Craving a delicious, comforting meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Chicken Marinara Pasta recipe is a family favorite, perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish packed with flavor, making it one of the best recipes for homemade cooking. Forget takeout – this easy recipe is healthier and tastes infinitely better. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner routine!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 15 oz can tomato sauce
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lb pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken cubes generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld. This step is key to developing a rich and delicious marinara sauce.
Step 4: Combine and Cook Pasta
Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir to combine with the sauce. Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the chicken and marinara sauce. Toss to coat evenly. Stir in the Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For even more flavor, marinate the chicken in Italian dressing for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when browning the chicken. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure the chicken browns properly and doesn’t steam.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. You can add more red pepper flakes for extra heat or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese at the end.
Variations:
- Veggie Boost: Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the sauce along with the onions and garlic.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier dish.
- Cheese Please: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients and portion size. However, a single serving of this dish is generally a good source of protein and provides a decent amount of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables and tomatoes. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator and input your exact ingredients and portion sizes.
This quick and easy chicken marinara pasta recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes that are simple to make. It’s a healthy meal option, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, and a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and best recipes. Enjoy!