Next time you cook, make pasta with chicken like this and you will not regret it. This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner that you can make in just one pan. It’s a great option for a busy day when you want something tasty and satisfying without spending too much time in the kitchen. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious meal that your family will love.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 white onion, chopped
- 500 grams chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon paprika (regular, smoked, or spicy)
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 can of corn, drained
- 200 milliliters water
- 2 tablespoons tomato sauce (or mustard, cream cheese, or ketchup)
- 250 grams pasta (any type you prefer)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- Hot water (as needed)
Instructions:
- Sauté the Onion: Start by heating a pan with olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped white onion and sauté until it becomes soft and golden. Stir frequently to avoid burning the onion. Once your kitchen starts to smell wonderfully of onion, you’re ready to move on to the next step.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the cubed chicken breast to the pan. Stir and mix the chicken well with the sautéed onion. Cook the chicken until it changes color and starts to dry out, ensuring it’s cooked through without burning by maintaining medium to low heat.
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken with one tablespoon each of salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir and mix well until the chicken is evenly coated with the seasonings. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your preference or add additional spices like smoked or spicy paprika for extra flavor.
- Add Vegetables and Liquid: Add the chopped tomatoes and the can of corn (drained) to the pan. Pour in 200 milliliters of water and stir everything together. Cook the mixture for about 10 minutes, allowing the water to reduce and the flavors to meld.
- Incorporate the Sauce: Add two tablespoons of tomato sauce to the pan. This step can be customized by using mustard, cream cheese, or ketchup instead, depending on your taste. Stir well to distribute the sauce evenly.
- Cook the Pasta: Add 250 grams of your preferred pasta to the pan. Stir the pasta well with all the ingredients, ensuring it’s well-coated with the sauce. Add hot water to the pan to help cook the pasta more quickly. Continue to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Finishing Touches: Once the pasta is cooked to your desired texture, the dish is practically ready. Add a generous amount of chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a fresh finish. Stir to combine.
- Serve and Enjoy: Turn off the heat and serve a generous portion of the chicken pasta on a plate. This dish is perfect for any time of year—warm it up for a comforting winter meal or let it cool slightly for a refreshing summer dish. Pair it with a glass of juice or your favorite beverage. Bon appétit!
Tips and Variations:
- Seasonings: Customize the seasonings to your liking. Try adding garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning for additional flavor.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to the dish.
- Cheese: For a cheesy twist, sprinkle grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese over the top before serving.
- Creamy Version: For a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese towards the end of cooking.
Nutritional Benefits:
This chicken pasta recipe provides a balanced meal with protein from the chicken, carbohydrates from the pasta, and vitamins from the vegetables. It’s a wholesome dish that can be adjusted to fit various dietary needs by using whole wheat pasta or adding more vegetables.
Storage:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent the pasta from drying out.
This quick and delicious chicken pasta recipe is perfect for busy days when you need a tasty meal without the hassle. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful seasonings, and pasta makes for a satisfying dish that everyone will enjoy. Try this recipe at home and enjoy the wonderful flavors it brings to your table. Bon appétit!
This recipe offers a simple yet flavorful approach to cooking chicken pasta. Share this recipe with your friends and family, and enjoy the convenience of a one-pan meal. Happy cooking!
