chunks right before serving. This ingredient is optional and was not included in my initial version, but it can elevate the dish if you happen to have it on hand.
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Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy this comforting dish with your loved ones, savoring the delightful combination of flavors that make this meal truly special.
This recipe not only highlights the deliciousness of chicken and pasta but also embodies the spirit of family and shared meals, making it a perfect addition to any dinner table. With its balanced flavors and straightforward preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household as well. Enjoy every bite!
