Spicy Chicken Pasta

Indulge in the tantalizing taste of Spicy Chicken Pasta, a dish that packs a punch with every bite. This recipe takes the classic combination of chicken and pasta to new heights by infusing it with bold spices and rich flavors. Perfect for spice enthusiasts and pasta lovers alike, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Plus, with options for keto and low-carb versions, everyone can enjoy this fiery feast.

Ingredients:

• 1 (16 ounce) box linguine pasta
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, butterflied and cut in half to produce 4 thin chicken breasts
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 1 small yellow onion, minced
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
• 2 (14.5 ounce) cans fire-roasted tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, optional garnish
• Finely chopped basil, optional garnish
• Chopped parsley, optional garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook Pasta: Cook the linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Season Chicken: In a small bowl, mix together Italian seasoning and chili powder. Rub the spice mixture onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
3. Cook Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Prepare Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add minced onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add Tomatoes and Stock: Stir in fire-roasted tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, and chili flakes. Pour in chicken stock and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
7. Add Cream: Pour in heavy cream and stir until well combined. Let the sauce simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
8. Slice Chicken: While the sauce is simmering, slice the cooked chicken breasts into thin strips.
9. Combine: Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet with the sauce, tossing gently to coat everything evenly.
10. Garnish and Serve: Serve the spicy chicken pasta hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, and parsley, if desired.

Cook’s Notes and Variations:

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder and chili flakes according to your preference for heat. For a milder version, reduce the amount of chili powder and omit the chili flakes.
• Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier sauce, you can increase the amount of heavy cream or add a splash of milk to achieve the desired consistency.
• Protein Swap: Feel free to substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different twist on this dish.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer in this recipe. Penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti would all work well.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Cook the pasta and chicken just before serving, then reheat the sauce and combine everything together.

Q: Is this dish spicy? A: The level of spiciness can be adjusted to suit your taste. You can increase or decrease the amount of chili powder and chili flakes accordingly.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

• Keto Version: Substitute the linguine pasta with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles to make this dish keto-friendly. Use a low-carb substitute for the fire-roasted tomatoes, such as diced fresh tomatoes or a sugar-free tomato sauce. Additionally, replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or a keto-friendly cream alternative.
• Low-Carb Version: Use a low-carb pasta alternative such as shirataki noodles or spaghetti squash. Reduce the amount of onion and garlic to lower the carb content of the dish. Opt for a lower-carb tomato paste and fire-roasted tomatoes, or use fresh tomatoes instead.

Spicy Chicken Pasta is a mouthwatering dish that combines the bold flavors of seasoned chicken, rich tomato sauce, and al dente pasta. Whether you’re a fan of fiery heat or simply enjoy a flavorful meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings. With its easy-to-follow instructions and customizable options, you can tailor this dish to suit your preferences and dietary needs. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and spice up your dinner routine with this delicious pasta dish tonight!