Are you craving a flavorful and satisfying meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Chicken Spicy Spaghetti recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a delicious blend of tender chicken, spicy tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked spaghetti, all coming together to create a healthy and exciting dinner the whole family will love. Forget complicated recipes; this easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking, even for beginner cooks. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
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Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
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Sauté the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, red pepper flakes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Add the cooked spaghetti and toss to coat everything evenly. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the level of spiciness. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Add Veggies: Boost the nutritional value and flavor by adding vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the sauce.
- Creamy Chicken Spicy Spaghetti: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side salad and crusty bread for a truly satisfying dinner.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a delicious and balanced meal, but the exact nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. A general estimate for one serving is around 400-500 calories, with a moderate amount of protein and carbohydrates.
This Chicken Spicy Spaghetti recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor. It's a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights, a healthy meal choice, and a testament to the joy of homemade cooking. Enjoy this delicious dish, and remember to adapt it to your taste preferences! It's one of the best recipes you'll find for a simple yet satisfying meal.