Ready in: 30 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Stovetop · Storage: Up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Quick Answer
This Spicy Chicken Pasta combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a zesty tomato sauce for a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any cozy gathering.As the vibrant autumn leaves begin to fall here in New York City, I can feel the festive atmosphere creeping in. Whether you're preparing for an intimate Thanksgiving dinner or planning the perfect Christmas gathering, the comfort of a hearty pasta dish can never be underestimated. Enter my Spicy Chicken Pasta, a dish that effortlessly blends flavors, simple preparation, and a hint of warmth-perfect for this cozy season.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With simple preparation and only a few steps, you can have a delicious meal in under 30 minutes.
- Flavorful Comfort: The combination of spicy chicken, sautéed veggies, and pasta creates a warm, hearty dish perfect for chilly evenings.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level to your liking or add additional ingredients like cream for a richer sauce.
- Leftover Friendly: Enjoy tasty leftovers that can be easily reheated, making dinner the next day a breeze.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and nutrients from fresh vegetables and herbs, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create a delicious Spicy Chicken Pasta.
Proteins
- 2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
Pasta
- 8 oz penne pasta
Vegetables
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 green bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnishes
- Fresh basil (for garnish)
- Parmesan cheese (for serving)
How to Make Spicy Chicken Pasta (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps to prepare your Spicy Chicken Pasta in no time.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook it until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. The moment the pasta is done, drain it but reserve a cup of its cooking water-this starchy liquid will add creaminess to your pasta sauce!
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika. Sear the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes. The smell of sautéing onions is such a delightful prelude! Toss in the red and green bell peppers; their vibrant hues will brighten your dish. Cook until they are tender, around 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, ensuring not to burn it-this step is crucial for that deep flavor.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Pour in the can of diced tomatoes along with the chili flakes and mix everything together. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the cooked penne and sliced chicken back into the skillet. Toss well to coat every piece of pasta in this aromatic sauce. If you want to kick up the heat, you can add more chili flakes at this point.
Step 6: Serve
Plate the dish and finish with freshly chopped basil and a generous grating of Parmesan cheese. This step is where the dish really shines, with the cheese melting into the fragrant sauce-trust me; it's the perfect finishing touch!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Always aim for al dente, as the pasta will continue cooking once it's added to the sauce.
- Burning the Garlic: Garlic can go from aromatic to bitter in a heartbeat. Keep a close eye on it!
- Not Using Enough Salt: Don't underestimate the power of salt in pasta water and seasoning. It elevates the flavors significantly.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- For a creamier sauce, stir in a dollop of cream or cheese after mixing in the chicken and pasta.
- If you're a fan of spice, consider adding fresh sliced jalapeños along with the sautéed vegetables.
- This dish can easily be made dairy-free by omitting the cheese and using nutritional yeast as a topping.
Variations
- Substitute penne pasta with any pasta shape you prefer.
- Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different protein option.
- Incorporate additional vegetables such as zucchini or mushrooms.
- Add a splash of white wine for an extra depth of flavor.
How to Serve
- Plate the dish warm and garnish with freshly chopped basil.
- Offer grated Parmesan cheese at the table for individual servings.
- Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Pair with a light white wine to complement the spice.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and sauté the vegetables ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, add a splash of water to the skillet and gently warm over medium heat until heated through.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
This recipe quickly became a favorite in my home, as the combination of spicy and savory flavors warms you from the inside out. It's an excellent way to feed a crowd or simply enjoy a comforting meal on a chilly evening.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 bowl
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~450 calories · 30g protein · 60g carbs · 12g fat
Recipe by:
Spicy Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook it until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain, reserving a cup of cooking water.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Let rest before slicing into thin strips.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes. Add the sliced bell peppers and cook for 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in the can of diced tomatoes with chili flakes and simmer for 5 minutes. Adjust thickness with reserved pasta water if necessary.
- Add the cooked penne and sliced chicken to the skillet, tossing well to coat. Adjust spice with more chili flakes if desired.
- Plate the dish and garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use whole wheat pasta for this recipe?
Yes, whole wheat pasta works well and adds extra fiber to the dish. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary slightly.
2. How can I make this recipe spicier?
If you're looking for more heat, you can increase the amount of chili flakes or add fresh sliced jalapeños during the sautéing process.
3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Simply store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
4. What can I use instead of chicken?
You can substitute the chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even a mix of vegetables for a vegetarian option.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water to prevent stickiness.
