Are you craving a rich, creamy, and flavorful pasta dish? Look no further than this creamy vodka sauce with chicken recipe! This dish is surprisingly easy to make, yet delivers restaurant-quality taste and elegance, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. We'll explore everything from the perfect vodka sauce base to the best chicken preparation, ensuring a delicious and satisfying meal.
What Makes This Vodka Sauce Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out because it balances the richness of the cream with the subtle heat of the vodka and the savory depth of the chicken. We use fresh ingredients whenever possible to elevate the flavors and create a truly unforgettable experience. Forget bland, jarred sauces – this recipe is all about homemade goodness.
Ingredients You'll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
For the Vodka Sauce:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup vodka
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
- Cooked pasta of your choice (linguine, fettuccine, or penne work well)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken cubes generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Make the Vodka Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion and sauté until softened (about 3-5 minutes).
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute more.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, and basil. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Stir in the heavy cream and vodka. Simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
- Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet with the vodka sauce. Gently stir to coat the chicken evenly.
- Simmer for a few more minutes to heat the chicken through.
4. Serve:
- Serve the creamy vodka sauce with chicken over your favorite cooked pasta.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different types of chicken?
Yes! Chicken thighs would also work well in this recipe, adding a richer, more flavorful element. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, as thighs tend to cook slightly faster than breasts.
What kind of pasta pairs best with vodka sauce?
Linguine, fettuccine, and penne are all excellent choices. Choose a pasta that can hold the sauce well.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the vodka sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before adding the chicken. The chicken is best added just before serving to ensure it remains tender.
What if I don't have vodka?
While vodka adds a unique depth of flavor, you can omit it entirely. The sauce will still be delicious, though slightly less complex. You could substitute with a splash of dry white wine for a similar effect.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach would be delicious additions to this recipe. Add them along with the onions and garlic.
This creamy vodka sauce with chicken recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!
