Spicy chicken on a bed of pasta

Spicy Chicken on a Bed of Pasta: A Delicious and Comforting Recipe

If you're tired of the usual side dishes and want to bring a touch of creativity to your plate, then the recipe for spicy chicken on a bed of pasta is the perfect choice. This is a combination of flavors that will pleasantly surprise you, and its simple preparation makes it ideal for any occasion. Whether it's a family dinner or a meal with friends, this main course will surely be appreciated. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 2-3

Necessary ingredients:

- 1/2 boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 medium onion
- 1 cube of butter (about 80 g) + 1 teaspoon for pasta
- 3 whole tomatoes in their own juice (or 400 g canned tomatoes)
- 1 small cup of tomato juice (about 150 ml)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 small piece of chili (or more, depending on your preference)
- A handful of pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish

Recipe preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the chicken breast well under cold running water. Make sure to pat it dry with a kitchen towel to remove excess water. Cut it into thicker strips, lengthwise.

2. Chopping the onion and tomatoes: Peel the onion, wash it, and chop it finely. If you prefer a less intense texture, you can sauté it a bit first. Remove the canned tomatoes from their packaging and cut them into cubes. If using fresh tomatoes, make sure they are well-ripened for optimal flavor.

3. Sauté the onion and tomatoes: In a deep skillet, melt the cube of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and diced tomatoes, then let them cook for 2-3 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent.

4. Add the chicken: Pour the chicken strips into the skillet, stirring well to coat them in the sauce. Cover the skillet with a lid and let them simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes. You will notice how the chicken changes color and becomes juicier.

5. Season: After 10 minutes, add the tomato juice and chopped chili. You can adjust the amount of chili depending on how spicy you want the dish. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Continue cooking for another 10 minutes or until the chicken is well-cooked.

6. Boil the pasta: In a separate pot, add water and a little salt and bring it to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, between 10 and 15 minutes, until al dente.

7. Mix the pasta: When the pasta is ready, drain it and add a teaspoon of butter, mixing well to coat it evenly. This will give it a rich flavor and creamy texture.

8. Serving: On a deep plate, place a bed of pasta, and on top add the spicy chicken with sauce. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch of flavor and color.

9. Serving tip: This recipe pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a glass of dry white wine, which will complement the flavors of the main dish.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Chicken breast is an excellent source of protein, while pasta provides complex carbohydrates essential for energy. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, and chili helps boost metabolism.

Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 kcal, depending on the type of pasta used and the amount of butter.

Possible variations:
- You can add vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to enrich the dish.
- Replace the pasta with a whole grain option for extra fiber.
- Experiment with spices like oregano or basil to diversify the flavors.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use turkey instead of chicken? Yes, it’s a healthy and tasty alternative!
- How can I make this recipe less spicy? You can reduce the amount of chili or omit it completely.

This spicy chicken on a bed of pasta recipe brings a touch of creativity and flavor to your meals. Every bite is an explosion of flavors, and its simple preparation makes it ideal for any occasion. So, enjoy cooking and savoring this delicious dish! Bon appétit!