Best Asiago Chicken And Cavatappi Recipes

Asiago chicken and cavatappi recipe is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines creamy Asiago cheese sauce, juicy grilled chicken, and tender cavatappi pasta. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, and even potlucks. It is a crowd pleaser that will leave everyone asking for more!

Ingredients

For the chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

For the pasta:

• 1 pound cavatappi pasta
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups grated Asiago cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For garnish:

• Parsley
• Additional grated Asiago cheese

Instructions

For the chicken:

1. Prepare the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush each chicken breast with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. Remove from the grill and let rest while you prepare the pasta.

For the pasta:

1. Cook the cavatappi pasta according to the package instructions.
2. While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
3. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture becomes a golden brown color.
4. Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, making sure to remove any lumps.
5. Add the garlic powder, salt, and pepper and let simmer for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens.
6. Stir in the grated Asiago cheese until it is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
7. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and toss to coat evenly.

Assembly:

1. Divide the pasta evenly among 4 bowls or plates.
2. Slice the chicken breasts into strips and place on top of the pasta.
3. Garnish with additional grated Asiago cheese and chopped parsley.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips and Tricks

• If you don't have access to a grill, you can also cook the chicken in a skillet or bake it in the oven.
• Feel free to substitute any type of pasta you like, but make sure it is a sturdy shape that can hold up to the thick sauce and chicken.
• To make this dish even more decadent, you can add cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted red peppers to the pasta.
• To save time, you can cook the pasta and grill the chicken ahead of time and then just quickly reheat them in the sauce when you are ready to serve.

Conclusion

Asiago chicken and cavatappi recipe is a simple yet elegant dish that will impress your family and friends. The rich and creamy cheese sauce pairs perfectly with the juicy grilled chicken and tender pasta. With just a few basic ingredients and some culinary finesse, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home. Give it a try and see for yourself!

Asiago chicken and cavatappi is a tasty and filling meal that's perfect for family dinners or special occasions. It's relatively easy to prepare, and can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary requirements. In this article, we will provide valuable tips on how to make this meal even more delicious and presentable.

Tips for preparing the chicken

The main protein in this dish is the chicken, which can be prepared in various ways to add flavor and texture to the dish. Here are some tips for preparing the chicken:

Brining the chicken

To ensure that the chicken is moist and juicy, consider brining it for a few hours before cooking. Brining involves soaking the chicken in a mixture of salt, sugar, and water, which helps to break down the protein fibers and make the meat more tender. You can also add some herbs and spices to the brine to enhance the flavor. After brining, rinse the chicken and pat it dry before cooking.

Seasoning the chicken

To add flavor to the chicken, season it generously with a blend of herbs and spices. You can use a store-bought seasoning mix or make your own by combining salt, pepper, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, and other spices. Rub the seasoning all over the chicken, including under the skin if possible, to ensure that the flavor penetrates the meat.

Pan-searing the chicken

For a crispy crust and juicy interior, consider pan-searing the chicken before baking or poaching it. Heat some oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat, and cook the chicken on both sides until browned and cooked through. This will help to lock in the moisture and create a flavorful base for the sauce.

Tips for cooking the pasta

Cavatappi pasta is a type of twisted tube-shaped pasta that looks like corkscrews. It's commonly used in recipes that call for a hearty pasta shape that can hold up to thick sauces and chunky ingredients. Here are some tips for cooking the pasta:

Using the right amount of water

To cook the pasta perfectly, make sure to use plenty of salted water. The general rule of thumb is to use 4-6 quarts of water per pound of pasta. This will ensure that the pasta cooks evenly and doesn't stick together. When the water comes to a boil, add the pasta and stir occasionally to prevent clumping.

Cooking the pasta al dente

Cavatappi pasta should be cooked until it's al dente, which means it's still slightly firm to the bite. This will give the pasta a satisfying texture and prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce. Follow the package instructions for cooking time, but start testing the pasta for doneness a few minutes before the time is up. Once the pasta is al dente, drain it and set aside.

Reserving some pasta water

Before draining the pasta, reserve a cup or so of the cooking water. This starchy water can be used to thin out the sauce and help it adhere to the pasta better. If the sauce is too thick or sticky, add a splash of the pasta water and stir well.

Tips for making the sauce

The sauce is what brings all the flavors together in asiago chicken and cavatappi. It's typically made with cream, cheese, and herbs, and can be customized to suit different tastes. Here are some tips for making the sauce:

Using quality ingredients

Since the sauce is the star of the dish, it's important to use high-quality ingredients to achieve the best flavor. Use heavy cream that has a high fat content, real asiago cheese that has been freshly grated, and a blend of fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, and basil. Avoid using low-fat or skim milk products, as these can result in a thin and watery sauce.

Melt the cheese slowly

When adding the cheese to the sauce, make sure to melt it slowly over low heat. This will prevent the cheese from clumping or separating and ensure that it blends evenly with the other ingredients. Stir the cheese constantly until it's completely melted and the sauce is smooth.

Adding other ingredients

To add more depth and complexity to the sauce, consider adding other ingredients like chopped sun-dried tomatoes, cooked mushrooms, or caramelized onions. These can add sweetness, acidity, or earthy notes to the sauce and complement the chicken and pasta.

Tips for serving the dish

Once everything is cooked and ready, it's time to assemble the dish and present it in an appetizing way. Here are some tips for serving the dish:

Plate the pasta first

To make sure that everyone gets a fair share of pasta and chicken, plate the pasta first and top it with the chicken and sauce. This will allow everyone to see the portions clearly and avoid over- or under-serving.

Garnish with fresh herbs

To add a pop of color and freshness to the dish, garnish it with some fresh herbs like chopped parsley, basil, or chives. These will provide a contrast to the creamy sauce and make the dish look more vibrant and appetizing.

Serve with a side salad

Since asiago chicken and cavatappi is a rich and filling dish, consider serving it with a light side salad to balance out the flavors and textures. A simple salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette dressing can provide a refreshing contrast to the pasta and chicken and help cut through the richness of the sauce.

Conclusion

Asiago chicken and cavatappi is a delicious and satisfying meal that can be made even better with the right tips and techniques. By using quality ingredients, preparing the chicken and pasta correctly, making a flavorful sauce, and serving the dish in an appetizing way, you can create a memorable meal that will impress your family and guests.