Chicken, Pesto and Roasted Peppers Fettucine

Chicken, Pesto and Roasted Peppers Fettucine Recipe from Italy

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

This Chicken, Pesto and Roasted Peppers Fettucine recipe is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the flavors of tender chicken, savory pesto, and sweet roasted peppers. It is a perfect meal for a cozy night in or a special dinner with friends and family.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on traditional Italian pasta dishes. Pesto, a sauce made from basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, is a classic ingredient in Italian cuisine. The addition of chicken, roasted peppers, and olives adds depth and richness to the dish, making it a hearty and flavorful meal.

Ingredients

0.67 cup basil pesto
1 (9 oz (255 g)) package fettuccine pasta
1 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cup pulled cooked chicken meat
2 cup sliced roasted bell peppers
0.5 cup pitted olives, halved lengthwise
salt and pepper
0.25 cup parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

How to prepare

Place the pesto in a large bowl.
Cook the pasta following the instructions on the package.
Drain the pasta and set aside 0.33 cup of the pasta water.
Whisk the reserved pasta water into the pesto.
While the pasta is cooking, heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the garlic and cook, stirring until soft and fragrant, for about 30 seconds.
Add the chicken, peppers, and olives and cook, stirring until heated through, for about 3 minutes.
Season with salt and pepper.
Add the cooked pasta and cheese to the pesto, and toss to combine.
Add the chicken mixture to the pasta and combine well.
Divide the pasta among 4 bowls and serve immediately.
Serve with Parmesan cheese on the side.

Variations

Substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
Add sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts for extra flavor.
Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier alternative.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to reserve some of the pasta water before draining the pasta. The starchy water helps to create a creamy sauce when mixed with the pesto.

- Use a good quality pesto for the best flavor. You can make your own pesto or use store-bought pesto for convenience.

- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or protein. Mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or shrimp would all be delicious additions.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette and a glass of white wine. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the pesto and chicken mixture.

- Toss the pasta with the pesto and chicken mixture while it is still warm to ensure that the flavors are well combined.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use store-bought rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken instead of pulled cooked meat.

- Substitute the roasted bell peppers with sun-dried tomatoes or fresh cherry tomatoes.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the pesto and roast the peppers ahead of time to save time when making the dish.

- Cook the pasta and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before assembling the dish.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a pop of color. - Serve the pasta in individual bowls for a more elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

- For a non-alcoholic option, serve with sparkling water with a splash of lemon or lime.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat the pasta in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

420

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 45g

- Dietary Fiber: 3g

- Sugars: 3g

Fats

- Total Fat: 18g

- Saturated Fat: 4g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 25g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 15%

- Vitamin C: 60%

- Calcium: 15%

- Iron: 10%

Alergens

Contains: Dairy, Nuts, Gluten

Summary

This Chicken, Pesto and Roasted Peppers Fettucine recipe is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious and satisfying dish.

Summary

This Chicken, Pesto and Roasted Peppers Fettucine recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for a cozy night in or a special dinner with friends and family. With a balance of flavors and nutrients, it is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for the first time. It was a warm summer day, and I had decided to visit a farmer's market in the neighboring town. As I wandered through the stalls, the vibrant colors and fresh scents of the produce drew me in. I couldn't help but stop at a particular stand that was selling the most beautiful bell peppers I had ever seen.

The farmer who owned the stand, an elderly gentleman with a weathered face and a twinkle in his eye, noticed my interest in the peppers. He struck up a conversation with me, telling me about how he had been growing these peppers for decades and how they were a key ingredient in his family's secret recipe for Chicken, Pesto, and Roasted Peppers Fettucine.

Intrigued, I asked him if he would be willing to share the recipe with me. To my surprise, he agreed, on one condition - that I promise to pass it on to future generations, keeping the tradition alive. I eagerly agreed, and he handed me a weathered piece of paper with the handwritten recipe on it.

I thanked the farmer profusely and made my way home, eager to try out the new recipe. As I gathered the ingredients and began to cook, the kitchen was filled with the aroma of fresh basil, roasted peppers, and sizzling chicken. The flavors melded together perfectly, creating a dish that was both comforting and satisfying.

As I sat down to enjoy my creation, I couldn't help but think about the farmer and his family, and the generations of cooks who had passed down this recipe. I felt honored to be a part of that tradition, and I knew that this dish would become a staple in my own family for years to come.

Over the years, I have made Chicken, Pesto, and Roasted Peppers Fettucine countless times, each time tweaking the recipe slightly to suit my own tastes. I have shared it with friends and family, and it has become a beloved dish at gatherings and celebrations.

The recipe has become a symbol of my love for cooking and my passion for preserving traditions. It reminds me of the farmer and his humble stand at the market, and of the connection that food can create between people.

As I grow older, I find comfort in knowing that this recipe will live on, passed down through the generations just as the farmer had intended. It is a reminder of the power of food to bring people together, to create memories, and to celebrate life's simple pleasures.

And so, as I sit here writing this story, I am grateful for the serendipitous encounter that led me to discover the recipe for Chicken, Pesto, and Roasted Peppers Fettucine. It has enriched my life in ways I never could have imagined, and I know that it will continue to do so for many years to come.