Merken Creamy Avocado Chicken Pasta is a luscious dish featuring ripe avocados blended into a silky, no-cook sauce. This modern American main dish combines the freshness of basil and lemon with the heartiness of grilled chicken for a nourishing meal that feels light yet satisfying. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, it offers a vibrant green twist on traditional pasta recipes.
Merken The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. By blending the avocado into a sauce while the pasta cooks, you create a rich coating that clings perfectly to every strand of spaghetti. The addition of grilled chicken breast adds a savory depth, making it a complete and balanced meal for any day of the week.
Ingredients
- Poultry: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 400 g), 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Pasta: 350 g (12 oz) dried spaghetti or linguine
- Avocado Sauce: 2 ripe avocados (peeled and pitted), 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream, 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1 clove garlic (minced), 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper, 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- Garnishes: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional), lemon zest (optional), red pepper flakes (optional), extra basil leaves
Instructions
- Step 1: Grill the Chicken
- Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Brush chicken breasts with 1 tbsp olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 6–7 minutes per side until cooked through and juices run clear. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly.
- Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain.
- Step 3: Blend the Sauce
- In a food processor or blender, combine the avocados, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and basil leaves. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy.
- Step 4: Toss and Assemble
- In a large bowl, toss the hot drained pasta with the avocado sauce. Add the reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve a silky consistency. Add the sliced grilled chicken and gently toss to combine.
- Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Divide the pasta among plates and garnish with extra basil, Parmesan, lemon zest, or red pepper flakes as desired. Serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best results, use a grill pan to achieve char marks on the chicken, which adds extra flavor. It is essential to use a food processor or blender to get the avocado sauce truly smooth. Always reserve the pasta water, as its starch helps the sauce emulsify and stick to the pasta strands perfectly.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add cherry tomatoes or grilled zucchini for extra texture. You can substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based alternative for a lactose-free option. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta also works beautifully with this creamy avocado sauce.
Serviervorschläge
Garnish the plates with freshly grated Parmesan and a touch of lemon zest for a bright finish. This dish pairs excellently with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio. Serve immediately to enjoy the sauce at its freshest and most vibrant green color.
Merken This Creamy Avocado Chicken Pasta is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a sophisticated and healthy meal. Whether you are hosting a casual dinner or looking for a nourishing post-workout lunch, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the fresh, bold flavors of this modern classic.
