Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata Cheese
Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata Cheese is a celebration of textures and flavors that will brighten your dinner table. At the heart of this dish lies tender chicken breast, perfectly seared and seasoned, resting atop a nest of al dente spaghetti. But what truly elevates this meal is the creamy burrata cheese, whose luscious center melts into the warm pasta, creating an irresistible sauce that envelops each bite. You’ll find vibrant cherry tomatoes bursting with sweetness, toasted pine nuts adding a delightful crunch, and a touch of fresh basil for an aromatic finish. This recipe is simple yet visually stunning, making it a fantastic choice for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home. Let’s dive into this step-by-step guide to mastering Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata Cheese!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Not only is Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata Cheese delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to prep. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can shine in the kitchen. This family-friendly meal comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner option. The balance of flavors—rich cheese, savory chicken, and sweet tomatoes—means everyone at the table will be asking for seconds. Plus, you can customize this dish by adding seasonal vegetables or flavors to suit your taste, proving that simplicity can be gourmet!
Ingredients for Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata Cheese
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti: The classic pasta choice that holds sauce beautifully.
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, sliced into strips: Tender and lean protein that cooks quickly.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For cooking the chicken and adding richness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Aromatic and flavorful, it brings depth to the dish.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness that enhances the chicken.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: A herbal note that complements the other ingredients.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: For a mild kick of heat.
- 1 1⁄2 cups (225 g) cherry tomatoes, halved: Juicy bursts of sweetness.
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar: Adds acidity to balance the richness.
- 1/4 cup (30 g) toasted pine nuts: For a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
- 1 large burrata cheese ball: The star of the show, creamy and delicious.
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) extra virgin olive oil: A luxurious drizzle to finish.
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a little heat.
- 1/4 cup (15 g) fresh basil, chopped: Bright and fresh, it rounds out the dish.
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 rolling boil. Add 12 oz of spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside, making sure to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use.
2. Sear the Chicken
In a large pan over medium heat, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil. Add the sliced chicken breast along with the minced garlic, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Sear the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Roast the Tomatoes
Using the same pan, add the halved cherry tomatoes and balsamic vinegar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and start to burst, approximately 5 minutes. This roasting process brings out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.
4. Combine Everything
Return the cooked spaghetti to the pan with the roasted tomatoes. Toss the pasta with the juices in the pan, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to achieve extra creaminess. Incorporate the seared chicken pieces and mix everything thoroughly, ensuring an even distribution of flavors.
5. Finish with Burrata & Toppings
Transfer your beautifully mixed pasta into a generous serving dish. Place the burrata cheese ball gently in the center. For the finishing touch, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle the toasted pine nuts, red pepper flakes (if using), and freshly chopped basil over the top for a pop of color and freshness.
6. Serve & Enjoy
To serve, gently break the burrata with a spoon, allowing the creamy center to ooze into the pasta. Enjoy the rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced flavors of your Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata Cheese. This dish is sure to impress and satisfy!
Tips & Tricks
To elevate your Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata Cheese, consider these chef’s secrets:
- Flavor Infusion: Marinating the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and spices for an hour before cooking can infuse even more flavor.
- Pasta Water: Always reserve some pasta cooking water; it’s rich in starch and can help create a silky sauce.
- Vegetable Variations: Add fresh spinach or arugula during the last minute of cooking the pasta for additional color and nutrients.
- Burrata Alternatives: If burrata is unavailable, you can use fresh mozzarella or ricotta as substitutes.
- Spices to Enjoy: Experiment with different herbs, like thyme or rosemary, to discover new flavor profiles.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
When it comes to serving Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata Cheese, presentation is key. Serve it in a large bowl with the burrata prominently displayed in the center, garnished with pine nuts and freshly chopped basil. Pair this dish with a light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. A glass of sparkling water or a smooth herbal tea will perfectly balance the meal. For dessert, consider serving a light sorbet or fresh fruit to cleanse the palate.
Nutritional Information
Per serving, Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata Cheese provides a fulfilling balance of nutrition, with a hearty portion of protein from the chicken, healthy fats from the olive oil and pine nuts, and carbohydrates from the pasta. While it’s a dish meant for indulgence, it’s still packed with nutrients. Each serving contains approximately 600-700 calories, depending on portions and specific ingredients used.
Storing Tips & Variations for Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata Cheese
To store leftover Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata Cheese, cool the dish to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For reheating, gently warm it in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to restore creaminess.
Feel free to make variations by adding sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. You can swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a delightful twist on this dish. For a healthier option, wish to use whole grain pasta or explore gluten-free alternatives that still deliver on taste.
Conclusion for Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata Cheese
Now that you have this irresistible Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata Cheese recipe at your fingertips, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! With its creamy burrata, juicy chicken, and vibrant tomatoes, each bite is a celebration of flavor that will leave you and your loved ones craving more. Start this culinary adventure today, and transform your dining experience with this delightful dish!
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works wonderfully, feel free to substitute your favorite pasta, like fettuccine or penne.
2. Is burrata cheese necessary?
While burrata adds a creamy richness, you can use fresh mozzarella or ricotta as alternatives if unavailable.
3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
You can cook the chicken and pasta ahead of time. Just combine everything before serving and add the burrata fresh.
4. How can I make this dish vegan?
Substitute chicken with grilled vegetables or chickpeas and use cashew cream instead of burrata for a vegan-friendly alternative.
5. What can I serve as a side dish?
A refreshing salad or garlic bread can complement Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata Cheese beautifully, balancing the flavors and textures of your meal.
Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata Cheese
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz 12 oz spaghetti The classic pasta choice that holds sauce beautifully.
Chicken
- 1 lb 1 lb chicken breast, sliced into strips Tender and lean protein that cooks quickly.
Cooking Essentials
- 2 tbsp olive oil For cooking the chicken and adding richness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Aromatic and flavorful, it brings depth to the dish.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika Adds a subtle smokiness that enhances the chicken.
- 1 tsp dried oregano A herbal note that complements the other ingredients.
- 1/2 tsp salt Essential for seasoning.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper For a mild kick of heat.
Vegetables
- 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved Juicy bursts of sweetness.
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar Adds acidity to balance the richness.
Nuts & Cheese
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts For a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
- 1 large burrata cheese ball The star of the show, creamy and delicious.
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil A luxurious drizzle to finish.
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) For those who like a little heat.
Herbs
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped Bright and fresh, it rounds out the dish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 12 oz of spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside, making sure to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use.
- In a large pan over medium heat, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil. Add the sliced chicken breast along with the minced garlic, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Sear the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Cooking
- Using the same pan, add the halved cherry tomatoes and balsamic vinegar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and start to burst, approximately 5 minutes.
- Return the cooked spaghetti to the pan with the roasted tomatoes. Toss the pasta with the juices in the pan, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to achieve extra creaminess. Incorporate the seared chicken pieces and mix everything thoroughly, ensuring an even distribution of flavors.
Serving
- Transfer your beautifully mixed pasta into a generous serving dish. Place the burrata cheese ball gently in the center. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle the toasted pine nuts, red pepper flakes (if using), and freshly chopped basil over the top.
- To serve, gently break the burrata with a spoon, allowing the creamy center to ooze into the pasta. Enjoy the rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced flavors of your Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata Cheese.