Before diving into the deliciousness of Carrabba’s Pasta Carrabba, let’s talk about what you can enjoy alongside this dish. A light, crisp salad with a zesty vinaigrette complements its rich flavors beautifully.
Think about an Italian Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil. If you’re feeling fancy, some garlic bread on the side adds the perfect touch. Let’s not forget a glass of Chianti or even a refreshing sparkling water with lemon—it brings a nice balance to the meal.
There’s something magical about pasta. Its versatility knows no bounds, and when it’s enriched with flavor, it becomes more than just food; it’s an experience.
I first encountered Carrabba’s Pasta Carrabba at the beloved Italian restaurant chain, Carrabba’s Italian Grill. The joy of taking that first bite stayed with me long after I left the table.
This dish isn’t just another pasta recipe; it brings together succulent chicken, earthy mushrooms, fresh peas, and a luscious cream sauce—with fettuccine as the canvas. If you’re looking to recreate this delightful dish at home, you’re in for a treat.
What is Carrabba’s Pasta Carrabba?
Carrabba’s Pasta Carrabba is a signature dish that highlights the best of Italian-American cooking. It’s not simply a plate of pasta; it’s a thoughtful combination of textures and flavors.
The main components—chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy sauce—create a comforting yet elegant meal. The beauty lies in how quickly it can be whipped up while still impressing your family or dinner guests.
What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?
Now let’s talk about the flavor profile—the heart of any great dish. The combination of rich cream and tender chicken is comforting, while the mushrooms offer an earthy depth.
The peas add a subtle sweetness, brightening the dish. Each ingredient plays a role; it’s a well-orchestrated flavor party that leaves you dreaming about your next meal.
Picture the cream blending with the umami from the mushrooms, creating a sauce that lovingly clings to each strand of fettuccine. I’m telling you, it’s a match made in culinary heaven.
What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Pasta Recipes?
You might wonder, what sets this recipe apart from other pasta dishes? The answer lies in the unique blend of ingredients and techniques.
While many pasta recipes lean heavily on heavy sauces or meat-heavy combinations, Carrabba’s Pasta Carrabba strikes a balance. It allows each element to shine without overpowering the others.
The inclusion of fresh herbs adds a layer of freshness often missing in traditional recipes. It elevates this dish from the ordinary to the unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you can embark on this flavorful journey, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up an enticing bowl of Carrabba’s Pasta Carrabba:
- Chicken: 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- High-quality extra virgin olive oil: ½ cup
- Aged balsamic vinegar: 6 tablespoons
- Fresh basil leaves: ¼ cup, chopped
- Salt: to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper: to taste
Sauce:
- Fresh mushrooms: 6 ounces, sliced
- Frozen sweet English peas: 1 cup
- Rich heavy cream: 2 cups
- Medium shallots: 4, finely chopped
- Unsalted butter: 3 tablespoons
- Crushed red pepper flakes: ½ teaspoon
- Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
Pasta:
- Fresh fettuccine: 1 (9-ounce) package
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: 2 ounces
- Fresh parsley: 1 tablespoon, chopped
Step-by-Step Directions
Let’s get cooking! Here’s a detailed guide to creating your own Carrabba’s Pasta Carrabba.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, mix the extra virgin olive oil, aged balsamic vinegar, chopped basil, and a generous sprinkle of salt and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well-coated. Let this marinate for about 30 minutes. This step infuses significant flavor into the chicken and sets the stage for the whole dish.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook it in the skillet for about 6–8 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and golden brown. Set the chicken aside on a cutting board. After it cools a bit, slice it into strips.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add a bit of butter. Then toss in the finely chopped shallots and sauté until they are translucent. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until tender. Now pour in the heavy cream, allowing it to simmer gently. Stir in the peas, crushed red pepper flakes, and garlic powder. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Meanwhile, cook the fresh fettuccine in a pot of boiling salted water. Follow the package instructions—usually, fresh pasta cooks quite quickly. Drain it well and toss it in the skillet with the sauce, letting the pasta absorb the flavors.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Now it’s time to bring it all together. Add your sliced chicken to the pasta and sauce mixture. Gently toss everything, ensuring each strand of pasta is coated with creamy goodness.
Finish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for pops of freshness.
Tips on Making Carrabba’s Pasta Carrabba
Here are a few pro tips to take your dish to the next level:
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients. They make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Don’t Rush the Sauce: Let the sauce simmer for a bit for better flavor depth. Good things take time.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust salt and pepper to your preference throughout the cooking process.
- Experiment with Herbs: Try adding thyme or oregano to diversify the flavor profile.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed right after cooking for that creamy pasta goodness.
How Can I Store This Carrabba’s Pasta Carrabba?
If you have leftovers, you’re in luck! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 3 days.
When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce. This keeps it from drying out.
Substitute Options for Ingredients
Not all ingredients might be available in your kitchen. Here are some great substitutes:
- Chicken: Turkey breast works as a lighter option.
- Heavy Cream: Use coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.
- Fettuccine: Swap for gluten-free pasta if gluten is a concern.
- Peas: Green beans can add a nice crunch and similar flavor.
Carrabba’s Pasta Carrabba Recipe
Equipment
- Large skillet
Ingredients
- ½ cup high-quality extra virgin olive oil
- 6 tablespoons aged balsamic vinegar
- 6 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves chopped
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 6 ounces fresh mushrooms sliced
- 1 cup frozen sweet English peas
- 2 cups rich heavy cream
- 4 medium shallots finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes adds a subtle heat
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder enhances savory depth
- 1 9-ounce package fresh fettuccine
- 2 ounces freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped (for added freshness)
Instructions
- Start by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, mix the extra virgin olive oil, aged balsamic vinegar, chopped basil, and a generous sprinkle of salt and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well-coated. Let this marinate for about 30 minutes. This step infuses significant flavor into the chicken and sets the stage for the whole dish.
- In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook it in the skillet for about 6–8 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and golden brown. Set the chicken aside on a cutting board. After it cools a bit, slice it into strips.
- In the same skillet, add a bit of butter. Then toss in the finely chopped shallots and sauté until they are translucent. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until tender. Now pour in the heavy cream, allowing it to simmer gently. Stir in the peas, crushed red pepper flakes, and garlic powder. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens.
- Meanwhile, cook the fresh fettuccine in a pot of boiling salted water. Follow the package instructions—usually, fresh pasta cooks quite quickly. Drain it well and toss it in the skillet with the sauce, letting the pasta absorb the flavors.
- Now it’s time to bring it all together. Add your sliced chicken to the pasta and sauce mixture. Gently toss everything, ensuring each strand of pasta is coated with creamy goodness.
- Finish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for pops of freshness.
Notes
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients. They make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Don’t Rush the Sauce: Let the sauce simmer for a bit for better flavor depth. Good things take time.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust salt and pepper to your preference throughout the cooking process.
- Experiment with Herbs: Try adding thyme or oregano to diversify the flavor profile.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed right after cooking for that creamy pasta goodness.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Carrabba’s Pasta Carrabba is not just a meal; it’s an inviting bowl of comfort. This recipe brings together a tantalizing blend of flavors and textures that will impress anyone at your table.
Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or a quiet night in, this dish embodies the spirit of Italian dining—simple, vibrant, and utterly delicious. I hope you give it a try and enjoy every delightful bite as much as I have. Happy cooking!
