Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata Cheese
Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata Cheese is a delightful dish that harmonizes the comforting textures of spaghetti with the creamy richness of burrata, making it a star on any dinner table. This recipe transforms humble ingredients into a savory symphony, enticing your taste buds with rich flavors and vibrant colors. There’s something undeniably satisfying about twirling the perfectly cooked spaghetti around your fork, catching the luscious, melting burrata that oozes with every bite. Trust me; this step-by-step recipe is worth making, especially for weeknight dinners or special occasions, bringing together simple yet delectable flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
From busy families to romantic dinners, this Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata Cheese ticks all the boxes for an ideal meal. With easy preparation and minimal ingredients, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time at the dinner table. This dish is family-friendly, rich in flavor, and features a delightful creaminess that is sure to please both kids and adults alike. Plus, it can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for any night of the week!
Ingredients for Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata Cheese
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti: Soft yet firm, these long strands are perfect for twirling and holding onto the sauce.
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, sliced into strips: Tender and juicy, these chicken strips soak up all the delectable flavors.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: A necessity for frying the chicken and roasting the tomatoes, adding a fragrant richness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Aromatic and savory, garlic elevates every dish with its robust flavor.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika: This spice adds a hint of smokiness that beautifully contrasts the creaminess of the burrata.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: A staple of Italian cuisine, oregano brings a warm, earthy flavor.
- 1/2 tsp salt & 1/2 tsp black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the other flavors.
- 1 1⁄2 cups (225 g) cherry tomatoes, halved: Sweet and juicy, these tomatoes burst with flavor when roasted.
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar: Adds a tangy sweetness that rounds out the dish.
- 1/4 cup (30 g) toasted pine nuts: Crunchy and nutty, they provide a delightful texture contrast.
- 1 large burrata cheese ball: The star of the dish, its creamy center offers a luxurious finish.
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) extra virgin olive oil: A finishing touch that enhances the flavors of the dish.
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): For those who enjoy a little heat.
- 1/4 cup (15 g) fresh basil, chopped: Offers a bright, herbaceous note to balance the flavors.
Step-by-Step Directions for Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata Cheese
1. Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, following package instructions. This will typically take around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving half a cup of the pasta water for later use.
2. Sear the Chicken
In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken breast, minced garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Roast the Tomatoes
Using the same pan, add the halved cherry tomatoes and drizzle with balsamic vinegar. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and begin to burst, releasing their sweet juices.
4. Combine Everything
Return the drained spaghetti to the pan with the roasted tomatoes. Toss to combine, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the mixture. Gently fold in the cooked chicken strips until everything is well mixed.
5. Finish with Burrata & Toppings
Transfer the spaghetti and chicken mixture to a serving dish. Place the burrata in the center, then drizzle with extra virgin olive oil. Sprinkle the top with toasted pine nuts, red pepper flakes (if using), and fresh chopped basil for a pop of color and flavor.
6. Serve & Enjoy
To serve, gently break the burrata, allowing the creamy center to melt into the dish, enriching the pasta with its luxurious texture. Enjoy the Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata Cheese immediately for the best experience!
Tips & Tricks
To elevate your Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata Cheese even further, consider these chef’s secrets:
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate spinach or arugula when mixing the spaghetti for added nutrition and a pop of color.
- Marinate the Chicken: A quick marinade with olive oil, garlic, and your favorite herbs can enhance the chicken’s flavor.
- Upgrade the Cheese: Besides burrata, you can also sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra cheesy finish.
- Balsamic Reduction: For an extra gourmet touch, create a balsamic reduction by simmering balsamic vinegar until syrup-like consistency before drizzling over the dish.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata Cheese pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. Consider a classic arugula salad with lemon and olive oil for a refreshing contrast. A crusty loaf of bread is also perfect for soaking up any leftover burrata and sauce. For an added touch, serve with a glass of sparkling water infused with citrus for a lovely balance of flavors.
Nutritional Information
One serving of Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata Cheese contains approximately 550 calories, including a healthy dose of protein from the chicken and beneficial fats from the olive oil and nuts. It’s hearty without being overly heavy—ideal for satisfying a hungry family after a long day!
Storing Tips & Variations for Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata Cheese
Leftovers of this delightful dish can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply place in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water to rehydrate the pasta. If you’d like healthier alternatives, consider using whole-grain spaghetti or swapping out some of the pasta for zucchini noodles. Creative variations could include substituting the chicken for shrimp or adding different vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers, for a colorful twist!
Conclusion for Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata Cheese
Ready to tantalize your taste buds? You won’t regret making this Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata Cheese; it’s a creamy, comforting dish that marries simplicity and flavor. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy family meal or impressing guests, this dish comes together seamlessly, inviting everyone to the table. Try this recipe today; your palate will thank you!
FAQs
1. Can I use whole grain or gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute any type of spaghetti, including gluten-free options or whole grain pasta, to suit your dietary preferences.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a pan with a little water to prevent drying out.
3. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy, such as spinach, bell peppers, or even peas, to boost the nutritional value and add flavor.
4. What can I use instead of burrata?
If burrata is unavailable, fresh mozzarella or a creamy goat cheese can be a lovely substitute, offering a similar texture and flavor profile.
5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Cook the chicken and pasta and store separately until you’re ready to combine and finish cooking.
Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata Cheese
Ingredients
Pasta Base
- 12 oz spaghetti Soft yet firm, these long strands are perfect for twirling and holding onto the sauce.
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced into strips Tender and juicy, these chicken strips soak up all the delectable flavors.
- 2 tbsp olive oil For frying the chicken and roasting the tomatoes.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Elevates the dish with its robust flavor.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika Adds a hint of smokiness.
- 1 tsp dried oregano Brings a warm, earthy flavor.
- 0.5 tsp salt Essential seasoning.
- 0.5 tsp black pepper Essential seasoning.
Vegetables
- 1.5 cups cherry tomatoes, halved Sweet and juicy, these tomatoes burst with flavor when roasted.
Finishing Touches
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar Adds a tangy sweetness.
- 0.25 cup toasted pine nuts Provides a delightful texture contrast.
- 1 large burrata cheese ball The star of the dish.
- 0.25 cup extra virgin olive oil Enhances the flavors.
- 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) For those who enjoy a little heat.
- 0.25 cup fresh basil, chopped Offers a bright, herbaceous note.
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving half a cup of the pasta water.
Sear the Chicken
- In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced chicken breast, minced garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Roast the Tomatoes
- In the same pan, add the halved cherry tomatoes and drizzle with balsamic vinegar.
- Cook for about 5 minutes until the tomatoes soften and begin to burst.
Combine Everything
- Return the drained spaghetti to the pan with the roasted tomatoes.
- Toss to combine, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed.
- Fold in the cooked chicken strips until everything is well mixed.
Finish with Burrata & Toppings
- Transfer the mixture to a serving dish and place the burrata in the center.
- Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with toasted pine nuts, red pepper flakes, and fresh chopped basil.
Serve & Enjoy
- Gently break the burrata, allowing the creamy center to melt into the dish. Serve immediately.