Cheesy Chicken & Chorizo Ravioli: A Flavorful Delight

Are you looking for a dish that is bursting with flavor and sure to impress your family and friends? Look no further than this Cheesy Chicken & Chorizo Ravioli! This delightful recipe combines tender chicken, spicy chorizo, and a rich blend of cheeses, all encased in delicious homemade or store-bought ravioli. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, this dish is not only mouthwatering but also easy to prepare. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (about 140g)
• 4 oz chorizo sausage, removed from casing and crumbled (about 115g)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese (about 240g)
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (about 60g)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (about 25g)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp salt (about 2g)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper (about 2g)
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning (about 1g)

For the Ravioli:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (about 240g)
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 tsp salt (about 2g)
• Water, as needed

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil (about 30ml)
• 1 cup heavy cream (about 240ml)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (about 50g)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Ravioli Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and crack the eggs into it. Gradually mix the flour into the eggs using a fork until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, crumbled chorizo, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined.
3. Roll Out the Dough: After resting, divide the dough into four pieces. Roll out one piece at a time on a floured surface until it’s about 1/16 inch thick. Keep the other pieces covered to prevent drying.
4. Fill the Ravioli: Cut the rolled dough into rectangles of your desired size (about 3x4 inches). Place a teaspoon of filling in the center of half of the rectangles. Brush the edges with water, then fold over to create a pocket. Press to seal, removing any air. Repeat with remaining dough and filling.
5. Cook the Ravioli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the ravioli and cook for about 4-5 minutes or until they float to the surface. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
6. Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
7. Combine and Serve: Add the cooked ravioli to the sauce, gently tossing to coat. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought ravioli?

Yes! If you’re short on time, feel free to use store-bought ravioli. Just add the filling and sauce as directed.

2. What can I substitute for chorizo?

If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute the chorizo with cooked Italian sausage or omit it altogether for a vegetarian version.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

4. Can I freeze the ravioli?

Yes! To freeze, place uncooked ravioli on a baking sheet in a single layer until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be cooked straight from frozen; just add a couple of minutes to the cooking time.

5. What are some variations I can try?

You can customize the filling by adding spinach, mushrooms, or different types of cheese. For the sauce, try adding sun-dried tomatoes or a splash of white wine for extra flavor.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Chicken & Chorizo Ravioli recipe is a fantastic way to bring a taste of Italy to your dinner table. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Gather your ingredients and enjoy the cooking process, knowing that a delicious meal awaits you!