Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and easy weeknight dinner? Look no further! This Rasta Pasta Chicken recipe is bursting with vibrant Caribbean flavors and is surprisingly simple to make. It's a complete one-pan meal, minimizing cleanup time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this delightful combination of tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta, all bathed in a creamy, spicy, and tangy sauce. This recipe is a fantastic example of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas, perfect for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all levels.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 lb pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli work well)
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (13.5 oz) can coconut milk
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and bell peppers and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Add the cubed chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Season generously with salt, pepper, and half of the Jamaican jerk seasoning.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained), coconut milk, chicken broth, allspice, nutmeg, and the remaining jerk seasoning. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 4: Add Pasta and Simmer
Add the pasta to the skillet, stirring to combine everything well. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the pasta is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious and easy Rasta Pasta Chicken!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Add more veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli florets, zucchini, or carrots.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
- Creamier sauce: Add a splash of heavy cream for an even richer and creamier sauce.
- Customize your spices: Experiment with different spice blends to create your own unique flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This Rasta Pasta Chicken recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and best recipes. It's a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a quick dinner or a casual get-together. The vibrant colors and delicious flavors will make it a family favorite in no time! Enjoy!