Get ready to elevate your dinner game with our mouthwatering One-Pot Chicken Caesar Pasta recipe! This delightful dish combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and creamy Caesar dressing into one harmonious meal that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. Best of all, it comes together in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply craving a satisfying weeknight dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Join us as we explore the art of one-pot cooking and discover the magic of Chicken Caesar Pasta.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 3 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Caesar salad dressing, divided
- 3/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz. angel hair pasta (equal to 1/2 lb.)
- 1 tablespoon capers
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: Bacon bits, red pepper flakes, chopped parsley
Instructions:
- Season the chicken breasts on both sides with lemon pepper seasoning.
- In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
- Add the chicken broth, 1/2 cup of Caesar salad dressing, milk, lemon juice, and capers to the skillet, stirring to combine.
- Break the angel hair pasta in half and add it to the skillet, ensuring that it is submerged in the liquid.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let the pasta cook for 8-10 minutes, or until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, slice the cooked chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
- Once the pasta is cooked, add the shredded Parmesan cheese and remaining 1/2 cup of Caesar salad dressing to the skillet, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Return the sliced chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat it with the sauce.
- Season the Chicken Caesar Pasta with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot with optional toppings such as bacon bits, red pepper flakes, or chopped parsley.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Pasta Options: Feel free to use any type of pasta you have on hand, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the type of pasta you choose.
- Creaminess Level: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add more Parmesan cheese or reduce the amount of milk used. Conversely, if you prefer a thinner sauce, you can add more milk or chicken broth.
- Vegetable Additions: Add extra vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, spinach, or roasted red peppers for added color, flavor, and nutrients.
Variations to Explore:
- Shrimp Caesar Pasta: Substitute shrimp for the chicken to create a delicious seafood version of this dish. Simply cook the shrimp until pink and opaque, then add it to the skillet along with the pasta.
- Vegetarian Caesar Pasta: Omit the chicken and add extra vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian option. You can also add cannellini beans or chickpeas for added protein and fiber.
- Spicy Caesar Pasta: Add a kick of heat to the dish by stirring in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. Adjust the amount to suit your taste preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe. Simply skip the step of cooking the chicken in the skillet and add the pre-cooked chicken directly to the skillet along with the pasta.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: While this dish is best served fresh, you can make it ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers of Chicken Caesar Pasta for up to 2 months. Transfer the cooled pasta to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag and freeze it. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: Can I use a different type of dressing? A: While Caesar salad dressing adds a classic flavor to this dish, you can experiment with different dressings such as ranch, Italian, or balsamic vinaigrette for a unique twist. Adjust the seasonings accordingly to complement the chosen dressing.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Low-Carb Option: To make a low-carb version of One-Pot Chicken Caesar Pasta, substitute the angel hair pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles (zoodles) or shirataki noodles. Use a low-carb Caesar salad dressing and skip the milk to reduce the carb content further.
- Keto-Friendly Version: For a keto-friendly version, use spiralized zucchini noodles (zoodles) or shirataki noodles in place of the angel hair pasta. Use a keto-approved Caesar salad dressing and omit the milk to keep the dish low in carbs and high in fat.
In conclusion, One-Pot Chicken Caesar Pasta is a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners with family and friends. With its simple preparation and delicious flavors, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re a fan of classic Caesar salad or simply craving a comforting pasta dish, this recipe delivers on taste, convenience, and satisfaction. So why not give it a try and experience the magic of one-pot cooking for yourself? Your taste buds will thank you!