Chicken Spaghetti with Burrata Cheese
A delightful pasta dish featuring sautéed chicken, fresh tomatoes, and creamy burrata, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 650kcal
Ingredients
Pasta & Chicken
- 12 oz spaghetti Long, thin strands that become perfectly tender.
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced into strips Lean and juicy, providing ample protein.
Vegetables & Seasonings
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Aromatic and savory, brings the dish to life.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika For a subtle smoky flavor.
- 1 tsp dried oregano Offers a touch of herbaceous brightness.
- 1/2 tsp salt Essential for flavor enhancement.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper Adds mild heat.
- 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved Sweet bursts of flavor.
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar Provides a tangy sweetness.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped Fragrant and fresh, completes the dish.
Oils & Nuts
- 2 tbsp olive oil Adds richness and depth.
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts Adds a lovely crunch.
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil For drizzling, enhancing flavor.
Optional Spices
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes A hint of spice for those who enjoy a kick.
Cheese
- 1 large burrata cheese ball Creamy and indulgent.
Instructions
Cooking Pasta
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add in the spaghetti and cook until it’s al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
Searing Chicken
- In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken breast, minced garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove chicken and set aside.
Roasting Tomatoes
- Using the same pan, add halved cherry tomatoes and balsamic vinegar. Cook over medium heat, tossing occasionally, for about 5 minutes, or until the tomatoes begin to soften and burst.
Combining Ingredients
- Reintroduce the spaghetti to the pan with tomatoes. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water if you desire extra creaminess. Stir in the cooked chicken until well mixed.
Finishing Touches
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a serving dish. Place the burrata cheese in the center, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, and sprinkle with toasted pine nuts, red pepper flakes (if using), and chopped basil.
Serving
- To enjoy, gently break the burrata, allowing the creamy center to ooze into the pasta. Serve immediately.
Notes
Chef’s secret: Don’t skip toasting the pine nuts; it enhances their flavor. You can substitute whole wheat spaghetti or gluten-free pasta, and switch out chicken for shrimp or tofu for variations.