Creamy Chicken Leek and Pea Pasta

Are you on the hunt for the perfect dish that’s both indulgent and nutritious? Dive into this Creamy Chicken Leek and Pea Pasta, a delightful blend of tender chicken, delicate leeks, and sweet peas enveloped in a creamy sauce. Not only will it satiate your pasta cravings, but it’s also a stellar way to up your protein game. Let’s cook up some magic!

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Leek and Pea Pasta

• Chicken breast: 2 pieces (approximately 500g [or about 1.1 lbs])
• Fresh leeks: 2 (sliced)
• Green peas: 1 cup (150g [or about 5.3 oz])
• Pasta: 8 oz (225g)
• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons (30ml)
• Salt: 1 teaspoon (5g)
• Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g)
• Garlic cloves: 2 (minced)
• Chicken stock: 1 cup (240ml)
• Heavy cream: 1/2 cup (120ml)
• Grated parmesan cheese: 1/4 cup (25g)
• Fresh parsley: 1/4 cup (chopped, for garnish)

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Serves: 4

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):

• Calories: 575
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 28g
• Carbs: 46g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 7g

Instructions FOR Creamy Chicken Leek and Pea Pasta:

1. Begin by boiling a pot of water. Once boiling, add a pinch of salt and pour in the pasta. Cook according to the package’s instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. While the pasta is boiling, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. In a large pan, heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add the sliced leeks. Sauté them until they become soft and translucent, which will take about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the minced garlic to the leeks and stir for another minute.
6. Pour in the chicken stock and scrape off any bits stuck at the bottom of the pan. This will add extra flavor to the Creamy Chicken Leek and Pea Pasta.
7. Cut the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and return them to the pan.
8. Add the green peas to the mixture and stir.
9. Reduce the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir continuously until the sauce begins to thicken.
10. Add the cooked pasta to the pan and mix well, ensuring the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.
11. Sprinkle the grated parmesan over the top and mix once more.
12. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
13. Serve the Creamy Chicken Leek and Pea Pasta in bowls, garnishing with chopped fresh parsley.

Tips:

1. Always use fresh leeks. The fresher they are, the sweeter and more aromatic they will be.
2. You can switch out the pasta type based on your preference. Penne or spaghetti work great with this recipe.
3. If you want an extra punch of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red chili flakes.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve your Creamy Chicken Leek and Pea Pasta with a side of garlic bread or a light green salad to balance out the meal.
• Complement this dish with a refreshing glass of lemon-infused water or a non-alcoholic sparkling beverage.
• If you’re feeling fancy, a sprinkle of additional grated parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil on top can elevate this dish even further!