Title: Spaghetti with Cheesy Tomato Garlic Sauce and Lemon Chicken – A Comforting Classic with a Zesty Twist
Introduction
Craving for a comfort meal but tired of old classics? This hearty dish of Spaghetti with Cheesy Tomato Garlic Sauce and Lemon Chicken is the perfect solution! Every bite is a blend of rich, creamy tomato sauce loaded with garlic, glistening spaghetti, and tender lemon-infused chicken.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a fantastic fusion of classic Italian spaghetti and zesty lemon chicken. It’s perfect for those days when you’re in need of some comforting dinner that is easy to prepare yet impressive enough to serve guests.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
How to Make Spaghetti with Cheesy Tomato Garlic Sauce and Lemon Chicken
Ingredients:
For the Spaghetti
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
For the Lemon Chicken
– 2 medium chicken breasts
– Salt and pepper
– 1 lemon, zested and juiced
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Directions:
1. Start by preparing the lemon chicken. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, lemon zest, and half the lemon juice. Cook in a skillet until golden brown, then let rest before slicing.
2. Next, cook the spaghetti as per the package instructions. Drain and keep aside.
3. Prepare the cheesy tomato garlic sauce in the same skillet, sautéing the minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant before adding crushed tomatoes and the remaining lemon juice. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese and let it cook until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Finally, add spaghetti to the skillet and toss well. Serve with slices of lemon chicken and a garnish of fresh basil leaves and Parmesan cheese.
How to Serve
Dish up the spaghetti with ample sauce, place the lemon chicken slices on top garnish it with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and a few fresh basil leaves. Complement the meal with a fresh side salad and crusty bread.
How to Store
Store the lemon chicken and spaghetti with sauce in separate airtight containers. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat in a casserole or microwave before serving.
Tips to Make Spaghetti with Cheesy Tomato Garlic Sauce and Lemon Chicken
Keep an eye on your chicken when cooking to ensure it doesn’t dry out. For a squeeze of extra freshness, add a splash of lemon juice to your spaghetti just before serving.
Variation
You can replace the spaghetti with other pasta like penne or fettuccine. Adding some chopped black olives or capers to the tomato sauce will give an extra pop of flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use another type of pasta for this dish?
Yes, feel free to use any type of pasta you like. Keep in mind that thinner pastas like spaghetti or angel hair will mix better with the sauce.
2. Is there a dairy-free alternative for the sauce?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
3. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Absolutely, if you have leftover cooked chicken that can be easily substituted in this recipe. However, for the best lemon flavor, make sure to marinate the chicken in lemon juice ahead of heat-treatment.
Whip up this spaghetti and lemon chicken dish and let it become your new comfort food go-to! It is a proof that simple ingredients can be transformed into a top-notch meal with very minimal effort. Enjoy the cooking and bon appétit!