Spicy Chicken Pasta is a bold and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, spicy tomato sauce, all tossed together with your favorite pasta. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a little heat in their meals, with the spiciness balanced by the creamy texture of the sauce and the savory goodness of the chicken. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners but special enough for a weekend treat. Serve it with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for a complete and delicious meal that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 ounces pasta (such as penne or fettuccine)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed. Sauté the chopped onion until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Add the Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Combine with Pasta: Toss the cooked pasta with the sauce until well coated.
- Serve: Serve the spicy chicken pasta hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.
Enjoy your Spicy Chicken Pasta as a delicious and fiery meal that’s perfect for any pasta lover!