Prepare to delight your taste buds with this creamy roasted red pepper pasta, featuring tender grilled chicken and a luscious sauce that perfectly coats every strand of linguine. This dish harmoniously blends the sweetness of roasted red bell peppers with the richness of Parmesan cheese, creating a comforting and flavorful meal that's perfect for any night of the week.
Photos of Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Recipe
While most ingredients for this recipe are common pantry staples, you might need to grab a few specific items from the supermarket. Shallots offer a milder taste compared to regular onions, making them ideal for delicate sauces. Roasted red bell peppers are typically available in jars, providing a smoky sweetness to the dish. Fresh basil and parsley add a burst of freshness, elevating the overall flavor profile.
Ingredients For Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Recipe
Chicken breasts: Lean protein that becomes tender and juicy when grilled.
Linguine: Long, flat pasta that holds the creamy sauce well.
Butter: Adds richness to the sauce.
Shallot: Provides a subtle, sweet flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Garlic: Adds a robust and aromatic taste to the dish.
Flour: Helps thicken the sauce to a perfect consistency.
Milk: Forms the base of the creamy sauce.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Heavy cream: Adds extra richness and creaminess to the sauce.
Roasted red bell peppers: Provide a smoky sweetness and vibrant color.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty and savory flavor to the sauce.
Fresh basil: Contributes a fragrant and slightly peppery taste.
Fresh parsley: Adds a bright and fresh note to the dish.
One reader, Darya Poston says:
This creamy roasted red pepper pasta is a game-changer! The sauce is rich and flavorful, perfectly complementing the tender grilled chicken. The fresh basil and parsley add a delightful touch. A new favorite in our household!
Techniques Required for Making Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta
How to cook pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to directions on the package to al dente. How to sauté shallots and garlic: Melt butter in a sauté pan over medium heat, add shallots and sauté for 2 minutes or until lightly golden, then add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds longer. How to make a roux: Add flour to the sautéed shallots and garlic, and cook, stirring constantly for 1 minute. How to make a béchamel sauce: While whisking, slowly pour in milk, season with salt and pepper to taste, and cook until it begins to thicken. How to blend sauce: Pour the mixture into a blender, cover, and blend until the peppers are nearly pureed. How to grill chicken: Preheat a grill to 425 degrees F, pound thicker parts of chicken to even thickness, brush chicken lightly with olive oil, season both sides with salt and pepper, brush grill grates lightly with oil, then grill the chicken, rotating once halfway through cooking until the center of the chicken registers 165 degrees F, about 7 to 8 minutes total. How to rest grilled chicken: Transfer the grilled chicken to a plate, cover with foil, and let rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing.
How To Make Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta
Try a stronger, but flavorful meal for dinner with our red pepper pasta! Get a bite of roasted red peppers and chicken in a delectably creamy plate.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1lbchicken breastsboneless, skinless, grilled and sliced into strips
- 12ozdry liguineor fettuccine pasta
- 2tbspbutter
- ⅓cupshallotfinely chopped
- 1tbsp garlicminced
- 1 ½tbspflour
- 1 ¼cupsmilk
- salt and freshly ground black pepper
- ¼cup heavy cream
- 16ozroasted red bell peppersdrained
- ½cupparmesan cheesefinely shredded, plus more shredded or shaved for serving
- 2tbspfresh basilchopped
- 2tbspfresh parsleychopped
Instructions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to directions on package to al dente.
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Melt butter in a saute pan over medium heat.
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Add shallot and saute 2 minutes or until lightly golden then add garlic and saute 30 seconds longer.
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Add flour and cook, stirring constantly 1 minute. While whisking, slowly pour in milk.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste and cook until it begins to thicken.
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Reduce heat slightly, stir in cream, bell peppers and parmesan and cook just until the parmesan has melted.
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Pour the mixture into a blender, then cover and blend until peppers are nearly pureed.
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Return the sauce to then pot then add the drained pasta to sauce.
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Toss to evenly coat and heat and toss over low heat for a minute to allow some of the sauce to soak into pasta.
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Toss in 1 tablespoon of basil and parsley, then set aside.
Grill Chicken:
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Preheat a grill to 425 degrees F.
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Pound thicker parts of chicken to even thickness.
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Brush chicken lightly with olive oil then season both sides with salt and pepper.
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Brush grill grates lightly with oil then grill the chicken, rotating once halfway through cooking until center of chicken registers 165 degrees F, about 7 to 8 minutes total.
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Transfer to a plate, cover with foil and let rest 5 to 10 minutes before slicing.
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Plate the pasta, then top with grilled chicken, parmesan and remaining basil and parsley.
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Serve, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 1891.63kcal
- Fat: 145.74g
- Saturated Fat: 88.32g
- Trans Fat: 0.23g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 42.54g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.43g
- Carbohydrates: 63.46g
- Fiber: 7.05g
- Sugar: 36.13g
- Protein: 87.49g
- Cholesterol: 510.14mg
- Sodium: 2312.13mg
- Calcium: 2286.34mg
- Potassium: 1526.60mg
- Iron: 4.69mg
- Vitamin A: 1568.33µg
- Vitamin C: 145.79mg
Technique Tip for Perfecting Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta
When blending the roasted red bell peppers into the sauce, make sure to blend until they are nearly pureed but still have a slight texture. This will give the sauce a richer, more complex flavor and a delightful mouthfeel.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Pasta Recipe
Prepare ingredients in advance: Chop shallot, garlic, and herbs ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.
Use pre-cooked chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken instead of grilling your own.
Opt for jarred roasted peppers: Purchase jarred roasted red bell peppers to skip the roasting step.
Cook pasta simultaneously: Boil the pasta while preparing the sauce to save time.
Blender efficiency: Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to puree the sauce, reducing cleanup time.
Substitute Ingredients For Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Recipe
chicken breasts - Substitute with tofu: Tofu is a great plant-based protein that absorbs flavors well, making it a suitable substitute for chicken in this pasta dish.
dry linguine - Substitute with spaghetti: Spaghetti has a similar texture and cooking time, making it an easy swap for linguine.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil provides a similar richness and can be used to sauté the shallots and garlic.
shallot - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onions have a similar flavor profile and can be used in place of shallots.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: If fresh garlic is unavailable, garlic powder can provide a similar flavor, though it should be used in smaller quantities.
flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can be used as a thickening agent in place of flour, though you may need to adjust the quantity.
milk - Substitute with unsweetened almond milk: Unsweetened almond milk can provide a similar creamy texture for those who are lactose intolerant or prefer a dairy-free option.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a similar salty flavor with an additional umami depth.
freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat and can be used if black pepper is unavailable.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream provides a rich, creamy texture and is a good dairy-free alternative.
roasted red bell peppers - Substitute with sun-dried tomatoes: Sun-dried tomatoes offer a different but equally rich and slightly sweet flavor.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor and is a good vegan alternative to parmesan.
fresh basil - Substitute with dried basil: Dried basil can be used in place of fresh, though it should be used in smaller quantities as it is more concentrated.
fresh parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro offers a fresh, vibrant flavor and can be used if parsley is unavailable.
Best Way to Present This Creamy Pasta Dish
Serve smaller portion sizes: Present a delicate portion of linguine on a pristine white plate, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy roasted red pepper sauce.
Use decoration: Garnish the dish with finely chopped fresh basil and parsley, adding a vibrant green contrast to the rich red sauce.
Highlight the protein: Slice the grilled chicken breasts thinly and fan them out elegantly over the pasta, showcasing the perfectly cooked, juicy meat.
Add texture: Sprinkle a light dusting of freshly grated parmesan cheese over the top, allowing it to melt slightly and add a touch of umami.
Create height: Twirl the pasta into a small nest using a carving fork, creating a visually appealing mound that adds dimension to the plate.
Use a sauce drizzle: Drizzle a small amount of the creamy roasted red pepper sauce around the plate's edge, adding an artistic touch and hinting at the flavors within.
Incorporate microgreens: Add a few sprigs of microgreens on top of the grilled chicken for an extra layer of freshness and a pop of color.
Balance the plate: Ensure the plate has a balanced composition, with the pasta and chicken occupying distinct yet harmonious spaces, creating an inviting and professional presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Roasted Red Pepper Pasta
Large pot: Used to boil the pasta in salted water until al dente.
Saute pan: Utilized to melt butter and sauté shallots and garlic.
Whisk: Essential for stirring the flour and milk mixture to avoid lumps.
Blender: Needed to puree the roasted red bell pepper sauce until smooth.
Grill: Used to cook the chicken breasts to perfection.
Tongs: Handy for flipping the chicken on the grill.
Meat thermometer: Ensures the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
Cutting board: Provides a surface to pound and slice the chicken.
Knife: Necessary for chopping shallots, garlic, basil, and parsley, as well as slicing the chicken.
Measuring cups: Used to measure out ingredients like milk, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese.
Measuring spoons: Needed for precise measurements of butter, flour, and seasonings.
Colander: Drains the cooked pasta before adding it to the sauce.
Wooden spoon: Useful for stirring the sauce and pasta together.
Grater: Grates the parmesan cheese for the sauce and garnish.
Plate: For resting the grilled chicken before slicing.
Foil: Covers the chicken to keep it warm while it rests.
Serving dish: Used to plate the finished creamy roasted red pepper pasta with grilled chicken.
How To Store and Freeze Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta
- Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or reheat the entire dish in a covered skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to restore the creamy texture.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the creamy roasted red pepper pasta for up to 2-3 months:
- Transfer the cooled pasta to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
- Label the container with the date and contents for easy reference.
- When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen pasta overnight in the refrigerator.
- Reheat the thawed pasta in a covered skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy consistency.
- It's best to store the grilled chicken separately from the pasta to maintain its texture and flavor:
- Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or reheat in a covered skillet over low heat until warmed through.
- If you have leftover grilled chicken, you can also freeze it for up to 2-3 months:
- Wrap the cooled chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
- Label the container with the date and contents for easy reference.
- When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as desired.
How To Reheat Leftover Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover creamy roasted red pepper pasta to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven and reheat for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is heated through. This method helps to maintain the creamy texture of the sauce and prevents the pasta from drying out.
For a quicker option, you can use the microwave. Place the desired portion of pasta in a microwave-safe bowl and add a splash of milk or cream to help maintain the sauce's consistency. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the pasta is heated to your liking.
If you have a stovetop available, reheat the pasta in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add a small amount of milk or cream to the pan to help loosen the sauce and prevent it from sticking to the bottom. Stir the pasta gently and continuously until it is heated through, taking care not to overheat or overcook the pasta, which can cause it to become mushy.
For a delicious twist, transform your leftover creamy roasted red pepper pasta into a baked pasta dish. Transfer the pasta to an oven-safe dish, top it with some extra shredded parmesan cheese, and place it under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly golden. This method adds a nice crispy top layer to the creamy pasta.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your pasta quickly and efficiently. Place the desired portion of pasta in an air fryer-safe dish, add a splash of milk or cream to maintain the sauce's consistency, and cover the dish with foil. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until the pasta is heated through. This method is perfect for achieving a crispy top layer while keeping the pasta moist and creamy.
Random Fact About Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta
A fun fact about this creamy roasted red pepper pasta recipe is that roasted red bell peppers are rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin and a strong immune system.
Is Making Roasted Red Pepper Pasta at Home Economical?
Analyzing the cost-effectiveness of this creamy roasted red pepper pasta recipe, we find it to be quite reasonable. The main expenses come from chicken breasts, roasted red bell peppers, and parmesan cheese. However, these ingredients are balanced by more affordable items like dry linguine, milk, and fresh herbs. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $20-$25 USD. Given the delicious and satisfying nature of this dish, the overall verdict is a solid 8 out of 10.
Is Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Healthy or Unhealthy?
This creamy roasted red pepper pasta recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes nutrient-rich ingredients like red bell peppers, shallots, garlic, and fresh herbs. Chicken breast is a lean protein source, and the dish incorporates some dairy for calcium. However, the recipe also contains significant amounts of butter, heavy cream, and cheese, which are high in saturated fat and calories. The use of white flour pasta and all-purpose flour further increases the carbohydrate and calorie content without providing much fiber or nutrients.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Swap the white flour pasta for a whole grain or legume-based alternative to increase fiber and nutrient content
- Reduce the amount of butter and heavy cream, or replace them with healthier options like olive oil and Greek yogurt
- Incorporate more vegetables into the dish, such as spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms, to boost the nutrient profile and add volume without excessive calories
- Use a smaller amount of cheese, or opt for a lower-fat variety like part-skim mozzarella
- Replace some of the pasta with spiralized vegetables or spaghetti squash to lower the carbohydrate content and increase vegetable intake
- Experiment with herbs and spices to add flavor without relying heavily on salt and fat
Editor's Thoughts on Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Recipe
This creamy roasted red pepper pasta recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The roasted red bell peppers add a smoky sweetness that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce, while the grilled chicken provides a savory, protein-rich element. The use of fresh basil and parsley adds a refreshing herbal note, enhancing the overall dish. The process is straightforward, yet the result is restaurant-quality, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The balance of creaminess, tanginess, and herbaceousness makes this dish a standout.
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Why trust this Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Recipe:
This recipe combines the rich flavors of roasted red bell peppers and parmesan cheese to create a creamy, indulgent sauce that perfectly coats the linguine. The addition of grilled chicken adds a satisfying protein element, making it a complete meal. Fresh basil and parsley elevate the dish with their vibrant, aromatic notes. Each step is carefully crafted to ensure a delicious and foolproof result, making this a trusted recipe for any home cook.
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