Chicken creme fraiche pasta

Frying pan - Go for this versatile AND affordable one, that's also non-stick and anti-scratch. See more details here at Amazon.

Colander - This one is designed with heavy-duty handles and self-draining solid ring base. You can find more details here at Amazon.

A special spoon for serving pasta can also be useful - Wilko has a well-priced spaghetti server to make taking it out of the saucepan much easier - see more details here.

Can you use crème fraiche to marinate chicken?

Yes, you can use crème fraiche to marinate chicken. The creamy texture of crème fraiche helps to tenderise the chicken while infusing it with flavour. Combine crème fraiche with your choice of herbs, spices, and seasonings, and let the chicken marinate for a few hours before cooking.

Can I heat crème fraiche?

Yes, you can heat crème fraiche. It's important to heat it gently to prevent curdling. Gradually add the crème fraiche to your dish, stirring constantly, and avoid boiling it vigorously.

Can you reheat chicken with crème fraiche?

Reheating chicken with crème fraiche is possible, but similar to heating it initially, do so gently over low to medium heat. Stirring frequently will help distribute the heat evenly and prevent curdling. It's advisable to reheat the dish in a pan rather than a microwave for better control.

Don't Overcook the Chicken

When stir-frying the chicken, make sure not to overcook it. Overcooked chicken can become tough and dry, so aim for a golden-brown exterior and tender interior.

Season in Stages

Season the chicken with a pinch of salt while it's cooking and then adjust the seasoning once you've added the creme fraiche and pasta. This helps ensure that the flavours are well-balanced throughout the dish.

Choose Quality Ingredients

Since this dish relies on simple flavours, using high-quality ingredients can make a significant difference. Opt for fresh chicken, good-quality creme fraiche, and freshly grated Parmesan for the best results.

Add Fresh Herbs

While parsley is the classic choice for this recipe, feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like basil, tarragon, or chives. Fresh herbs add a burst of colour and a fragrant aroma to the final dish.

Mind the Wine

If using white wine, choose one that you would enjoy drinking. A dry white wine works best for this recipe, as it complements the creamy sauce without adding excessive sweetness.

Gentle Heating

When adding the creme fraiche to the pan, keep the heat gentle. High heat can cause the creme fraiche to curdle, so maintain a medium-low heat and stir constantly to create a smooth sauce.

Chicken Crème Fraiche Paprika

To introduce a smoky and slightly spicy note, sprinkle smoked paprika over the chicken while stir-frying. This variation adds a unique depth of flavour that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.

• Sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika over the chicken as you stir-fry it. The smoky aroma and subtle spiciness of paprika add a new dimension to the dish. For an even deeper flavour, consider using both sweet and smoked paprika.
• Start with a small amount of paprika and adjust according to your spice preference. Remember that paprika can quickly become overpowering, so a little goes a long way.

Chicken Crème Fraiche Curry

Turn this recipe into a creamy and aromatic curry delight.

• Toast the dry spices briefly in the pan to release their flavours before adding the chicken. This technique enhances the curry's complexity. When adding the coconut milk, do so gradually, as its thickness can vary from brand to brand.
• As you sauté the chicken, add a blend of curry spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. After adding the creme fraiche, introduce a splash of coconut milk for a rich and luscious curry sauce.

Chicken Crème Fraiche Mushroom

Elevate the dish's heartiness by sautéing sliced mushrooms alongside the chicken.

• To enhance the mushroom flavour, deglaze the pan with a small amount of white wine or chicken stock after cooking the mushrooms.
• Use a mix of mushroom varieties like cremini, shiitake, and oyster for a diverse texture and flavour profile. Sauté the mushrooms until they release their moisture and turn golden brown for the best taste.

Chicken Crème Fraiche and Spinach

Introduce a dose of nutrition by tossing in fresh spinach leaves when you add the creme fraiche. The spinach wilts into the sauce, contributing both colour and nutrients to the dish.

• Wash and pat dry the spinach leaves before adding them to the pan.
• Stir the spinach gently until it's just wilted, as overcooking can cause it to become mushy and lose its vibrant green colour.

Chicken Crème Fraiche and Lemon

Squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice into the sauce to brighten up the flavours. The lemon's tanginess cuts through the richness of the creme fraiche, creating a well-rounded taste.

•  Add the lemon juice gradually and taste as you go to achieve the desired level of tanginess. You can also zest some lemon peel over the finished dish for an extra burst of citrus aroma.