When it comes to comfort food, few dishes compete with the decadence of a well-prepared pasta. Enter chicken spaghetti with burrata cheese—a creamy, delightful dish that’s as satisfying as it is versatile. This recipe combines tender chicken, al dente spaghetti, rich tomato sauce, and the smooth, buttery magic of burrata cheese to create an indulgent meal perfect for any occasion. Besides being flavorful, it’s also packed with protein and nutrients, making it a balanced option for home cooks and pasta lovers alike.
If you’re looking for a dish that will wow your family or impress guests at dinner, chicken spaghetti with burrata cheese easily takes center stage. Let’s break it down with a step-by-step guide, so you can recreate this at home with confidence.
Why This Dish Stands Out
- Burrata Magic: Burrata’s luscious, creamy texture elevates this hearty pasta, turning it into gourmet comfort food.
- Health Benefits: Packed with lean protein from the chicken and slow-releasing carbs from the spaghetti, this dish delivers energy and nutrition.
- Easy to Customize: With a few tweaks, you can adapt this recipe for vegetarians or spice lovers.
Ingredients: What You’ll Need
To make this delicious chicken spaghetti with burrata cheese, gather the following ingredients:
For the Chicken Spaghetti
- 8 oz (225 g) spaghetti – Choose your favorite spaghetti brand, or opt for whole-wheat or gluten-free spaghetti as needed.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Sliced into thin strips or bite-sized chunks.
- 1 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing the chicken.
- 3 cloves garlic – Minced to infuse the dish with aromatic flavor.
- 1 small onion – Finely chopped for a subtle sweetness.
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes – The base of your rich tomato sauce.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream – Adds a smooth, indulgent texture to the sauce.
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes – Optional, for a touch of heat.
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Burrata Finish
- 2 burrata balls (approx. 4 oz each) – Creamy burrata cheese is the star garnish.
- Fresh basil leaves – For garnishing and an added aromatic touch.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Optional, but recommended for an extra savory kick.
Step-by-step Instructions
Follow these steps to create your masterpiece. Even if you’re new to cooking, these instructions will help you ace the recipe on your first try.
1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by organizing all your ingredients to make the cooking process seamless. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and slice the chicken. Boil a pot of salted water for the spaghetti.
2: Cook the Spaghetti
Bring the water to a rolling boil, add the spaghetti, and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the spaghetti, but reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
Pro tip: Add a drizzle of olive oil to the drained spaghetti to prevent sticking while you prepare the sauce.
3: Sauté the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium heat, adding the olive oil once hot. Sear the chicken slices, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and oregano. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until cooked through and golden brown on the edges. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4: Build the Sauce
Using the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Sauté the minced garlic and onions until fragrant and translucent, about 2–3 minutes. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, add the dried oregano and red pepper flakes, and stir well. Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Next, stir in the heavy cream and reserved pasta water. The pasta water contains starches that help the sauce cling to the spaghetti. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
5: Combine and Garnish
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, followed by the spaghetti. Toss everything together, ensuring the spaghetti is well coated in the creamy tomato sauce. Transfer the pasta into serving bowls. Tear apart the burrata cheese balls, placing generous portions on top of each serving. Finally, add fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a beautiful presentation.
Pro tip: Wait to add the burrata just before serving so that it softly melts over the warm spaghetti.
6: Serve and Enjoy
Your creamy chicken spaghetti with burrata cheese is ready to be devoured! Serve immediately while everything is fresh and hot. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a nutritional breakdown per serving (based on four servings):
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 38 g
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Fats: 18 g
This dish is not only indulgent but also provides a balanced mix of macronutrients, making it satisfying and nutritious.
Tips and Variations
Tips for the Perfect Dish
- Don’t Burn the Garlic: Burnt garlic can introduce bitterness to the sauce. Keep a close eye while sautéing.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re not a fan of spice, skip the red pepper flakes. For a spicier kick, add fresh chili oil or chili flakes while serving.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh basil and high-quality burrata for the most flavorful outcome.
Variations to Experiment With
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or chickpeas for an equally satisfying meal.
- Flavor Twist: Stir in a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of smoked paprika in the sauce for added depth.
- Change the Base: Want to avoid gluten or carbs? Substitute the spaghetti with zucchini noodles or chickpea pasta for a healthier alternative.
Storage and Leftovers
Chicken spaghetti with burrata cheese tastes best fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. The burrata should ideally be added fresh right before eating.
Why You Need to Try This Recipe Today
Creamy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying, chicken spaghetti with burrata cheese is the ultimate comfort food for foodies and home cooks. It’s versatile enough to serve for a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering with loved ones. Beyond being delicious, it’s also an opportunity to improve your cooking skills and treat yourself to gourmet-level indulgence.
What are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and create culinary magic in your kitchen. Once you try this recipe, we promise it will become a regular on your meal rotation.
Pairing Suggestions
To elevate your dining experience, pair this creamy chicken spaghetti with burrata cheese with a complementary side dish or drink. Here are some excellent suggestions:
- Side Dish: A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. Alternatively, garlic bread or a warm baguette is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with the flavors of the creamy tomato sauce and chicken. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, try a sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a light herbal iced tea.
- Dessert: Finish your meal with a light dessert, such as a citrus sorbet or a few squares of dark chocolate, to cleanse your palate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Store them in separate containers in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat the components, cook the spaghetti fresh, and combine them with the burrata just before serving.
2. How do I know if the chicken is fully cooked?
To ensure the chicken is done, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part of the chicken—it should be white and not pink.
3. Can I freeze leftovers?
While the pasta and sauce can be frozen for up to three months, the burrata cheese is best used fresh and should not be frozen. Add new burrata when reheating for the best results.
By considering these pairings and tips, you’ll impress anyone you serve this dish to while enjoying a well-rounded, gourmet meal!
Cooking for Special Diets
This creamy chicken spaghetti recipe is wonderfully versatile and can easily be adapted to accommodate different dietary preferences or restrictions. Whether you’re cooking for someone with allergies, specific health needs, or simply catering to personal preferences, here are some tips to modify the dish:
Gluten-Free Option
For a gluten-free version, swap out traditional spaghetti for gluten-free pasta made from rice, quinoa, or legumes. Ensure that any store-bought ingredients, such as crushed tomatoes or Parmesan cheese, are labeled gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
Dairy-Free Version
To make the dish dairy-free, replace the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut cream or cashew cream. Substitute the burrata cheese with a dairy-free mozzarella or leave it out entirely, focusing instead on enhancing the flavor of the sauce with fresh herbs.
Low-Carb/Keto-Friendly
Replace the spaghetti with spiralized zucchini noodles (zoodles) or shirataki noodles for a low-carb alternative. Use heavy cream as-is but reduce the amount of added tomato for fewer carbs. Adding extra protein with grilled or sautéed shrimp can also enhance the dish’s nutritional density without increasing carbs.
Vegetarian Adaptation
To create a vegetarian-friendly version, skip the chicken and instead incorporate hearty vegetables like roasted eggplant, bell peppers, or spinach. Another option is to include protein-packed ingredients like tofu or lentils for a balanced vegetarian meal.
By making these simple adjustments, you can create a dish that fits a range of dietary needs while still delivering the rich and satisfying flavor of the original recipe.
Conclusion
This Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata Cheese is the perfect blend of creamy, savory, and satisfying flavors. The juicy chicken, silky sauce, and luxurious burrata create a dish that feels fancy but is easy enough for a weeknight meal.
Whether you’re cooking for family dinner, a date night, or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, it’s customizable—swap out proteins, add extra spice, or make it vegetarian to suit your taste.
So why wait? Grab your ingredients and enjoy a bowl of pure comfort food tonight!