Easy Spicy Chicken Pasta
A quick, flavorful dish of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a spicy sauce, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pieces chicken breasts (sliced into bite-sized pieces) Swap boneless thighs for breasts for a juicier bite.
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli work wonderfully) Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes (preferably with green chilies for extra spice)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes Adjust according to your spice tolerance.
- to taste none Salt and pepper
- for garnish none Fresh basil
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Start by cooking your pasta according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside, saving a cup of pasta water.
Cooking the Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the sliced chicken to the skillet, cooking until browned on all sides, approximately 5–7 minutes.
Combining Ingredients
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with chilies, followed by red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Toss in the cooked pasta, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed for creaminess. Mix until the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.
Serving
- Plate and garnish with fresh basil, serving immediately to enjoy the burst of flavors.
Notes
Tip: A squeeze of fresh lemon just before serving brightens the dish and balances the spices.